Remove QQLC Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .qqlc FILES)

remove QQLC ransomware virus and learn how to decrypt or repair files with .qqlc extension (free guide)

QQLC ransomware aims to put a lock on your personal files

Contents

QQLC ransomware aims to put a lock on your personal files
Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected
Remove QQLC Ransomware Virus and Recover Your Files
Decrypt QQLC files
Frequently Asked Questions

QQLC is a ransomware-type computer virus that is used by cybercriminals to encrypt files on infected systems. Recognized as a variant of STOP/DJVU, this virus appends .qqlc extension to every name of a file it locks. To illustrate, files initially saved as 1.jpg or 2.txt will appear as 1.jpg.qqlc and 1.txt.qqlc after being touched by the malware. In addition, this virus drops text notes dubbed _readme.txt in computer folders to deliver a message from the cybercriminals.

This ransomware variant makes victim’s personal files inaccessible and causes frustration for the computer user. It aims to extort the user by offering to sell software that can decrypt one’s files back to their initial state and threatens that there is no other way to get files back.

Contents of the ransom note

The _readme.txt note is known as a “ransom note,” which is a file often dropped by ransomware-type computer threats. It explains what has happened to files on the computer and provides the cybercriminals’ offer. The attackers explain that the victim can still restore all of the data, however, one has to pay a specific price for it.

According to the note, the default ransom amount the attackers demand is $980, however the crooks may provide a 50% discount and lower the price to $490 if the victim writes to the attackers within 3 days (72 hours) starting from the infection timestamp. The only way to contact the attackers is to write a message to them via email addresses dropped in the ransom note: support@bestyourmail.ch or datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.

It is typical for ransomware operators to promise a “guarantee” that files will be recovered after the victim pays the ransom. For this matter, the note suggests sending one encrypted file via email to the attackers and expect a decrypted file version in return.

In general, cybersecurity professionals recommend following FBI’s guidance to ransomware victims and the main idea of it is not paying the ransom to cybercriminals. It hardly solves the problem: even after paying computer user may not recover the data (despite the perpetrators’ promises to do so), it funds further malicious actions, plus it makes the victim a potential target in future attacks due to crooks’ tendency to target those who are willing to pay up.

Beware of additional threats dropped by the virus

Computer users hit by this virus should be aware that variants from this ransomware strain usually drop information-stealing Trojans on the system. Two of the spotted ones in recent attacks are known under names of VIDAR and AZORULT. Both of them are extremely dangerous and can transmit various sensitive data from victim’s computer to the criminals’ servers, including browser-saved passwords, browsing history, cookies and more.

Those who were affected by the described malware are advised to remove QQLC ransomware virus as soon as possible. To ensure that all damaging pieces of software are detected, we recommend using a genuine version of a reputable antivirus to scan and cleanse the computer system automatically. However, users should first boot the system in Safe Mode with Networking as explained in the tutorial below this article. Afterward, you may want to download RESTORO (secure and official download link) to identify and repair virus damage to Windows OS files. This tool is trusted and recommended by our team.

Ransomware Summary

Name	QQLC Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	VVEO, VVEW, VVYU, CCYU, CCEO, CCZA (find full list here)
Version	544th
Extension	.qqlc
Cybercriminal emails	support@bestyourmail.ch, datarestorehelp@airmail.cc
Additional malware dropped	Azorult or Vidar Trojan
Damage	The ransomware uses encryption to maliciously modify all files on the PC and marks their original names with .qqlc 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, League of Legends.
Detection names	Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.PAL!MTB (Microsoft), Trojan.Crypt (A) (Emsisoft), HEUR:Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.gen (Kaspersky), Trojan.GenericKD.47850419 (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. To repair virus damage on Windows OS files, consider scanning with RESTORO (secure download link).

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Scan your system for FREE to 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. Includes Avira spyware/malware detection & removal engine.

The ransomware locks each file and appends new extension as shown in the screenshot below.

Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected

There are many ways to deliver ransomware to targets, and sometimes the cybercriminals use a combination of several methods to achieve a greater success in attacks. When it comes to STOP/DJVU ransomware family, these threats usually await for victims in rogue websites claiming to provide cracked software versions and other illegal downloads. Once the victim downloads the file (either directly via link or via torrent agent) and launches the alleged setup, the system gets compromised instantly.

Another common ransomware distribution method is email spam with attached files. Cybercriminals name these attachments as regular documents used in day-to-day communications, for example, invoices, waybills, order summaries and so on. Unfortunately, the crooks exploit file formats that support scripting. When such features are put to bad use, users can get infected simply by launching a specifically crafted document.

Finally, the cybercriminals may distribute the ransomware via deceptive ads promoting fake software updates. These ads usually appear quite aggressive and claim there is a problem with your computer. The downloaded installer usually contains several programs to install (even the alleged update sometimes), however, some of these can be very harmful.

To avoid getting infected by ransomware, we recommend users to download software from trusted and official sources only and be cautious when checking email. On top of that, a good antivirus with 24/7 real-time protection feature should be active at all times on your computer.

Remove QQLC Ransomware Virus and Recover Your Files

Users whose computers were compromised by this threat should remove QQLC ransomware virus and any remaining threats as soon as they can. Please follow the tutorial provided below. It explains how to set up your computer in a secure environment for malware removal. Next, download and run a chosen antivirus solution and get rid of malware rooted in your computer.

Additional tip is to download a useful software known as RESTORO (secure download link). It can identify and repair various malware damage to Windows OS files and keep your computer at peak performance.

After taking care of your computer’s security and completing QQLC virus removal, we strongly recommend that you change all of the passwords used on the compromised computer. You can recover all of your files if you had a backup, or you can try tips to repair/decrypt your files as explained in this guide.

OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND

Our team recommends removing malware using a professional antivirus software and then using the following tool to repair virus damage to Windows system files:

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE TO YOUR COMPUTER

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

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QQLC 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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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, 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

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System Mechanic Ultimate Defense

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Decrypt QQLC files

Fix and open large QQLC 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 QQLC 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. QQLC Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like VVEO, VVEW, VVYU, CCYU, CCEO, CCZA (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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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

✓ How can I open .QQLC files?

You can only open QQLC 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 QQLC 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 QQLC 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

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.