Remove QQPP Ransomware Virus (DECRYPT .qqpp FILES)

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

QQPP ransomware and how it affects files on your computer

Contents

QQPP ransomware and how it affects files on your computer
Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected
Remove QQPP ransomware virus and decrypt locked files
Decrypt QQPP files
Frequently Asked Questions

QQPP ransomware is a malicious computer virus that aims to encrypt all files on the system and make them inaccessible. This threat originates from the infamous STOP/DJVU ransomware family. The malware uses RSA cryptography to lock files and prevent the victim from opening, viewing or editing them, and also appends .qqpp extension to each affected data file. To illustrate the changes, see this example: 1.jpg appears as 1.jpg.qqpp, 2.txt appears as 2.txt.qqpp after the cyberattack. To explain what has happened, the ransomware drops _readme.txt file in several computer folders. This file is widely known as a “ransom note.”

The way this ransomware modifies files can be reversed only with a help of a private decryption key which is in possession of cybercriminals. Therefore, they recommend buying it from them, or, in other words, paying a ransom.

What’s explained in the ransom note

The ransom note dropped by the cybercriminals starts with a statement asking for the computer user’s attention, and then explains what has been done to the data stored on the computer. The _readme.txt note states that the victim can still restore all of encrypted data, however, one has to pay a ransom to the ransomware operators. The pricing of the decryption tool is then introduced: according to the note, it costs $980, but if the victim reaches out to the attackers within 72 hours, they promise a 50% discount, meaning the QQPP file decryption tool would cost $490.

The note contains two email addresses that belong to the attackers: support@bestyourmail.ch and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc. The criminals recommend writing to them as soon as possible and attaching one encrypted file for test decryption. Additionally, they demand including victim’s Personal ID (a string included in the _readme.txt note). After contacting them, the victim finds out that the ransom can only be paid via cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin) to prevent law enforcement agencies from tracing down the transaction and catching the perpetrators.

We would like to remind ransomware victims that paying the ransom is not a recommended option. The same idea is supported by the FBI. First of all, paying doesn’t mean the attackers will help you to restore data; second, sending money to them helps them to continue their activities. Finally, if you pay up, you might become a target in future malware attacks.

Beware of information-stealing Trojans dropped alongside the ransomware

Analysis of STOP/DJVU ransomware variants shows that these threats usually arrive in tandem with additional malware, such as AZORULT or VIDAR Trojans. Both of these are well-known information stealers capable of grabbing relevant pieces of data, such as passwords, browsing history, cookies and other details and sending them to cybercriminals. With their hands on sensitive data, the perpetrators can continue to blackmail the user, steal one’s accounts and cause similar damage.

Therefore, if you have fallen victim to the described malware, we strongly recommend that you do not delay its removal any longer. To remove QQPP ransomware virus, rely on a trustworthy and genuine antivirus solution. Before you start the removal procedure, you may want to boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking first (see instructions provided below the article). To repair virus damage on Windows OS components, download RESTORO (secure download link).

Ransomware Summary

Name	QQPP Ransomware Virus
Type	Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus
Family	STOP/DJVU
Encryption type	RSA 2048 + Salsa20
Previous versions	CCEO, CCZA, QQMT, QQLC, QQLO, QQRI (find full list here)
Version	546th
Extension	.qqpp
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 .qqpp 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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The screenshot below shows how files encrypted by this ransomware look like.

Ransomware distribution and ways to avoid getting infected

Cybercriminals distribute ransomware-type threats like QQPP virus via malicious email attachments, deceptive online downloads or fake software update tools. Computer users unaware of these deceptive techniques risk to fall victims to malware attacks, especially if they have no antivirus protection with real-time protection feature installed.

The majority of STOP/DJVU ransomware variants are specifically distributed via rogue online sites that claim to provide cracked software versions. These can be downloaded directly or via torrent agents. The perpetrators prey for computer users who are willing to install paid premium software versions for free, despite the risk of getting infected. Unfortunately, once the victim opens the malicious setup.exe file, the malware gets launched and begins corrupting data on the computer.

We advise computer users to always look for needed software content on legitimate and official web pages only. Attempts to bypass license fees will only result in various privacy issues as well as loss of personal or work files.

Another common malware distribution technique that cybercriminals swear by is email spam containing malicious attachments. The crooks often pretend to be representatives of well-known companies that send some important files for the victim. The attachments may be named as regular documents used in daily business communications, for example, invoices, waybills, order summaries or notices of subscription renewal.

Users should be careful and avoid interacting with unsolicited email messages, especially if they urge the user to take action (such as open the attachment and reply to the sender or click on a inserted URL). Moreover, signs such as grammar mistakes, over-general greeting line (such as dear valued customer) and weirdly aligned and low-quality logos in the email should not be ignored as they signal about malevolent intentions of the sender.

Finally, computer users can install malware disguised as a software update. The crooks often promote these via shady ad networks. Such ads usually falsely state there is a problem with user’s computer and one should update certain programs or install a suspicious program that can allegedly solve the issues with the computer. Sadly, installing such fake updates or programs without double-checking the source can lead to a severe malware or spyware infection.

Remove QQPP ransomware virus and decrypt locked files

In order to protect the compromised computer, users should remove QQPP ransomware virus and related malware as soon as possible. This can be effectively done with a help of a robust antivirus solution of your choice. However, we recommend booting the computer in Safe Mode with Networking first as explained in the tutorial below.

Once QQPP virus removal is completed, we also recommend downloading this tool – RESTORO and using it to identify and repair virus-damaged Windows OS files. For data recovery, we strongly recommend using data backups, and if you did not have any, consider reading about data recovery methods explained in this guide for STOP/DJVU ransomware victims.

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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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QQPP 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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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

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

If you're looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek's Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

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 QQPP files

Fix and open large QQPP 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 QQPP 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. QQPP Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like CCEO, CCZA, QQMT, QQLC, QQLO, QQRI (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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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 .QQPP files?

You can only open QQPP 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 QQPP 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 QQPP 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.