Remove OPQZ Ransomware (2021 Decrypt Guide)

OPQZ ransomware decrypt tool is now available

Contents

OPQZ ransomware decrypt tool is now available
Software cracks are the primary STOP/DJVU distribution tools
Remove OPQZ ransomware and decrypt your files
Decrypt OPQZ files
Frequently Asked Questions

OPQZ ransomware (also called as OPQZ file virus) is a malicious file-encrypting virus from DJVU ransomware family. The virus maliciously modifies victim’s personal files and appends .opqz file extension to them. Once the malicious encryption is completed, the virus creates and saves _readme.txt ransom notes, asking the victim to contact the attackers via helpdatarestore@firemail.cc, helpmanager@mail.ch emails within 3 days and pay $490 in Bitcoin. If paid later, the ransom price increases to $980. The ransomware is extremely dangerous because it carries AZORULT malware alongside it.

Once activated on the target Windows computer, OPQZ virus hides as a background process. First of all, it connects to its Command&Control (C&C or C2) server to obtain an individual encryption key for the victim. The virus also displays a fake Windows update installer on the screen in a form of a prompt. The fake installer runs as updatewin.exe process, asking not to turn off the computer.

In the meantime, the ransomware scans the whole computer system, identifies target files and encrypts them. The process makes victim’s documents, photos, archives, spreadsheets, videos and other files impossible to open. To explain how the encryption can be reversed, the virus leaves notes on Desktop and other locations on the computer.

The ransomware uses scare tactics to convince the victim pay a ransom to recover opqz file type data.

_readme.txt note demands money or else

OPQZ ransomware leaves _readme.txt ransom notes after the attack so that the victim could read the message from the cybercriminals who created the virus. The ransom note explains that the victim shouldn’t worry as files can be recovered; except there is one condition to meet. The victim has to contact the attackers and pay the specified ransom ($490 or $980). The lower price point applies if the victim contacts the attackers and pays within 3 days starting from the attack timestamp. Otherwise, the ransom price doubles.

Creators of this virus suggest sending one small encrypted file to them via helpdatarestore@firemail.cc or helpmanager@mail.ch emails and test the DJVU decryption tool that they offer purchasing. The victim also needs to send the private ID included in the _readme.txt ransom note.

Ransom note left by the OPQZ ransomware demands money.

If you have been affected by this ransomware and now you cannot open files with the specified extension, we encourage you not to pay the ransom. By doing so, you improve cybercriminals’s business and support their further operations. By paying them, you allow them to live the life they want by continuing to ruin computer users work, study life and personal memories. Besides, .opqz decryption for offline encryption variants is now AVAILABLE.

Threat Summary

Name	OPQZ ransomware
Type	Ransomware
Version	216th version of STOP/DJVU
Ransom note	_readme.txt
Ransom price	$490 or $980
Extension	.opqz file extension
Symptoms	The ransomware displays fake Windows update prompt while it runs data-encrypting processes in the background. Once encrypted, files have new extension added to the original one, and cannot be opened. Various folders now have _readme.txt ransom notes with a message from cybercriminals.
Contact emails	helpdatarestore@firemail.cc (primary email), helpmanager@mail.ch (secondary)
Associated processes	1A3E.TMP.EXE
Distribution	Spreads via illegal file sharing platforms, typically hides in software cracks, movies, or other illegally distributed copyrighted content
Removal	Try to remove using software like RESTORO
Decryption	You can decrypt .opqz files if your key in C:/SystemID/PersonalID.txt ends in t1. Check this decryption guide for more information.

The virus alters Windows HOSTS file to block access to specific websites

OPQZ virus is built with many additional features that other ransomware threats lack. The complex malware is also set to modify victim’s HOSTS file with admin’s rights. This file can be used to block access to specific hosts (IPs) on a computer. In other words, the file can be used to block a domain and responding IP so that the victim can no longer open it. Therefore, you might find that you can see some websites in Google search results, but cannot open them no matter what.

The ransomware alters hosts file on Windows to block computer security related websites.

Such technique is most likely used to frustrate the victim even more and scare one as much as possible. With all files gone and Internet not working properly, many victims might fall for the trap and rush to pay the ransom, hoping that it is the only fix. However, please do not worry – you can perform OPQZ virus removal and reverse damage caused to Windows registry using our recommended software – RESTORO.

Ways to recover data

OPQZ ransomware uses extremely strong encryption method. While some people swear by data recovery tools, it never hurts to give them a try. However, the most successful way of recovering encrypted data is using data backups. Sadly, not many people tend to create them regularly, which results in instant data loss.

We strongly recommend checking the information provided in this STOP/DJVU decryption guide. It explains what is online and offline encryption, the differences between them, and prospects to recover data.

You can decrypt OPQZ ransomware now as the tool is already supplemented with the required offline decryption key. Follow the guidelines given there or below the article to recover your files.

Software cracks are the primary STOP/DJVU distribution tools

Ransomware viruses like OPQZ or its previous versions belonging to DJVU family (JOPE, MADO, NPSK, REMK, FOOP, OOSS, TOPI, etc.) are hiding in online downloads that are, to say at least, illegal. They mostly await in a form of peer-to-peer illegal downloads, including, but not limited to:

Illegally copied and distributed movies;
Cracked software or games;
Various illegal software activation tools, such as KMSPico.

Cyber criminals have no shame and leverage the situation when people are looking for entertainment while staying safe at home. Therefore, if you want to stay safe during the COVID-19 quarantine season, consider downloading software, games or movies from legal websites or content streaming platforms (such as Netflix or Amazon Prime).

Remove OPQZ ransomware and decrypt your files

To protect your computer and privacy, please use the guidelines given below for a safe OPQZ ransomware removal. These instructions are prepared by security professionals and ensure a thorough cleanse from malware. We also strongly suggest investing in a good computer security and maintenance software, which comes with data recovery tool – System Mechanic Ultimate Defense.

Once you remove OPQZ ransomware virus, there is still a lot to do. The first thing you should to is change all the passwords for accounts saved in your browser. If you have saved your credit card details in web browser too, contact your bank and inform them about the situation immediately.

Once you’re done with the removal, use the free download link for OPQZ decrypt tool from Emsisoft.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

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:

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RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

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OPQZ ransomware Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove OPQZ ransomware 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 OPQZ ransomware 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, which also includes data recovery software. 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

Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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Disclaimer. This site includes affiliate links. We may earn a small commission by recommending certain products, at no additional cost for you. We only choose quality software and services to recommend.

Decrypt OPQZ files

Fix and open large OPQZ 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 OPQZ 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. OPQZ ransomware is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VYIA, QBAA, FOPA, VTYM, KQGS, XCBG, BPQD (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 OPQZ 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 OPQZ 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 OPQZ 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 OPQZ 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 OPQZ ransomware 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

✓ How can I open .OPQZ files?

You can only open OPQZ files if you have the decryption key, or if you were affected by offline encryption type.

✓ How do I know if my files were encrypted with offline or online encryption?

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.

✓ My files contain very important information (family memories). Every tool I used says it is impossible to decrypt. What should I do?

Please follow the guidances provided by the official OPQZ 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).

✓ I am afraid virus is still in my computer system. What should I do?

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.

✓ I saw several Youtube videos suggesting secret decryption tools. Can I trust them?

Beware of fake OPQZ 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.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

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

REMOVE & PROTECT WITH INTEGO

Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer.

Read full review here.

STEP 2. REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

DOWNLOAD RESTORO

RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them.

Read full review here.

GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more.

OPQZ ransomware Removal Guidelines

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Step 1. Start Windows in Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove the 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, see a video tutorial on how to do it:

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 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 OPQZ ransomware 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 malware removal program. In addition, we suggest trying a combination of INTEGO antivirus (removes malware and protects your PC in real-time) and RESTORO (repairs virus damage to Windows OS files).

REMOVE MALWARE & REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE

1 Step. Get robust antivirus to remove existing threats and enable real-time protection

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2 Step. Repair Virus Damage on Windows Operating System Files

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE

See Full Review

Download RESTORO to scan your system for FREE and detect security, hardware and stability issues. You can use the scan results and try to remove threats manually, or you can choose to get the full version of software to fix detected issues and repair virus damage to Windows OS system files automatically.

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 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.

Alternative software recommendations

Malwarebytes Anti-Malware

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

Norbert Webb

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.