ZOQW ransomware aims to extort computer users by taking their files hostage
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ZOQW ransomware is a highly dangerous computer virus designed to encrypt all files on the target system. It is a recognized version of STOP/DJVU ransomware that marks affected files with .zoqw extension. To illustrate how files are renamed, see this example: files with names like 1.jpg or 2.docx will be renamed to 1.jpg.zoqw and 2.docx.zoqw after being locked. Once the files are encrypted, the virus drops _readme.txt, widely referred to as ransom note, into each affected data folder.
The aim of this ransomware is to make victim’s owned files inaccessible. Once the victim finds that out and becomes worried, one will find the text notes dropped by the virus that explain the attackers’ intentions. As it turns out, the criminals have ZOQW decryption tool and private decryption key, and demand a ransom in order to release these tools for the victim. In other words, the attackers are trying to extort the computer user financially.
Overview of the ransom note
The ransom note associated with all of recent STOP/DJVU versions, including ZOQW, is named _readme.txt and contains identical message. The only thing that changes overtime is email addresses provided in it. In this ransomware variant, the provided email addresses that belong to the cybercriminals are support@freshmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc.
The note instructs the victim to write a message to it and include the Personal ID string listed in the _readme.txt file. In addition, the user can send one encrypted file for test decryption and expect its decrypted version in return. This way, the criminals are trying to convince the user to trust them and transfer the money to them sooner.
The criminals briefly explain what has happened to the files on the computer system and suggest that the sole way out of this situation is paying the ransom. They initial demand is $980, but for those who rush to contact them within 72 hours a 50% discount will be applied, meaning the decryption tools would cost $490. The ransomware operators will later specify that the transaction can only be made via cryptocurrency, as this gives certain level of anonymity for them.
Paying a ransom is not a recommended option due to several reasons. As FBI, NCSC, CyberReason and other reputable organizations point out, paying up doesn’t guarantee data recovery, besides, it gives power to the criminals to fund their operations and as a result, attack more computer users.
In addition, samples of the malicious files that triggered this ransomware infection revealed additional malware hidden and launched during the attack. According to our research, several information-stealing Trojans are dropped, including Azorult, RedLine, and Vidar. These threats are capable of stealing browser-stored passwords, browsing history, cookies, offline cryptocurrency wallets, information about the computer and more. The criminals may use collected data for various illegal purposes, including blackmail.
We strongly recommend that you remove ZOQW ransomware virus and additional threats using a powerful antivirus solution while in Safe Mode with Networking (see instructions provided below). Our team relies on INTEGO Antivirus for malware removal, while another great tool that you can download is RESTORO (secure download link) as it helps to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files.
Ransomware Summary
| Name | ZOQW Ransomware Virus |
| Type | Ransomware; Crypto-malware; Virtual Extortion Virus |
| Family | STOP/DJVU |
| Encryption type | RSA 2048 + Salsa20 |
| Previous versions | JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (find full list here) |
| Version | 629th |
| Extension | .zoqw |
| Cybercriminal emails | support@freshmail.top, 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 .zoqw 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). |
Intego Antivirus for Windows
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Ransomware distribution and ways to protect your PC
Ransomware-type threats are distributed using typical malware distribution methods, and the most popular of them are illegal online downloads and malicious email attachments. When it comes to STOP/DJVU variants such as ZOQW ransomware, the primary location that computer users find them available to download is deceptive websites advertising software cracks.
Computer users who are trying to cut costs of legitimate software license keys often seek to find free ways to install these programs. Therefore, they might browse rogue online websites promising full and free premium software packs available to download via direct link or torrent. We have recently overviewed a network of such websites that provide fake setup files hidden into password-protected archives to bypass AV detection.
In order to avoid such unconfirmed downloads, users should only choose legitimate websites that provide genuine software versions. The chances of installing a pirated software versions without getting infected are extremely low, so it is simply not worth trying – besides, by paying for a software license, you support companies that produce useful software for computer users. It is a much better option than losing all of your files and having to debate whether to pay a ransom to cybercriminals.
Another popular method to spread ransomware is email spam that contains malicious attachments. The attackers often make use of phishing techniques and impersonate well-known people or companies to trick the target into opening attached files or URLs. It is important to stay cautious when checking emails and avoid interacting with ones that seem unfamiliar or unexpected.
Sometimes, cybercriminals also use malware-laced advertisements to spread ransomware. In such case, the user can get infected after clicking on a malicious advertisement that leads to a dangerous website or a download page.
Overall, it is important to be cautious when browsing the Internet and avoid clicking on something that seems at least slightly suspicious. In addition, we strongly recommend keeping your computer protected with real-time AV protection at all times, and create data backups regularly.
Remove ZOQW ransomware virus and restore your files
Computer users who have unknowingly exposed their computers to the described file-encrypting malware should rush to delete its remains from the system. The software we recommend using to remove ZOQW ransomware virus and related threats is INTEGO Antivirus as it is a trustworthy and powerful AV.
Once ZOQW virus removal is finalised, you can download RESTORO for repairing virus-damaged Windows OS files. Afterward, we also recommend changing your passwords (due to the activity of the additional information-stealing malware dropped alongside ransomware) and reporting cybercrime incident to your local authorities.
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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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ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW files
Fix and open large ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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. ZOQW Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like JYPO, KIFR, KIOP, KITZ, BOZA, BOTY, COZA (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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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 ZOQW 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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