MZQW ransomware attacks files on the computer to encrypt them
Contents
MZQW ransomware is a computer virus designed to lock files on target computer by encrypting them. It is a variant of STOP/DJVU ransomware that appends .mzqw extension to encrypted files. For example, files named 1.jpg or 2.txt will be renamed into 1.jpg.mzqw and 2.txt.mzqw after the cyberattack. Furthermore, the malware will create duplicates of a ransom note and save them as _readme.txt files in various computer folders. These notes urge the victim to contact the cybercriminals and pay a ransom for file decryption tool. In addition, the ransomware launcher often carries information-stealing Trojans alongside it.
The purpose of encrypting victim’s files is to make them inaccessible. Once MZQW virus encrypts a file and appends an extra extension to its name, such file becomes unusable. Whenever a victim attempts to open one of such, the computer will start asking to choose a program to open the file with. Unfortunately, none of the programs will able to read and open the file now that it is encrypted. The only ways to recover files is either to use a data decryption tool, or use data backups created prior to the cyberattack.
The ransom note explains cybercriminals’ intentions
The ransom note provided by the malware operators suggest that locked data can only be restored with the help of MZQW decryption tool and private key kept by them. In order to obtain it, the victim is asked to pay a ransom. The amount of money demanded from the victim depends on how quickly one writes an email to the criminals. The note contains two email addresses – support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.
The criminals specify that if victim contacts them within 72 hours, they will provide a 50% discount on the initial ransom amount, which is $980, and lower the price of decryption tools to $490. They will later clarify that ransom should be paid via cryptocurrency as such payment method helps them to remain anonymous and prevents law enforcement agencies from tracking them down.
The note also suggests that the attackers can decrypt one encrypted file for free. In order to use this “test decryption” service, the victim should send one file to them as an email attachment. The crooks also ask to include victim’s Personal ID in the message. This string is provided at the end of the _readme.txt file.
Although it might seem tempting to do as criminals say, especially after losing access to important data on a computer, paying a ransom is not a good choice. According to FBI, NCSC and other reputable organizations, paying money to cybercriminals does not guarantee data recovery and only motivates them to continue what they’re doing. Moreover, it makes you an easy target and they might attempt to attack you again or continue to blackmail in hopes to extort more money.
If your computer was hit by the described malware, it is highly recommended to remove MZQW ransomware virus without any hesitation. The best way to do it is by using a trustworthy antivirus software. The guide below the article explains how to remove threats from your computer safely. If you’re in need for AV recommendations, our team strongly advises using INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal. You may also want to download RESTORO to identify and repair Windows OS files damaged by malware.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | MZQW Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here) |
| Version | 635th |
| Extension | .mzqw |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc |
| Additional malware dropped | Azorult, RedLine or Vidar |
| Damage | The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .mzqw extension. Ransom notes called as _readme.txt will be dropped in every computer folder. This piece of malware usually drags VIDAR Stealer alongside it and also eliminates VSS from the system. On top of that, it tends to modify Windows HOSTS file to restrict computer user’s access to cybersecurity-related websites online. |
| Ransom note | _readme.txt |
| Ransom demand | $490-$980 in Bitcoin |
| Distribution | Victims often download this ransomware along illegal torrent downloads, cracked software, activators, key generators or tools like KMSPico. |
| Known software cracks to contain this malware | Corel Draw, Tenorshare 4ukey, Adobe Photoshop, Cubase, Adobe Illustrator, Internet Download Manager, Tally, HP/Epson printer drivers, League of Legends. |
| Detection names | Trojan:Win32/Azorult.FW!MTB (Microsoft), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (B) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan.Win32.Scarsi.gen (Kaspersky), Gen:Heur.Mint.Zard.52 (BitDefender), Trojan.MalPack.GS (Malwarebytes), ML.Attribute.HighConfidence (Symantec) see all detection name variations on VirusTotal |
| Removal | Remove ransomware and related malware from your PC using trustworthy software like INTEGO Antivirus. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, download and try RESTORO (secure download link). |
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Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected
Ransomware-type threats like MZQW virus are mostly delivered in a form of deceptive online downloads, for example, illegally distributed software versions (cracks), malicious email attachments and fake software update installers. Computer users should attentively choose online resources to download software from and avoid suspicious websites that urge installing something on a computer.
Since the discussed ransomware variant is part of the STOP/DJVU ransomware family, its primary distribution method should be discussed. Our team have determined that it mainly spreads via pirated software downloads. Cybercriminals actively distribute fake setup files that are advertised as installers for popular software such as Adobe Photoshop/Illustrator, AutoCAD, Wondershare Filmora and others. These files are made available to download via rogue websites and provided either via direct download links or torrent files.
It is advisable to avoid such untrustworthy software download websites as they only focus on spreading malware. Besides, computer users should support legitimate software developers and pay for respective license keys instead of trying to cut corners and expose their computers to dangerous malware.
Another distribution method is email spam. The threat actors usually spread phishing emails that claim the user needs to open attached files and review important information. The attached files are injected with malicious scripts that can infect the computer with malware. Moreover, such phishing emails often warn the target user about a possible problem that needs to be addressed. The aim of attackers is to create a sense of urgency and force the user to act out of fear or curiosity. For example, such emails usually use such misleading claims:
- The email account password has expired and needs to be updated;
- User’s subscription to a specific service has been renewed (one that the user has never signed up for in the first place);
- The government has discovered illegal activities of the user;
- There are some important documents the user needs to view, for example, invoices, order summaries, etc.
It is important to inspect suspicious emails and delete them without interacting with attachments or links included. Some of the most important signs that the email sender has malicious intentions is urgent message tone, grammar mistakes and unfamiliar greeting line. Moreover, it is important to inspect sender’s email address, although it can be spoofed by cybercriminals.
In addition, sometimes cybercriminals bundle malware with software update installers. These may be advertised or uploaded for download into rogue websites. This is why it is important to only download software from trustworthy websites online.
In order to keep your computer protected from malware that may await in various places online, we recommend installing antivirus solution with real-time protection feature. It is no less important to keep your computer’s operating system and installed programs up-to-date. Finally, you should improve safe web browsing habits to avoid exposing your computer to malware.
Remove MZQW ransomware virus and recover your data
If your computer has been compromised by the described file-encrypting virus, now it is time to scan your computer with antivirus. We also recommend booting your PC into Safe Mode with Networking prior to starting the security software. You can find a guide on how to do it below. Besides, a good AV solution will not only remove MZQW ransomware virus remains, but also other malware that was possibly dragged to your computer. We strongly recommend using INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal, in case you’re undecided on which AV solution to trust.
Once malware is removed, we also recommend downloading RESTORO and using it to identify virus damage that could be repaired. Afterward, you can use data backups to restore the majority of encrypted data. If you didn’t create any data backups prior to the cyberattack, we recommend reading this guide for STOP/DJVU ransomware victims to better understand under which circumstances files can be recovered.
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Our team recommends a two-step rescue plan to remove ransomware and other remaining malware from your computer, plus repair caused virus damage to the system:
STEP 1. REMOVE AUTOMATICALLY WITH ROBUST ANTIVIRUS
STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER
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MZQW Ransomware Virus Removal Guidelines
Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking
Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking
Before you try to remove MZQW Ransomware Virus virus, you must start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking. Below, we provide the easiest ways to boot PC in the said mode, but you can find additional ones in this in-depth tutorial on our website – How to Start Windows in Safe Mode. Also, if you prefer a video version of the tutorial, check our guide How to Start Windows in Safe Mode on Youtube.
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- First of all, turn off your PC. Then press the Power button to start it again and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. This launches the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Use arrow keys on the keyboard to navigate down to Safe Mode with Networking option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Open Windows Start menu, then press down the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then select Restart option.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Networking. In this case, it is the F5 key.
Step 2. Remove files associated with the virus
Now, you can search for and remove MZQW Ransomware Virus files. It is very hard to identify files and registry keys that belong to the ransomware virus, Besides, malware creators tend to rename and change them repeatedly. Therefore, the easiest way to uninstall such type of a computer virus is to use a reliable security program such as INTEGO Antivirus. For virus damage repair, consider using RESTORO.
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Method 2. Use System Restore
In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically.
Step 1. Boot Windows in Safe Mode with Command Prompt
Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users
- Shut down your PC. Start it again by pressing the Power button and instantly start pressing F8 button on your keyboard repeatedly in 1-second intervals. You will see Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Using arrow keys on the keyboard, navigate down to Safe Mode with Command Prompt option and press Enter.
Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users
- Launch Windows Start menu, then click the Power button. On your keyboard, press down and hold the Shift key, and then choose Restart option with the mouse cursor.
- This will take you to Windows Troubleshoot screen. Choose Troubleshoot > Advanced Options > Startup Settings > Restart. Tip: If you can't find Startup Settings, click See more recovery options.
- In Startup Settings, press the right key between F1-F9 to enter Safe Mode with Command Prompt. In this case, press F6 key.
Step 2. Start System Restore process
- Wait until system loads and command prompt shows up.
- Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter. Or you can just type %systemroot%system32restorerstrui.exe in command prompt and hit Enter.
- This launches System Restore window. Click Next and then choose a System Restore point created in the past. Choose one that was created before ransomware infection.
- Click Yes to begin the system restoration process.
After restoring the system, we recommend scanning the system with antivirus or anti-malware software. In most cases, there won't be any malware remains, but it never hurts to double-check. In addition, we highly recommend checking ransomware prevention guidelines provided by our experts in order to protect your PC against similar viruses in the future.
Alternative software recommendations
Malwarebytes Anti-Malware
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Decrypt MZQW files
Fix and open large MZQW files easily:
It is reported that STOP/DJVU ransomware versions encrypt only the beginning 150 KB of each file to ensure that the virus manages to affect all files on the system. In some cases, the malicious program might skip some files at all. That said, we recommend testing this method on several big (>1GB) files first.
- Create a copy of encrypted file to a separate folder using Copy > Paste commands.
- Now, right-click the created copy and choose Rename. Select the MZQW extension and delete it. Press Enter to save changes.
- In the prompt asking whether you want to make the changes as file might become unusable, click OK.
- Try opening the file.
STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide
STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. MZQW Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like DARJ DAZX, TYWD, TYCX, TYOS, TYPO, JYWD (find full list here). This means full data decryption is now possible only if you have been affected by offline encryption key. To decrypt your files, you will have to download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP DJVU, a tool created and maintained by a genius security researcher Michael Gillespie.
Note! Please do not spam the security researcher with questions whether he can recover your files encrypted with online key - it is not possible.
In order to test the tool and see if it can decrypt MZQW files, follow the given tutorial.
- Download the decryption tool from Emsisoft.
- Click the little arrow next to your download and choose Show in Folder.
- Now, right-click the file and choose Run as Administrator. If asked, enter administrator's password.
- In UAC window, click Yes.
- Click Yes to agree to software terms in both windows.
- The tool will automatically include C:// disk as a location to decrypt. The file recovery tool will prepopulate the locations to scan, including connected data storage drives or network drives. Click Add folder if you wish to add additional locations.
In Options tab, you can choose to keep encrypted file copies. We recommend leaving this option selected, especially if you do not know if the decryption tool will work. - Click Decrypt to start restoring MZQW files. You will see the progress in the Results tab. Here, you can see messages from the tool, such as whether the decryption procedure is successful, or you need to wait for an update.
You might also be informed that online key was used to encrypt your files. In such case, the decryption tool won't work for you, and the only way to recover your files is to use a data backup.
Meanings of decryptor's messages
The MZQW decryption tool might display several different messages after failed attempt to restore your files. You might receive one of the following messages:
Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [example ID]
This message typically means that there is no corresponding decryption key in the decryptor's database.
No key for New Variant online ID: [example ID]
Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible
This message informs that your files were encrypted with online key, meaning no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair, therefore data recovery without paying the criminals is impossible.
Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]
This ID appears to be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.
If you were informed that an offline key was used, but files could not be restored, it means that the offline decryption key isn't available yet. However, receiving this message is extremely good news, meaning that it might be possible to restore your MZQW extension files in the future. It can take a few months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. We recommend you to follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here. We strongly recommend backing up your encrypted data and waiting.
Report Internet crime to legal departments
Victims of MZQW Ransomware Virus should report the Internet crime incident to the official government fraud and scam website according to their country:
- In the United States, go to the On Guard Online website.
- In Australia, go to the SCAMwatch website.
- In Germany, go to the Bundesamt für Sicherheit in der Informationstechnik website.
- In Ireland, go to the An Garda Síochána website.
- In New Zealand, go to the Consumer Affairs Scams website.
- In the United Kingdom, go to the Action Fraud website.
- In Canada, go to the Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre.
- In India, go to Indian National Cybercrime Reporting Portal.
- In France, go to the Agence nationale de la sécurité des systèmes d’information.
If you can't find an authority corresponding to your location on this list, we recommend using any search engine to look up "[your country name] report cyber crime". This should lead you to the right authority website. We also recommend staying away from third-party crime report services that are often paid. It costs nothing to report Internet crime to official authorities.
Another recommendation is to contact your country's or region’s federal police or communications authority.
Frequently Asked Questions
You can only open MZQW files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.
To figure out whether you were affected by offline encryption, please go to C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt and see if the string inside of it ends in t1. You can also try using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP/DJVU.
Please follow the guidances provided by the official MZQW decryption tools and believe what they say. If they say it is impossible to decrypt, it really is so. There is no magic tool or human capable of decrypting your files hiding somewhere. Encryption is a technique created to be nearly impossible to decrypt without a special private key (held by the criminals).
We advise scanning with anti-virus, anti-malware, malware removal tools or software like RESTORO to eliminate virus damage on the system. If you do not trust using a single tool, try running one after another. However, we do not recommend keeping several security programs on a computer at once as they can interfere with each other's work.
Beware of fake MZQW decryption tools circulating around the web. Cyber criminals are uploading them to various shady websites, also might be promoting them via suspicious Youtube videos. These programs can infect your computer even more heavily (Trojans, miners, etc.). We suggest being extremely cautious around the web. If there will be an official STOP/DJVU decryption tool available, it will be widely discussed in public media.
Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.
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