Loqw ransomware (virus) - Recovery Instructions Included
Loqw virus Removal Guide
What is Loqw ransomware?
Loqw ransomware is a dangerous virus that encrypts users' personal files
Loqw is an exceptionally destructive computer virus that employs an advanced RSA encryption algorithm to secure personal documents, videos, pictures, databases, and other data. Because of this code's intricacy, decrypting files without the hackers' unique decryption key is extremely difficult.
As a result, getting back access to your data almost becomes impossible. The virus adds a .loqw extension to encrypted files and replaces their original icons with a new one, making the data unreadable. There could be serious repercussions from this disturbance, particularly for those who don't have backup copies of their important data.
The ransom note file _readme.txt is left behind by the malware when it has successfully infected a system. This file contains a request for payment in cryptocurrency, usually asking victims to send $480 or $980 in Bitcoin.
| NAME | Loqw |
| TYPE | Ransomware, file-locking malware |
| MALWARE FAMILY | Djvu ransomware |
| FILE EXTENSION | .loqw |
| RANSOM NOTE | _readme.txt |
| RANSOM AMOUNT | $490/$980 |
| CONTACT | support@freshmail.top, datarestorehelpyou@airmail.cc |
| FILE RECOVERY | There is no guaranteed way to recover locked files without backups. Other options include paying cybercriminals (not recommended, might also lose the paid money), using Emisoft's decryptor (works for a limited number of victims), or using third-party recovery software |
| MALWARE REMOVAL | After disconnecting the computer from the network and the internet, do a complete system scan using a security program |
| SYSTEM FIX | As soon as it is installed, malware has the potential to severely harm some system files, causing instability problems, including crashes and errors. Any such damage can be automatically repaired by using FortectIntego PC repair |
The ransom note
Cybercriminals use the ransom note as a means of communication, asking for money to release the victim's files in return. According to the note, all of the victim's files, including databases, papers, photos, and other important data, have been encrypted with strong algorithms and a unique key. The only way to get back access to the files is to pay the hackers, who will then give you a decryption program and the matching private key.
ATTENTION!
Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-MhbiRFXgXD
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail “Spam” or “Junk” folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@freshmail.topReserve e-mail address to contact us:
datarestorehelpyou@airmail.ccYour personal ID:
–
The cybercriminals propose decryption of one file as a token gesture if the victim submits it as a small assurance. But they make it clear that the file shouldn't include any important information. To further entice the victim, they provide a video demonstration of the decryption tool. The established price for the private key and decryption software is $980; but, if the victim contacts the cybercriminals within the first 72 hours, the amount drops to $490. The notice emphasizes that paying is the only way for the victim to get their data back.
The ransom message lists two email addresses for correspondence: datarestorehelp@airmail.cc and support@freshmail.top. The victim is instructed by the crooks to send an email to request the decryption software. However, interacting with the cybercriminals is strongly discouraged for several reasons.
Cybercriminals are extremely unreliable since, by encrypting the victim's files, they have already committed crimes. There is no guarantee that they will provide the required tools or decrypt the files, even after they have received the ransom. Interacting with cybercriminals puts more people and organizations in danger down the road since it just serves to legitimize their illegal behavior and offer financial support for it.
Remove Loqw ransomware
For those who have never dealt with an attack by ransomware, navigating the aftermath can be difficult. But, making the correct decisions is essential and can have a big impact on your chances of getting your data back.
As soon as possible, disconnect your computer from the internet to prevent malware infections on other devices on the same network. Disconnecting your device can help stop the spread of malware because it frequently uses networks to interact with distant Command & Control servers. To do this, take the actions listed below:
- Type in Control Panel in Windows search and press Enter
- Go to Network and Internet
- Click Network and Sharing Center
![Network and internet 2]( "Network and internet 2")
- On the left, pick Change adapter settings
![Network and internet 3]( "Network and internet 3")
- Right-click on your connection (for example, Ethernet), and select Disable
![Network and internet 4]( "Network and internet 4")
- Confirm with Yes.
You can manually remove the Loqw ransomware from your device if it has taken over and it is currently offline. However, because of its complexity, this process calls for extensive IT knowledge. Generally speaking, it is recommended to use specialist software created especially for ransomware removal or to seek the assistance of an expert.
If not done correctly, trying to remove the ransomware manually carries dangers and could do further harm. As a result, to properly remove the virus, it is advised to do a thorough system scan using reliable security software like SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. These technologies are skilled in locating and removing every harmful element connected to ransomware.
In addition, it is strongly advised to utilize a trustworthy recovery program FortectIntego to handle any possible problems with the system, including crashes or errors, that might occur after the virus has been successfully removed.
Recover .loqw files
Despite popular assumptions, security software is unable to accomplish the amazing feat of recovering personal files encrypted by ransomware. Its main job is to detect and get rid of dangerous apps while protecting your device from more dangers in the future. Beyond the scope of anti-malware software, a different method is required for the recovery of encrypted ransomware data. Still, having this kind of software is essential for seeing any problems and strengthening device security.
Ransomware encrypts files and creates a distinct ID and difficult encryption key when it is launched. The hackers coordinating the attack receive this information and utilize it to obtain the matching decryption key needed to access the users' data. Unfortunately, these crooks do not give away the decryptor for free because their goal is to take advantage of the situation.
We highly advise looking into the alternatives listed below rather than choosing to pay. As there's a chance of corruption during the recovery procedure, make a backup copy of the encrypted data before moving further. The Emsisoft decryption tool is a viable solution, but there is no guarantee that it will work in your particular situation.
- Download the app from the official Emsisoft website.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
- After pressing Download button, a small pop-up at the bottom, titled decrypt_STOPDjvu.exe should show up – click it.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
- If User Account Control (UAC) message shows up, press Yes.
- Agree to License Terms by pressing Yes.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
- After Disclaimer shows up, press OK.
- The tool should automatically populate the affected folders, although you can also do it by pressing Add folder at the bottom.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
- Press Decrypt.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
From here, there are three available outcomes:
- “Decrypted!” will be shown under files that were decrypted successfully – they are now usable again.
- “Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID:” means that the keys for this version of the virus have not yet been retrieved, so you should try later.
- “This ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible” – you are unable to decrypt files with this tool.
If your data was encrypted with an online ID, Emsisoft's tool won't work. In such a case, we recommend trying specialized data recovery software instead.
- Download Data Recovery Pro.
- Double-click the installer to launch it.
![Loqw ransomware]( "Loqw ransomware")
- Follow on-screen instructions to install the software.
- As soon as you press Finish, you can use the app.
- Select Everything or pick individual folders which you want the files to be recovered from.
![Select what to recover]( "Select what to recover")
- Press Next.
- At the bottom, enable Deep scan and pick which Disks you want to be scanned.
![Select Deep scan]( "Select Deep scan")
- Press Scan and wait till it is complete.
![Scan]( "Scan")
- You can now pick which folders/files to recover – don't forget you also have the option to search by the file name!
- Press Recover to retrieve your files.
Another alternative is to exercise patience and wait for security researchers and companies to develop a free decryption tool. This often occurs when vulnerabilities are identified within the encryption code used by the malware or when law enforcement agencies seize the cybercriminals' servers. It is important to note that there is no guarantee that such a solution will be created in the future. Nevertheless, we recommend following the provided links to explore the possibility of finding a decryptor for this particular virus.
- No More Ransom Project
- Free Ransomware Decryptors by Kaspersky
- Free Ransomware Decryption Tools from Emsisoft
- Avast decryptors
Getting rid of Loqw virus. Follow these steps
Restore Windows "hosts" file to its original state
Some ransomware might modify Windows hosts file in order to prevent users from accessing certain websites online. For example, Djvu ransomware variants add dozens of entries containing URLs of security-related websites, such as 2-spyware.com. Each of the entries means that users will not be able to access the listed web addresses and will receive an error instead.
Here's an example of “hosts” file entries that were injected by ransomware:
In order to restore your ability to access all websites without restrictions, you should either delete the file (Windows will automatically recreate it) or remove all the malware-created entries. If you have never touched the “hosts” file before, you should simply delete it by marking it and pressing Shift + Del on your keyboard. For that, navigate to the following location:
C:\\Windows\\System32\\drivers\\etc\\
Create data backups to avoid file loss in the future
One of the many countermeasures for home users against ransomware is data backups. Even if your Windows get corrupted, you can reinstall everything from scratch and retrieve files from backups with minimal losses overall. Most importantly, you would not have to pay cybercriminals and risk your money as well.
Therefore, if you have already dealt with a ransomware attack, we strongly advise you to prepare backups for future use. There are two options available to you:
- Backup on a physical external drive, such as a USB flash drive or external HDD.
- Use cloud storage services.
The first method is not that convenient, however, as backups need to constantly be updated manually – although it is very reliable. Therefore, we highly advise choosing cloud storage instead – it is easy to set up and efficient to sustain. The problem with it is that storage space is limited unless you want to pay for the subscription.
Using Microsoft OneDrive
OneDrive is a built-in tool that comes with every modern Windows version. By default, you get 5 GB of storage that you can use for free. You can increase that storage space, but for a price. Here's how to setup backups for OneDrive:
- Click on the OneDrive icon within your system tray.
- Select Help & Settings > Settings.
- If you don't see your email under the Account tab, you should click Add an account and proceed with the on-screen instructions to set yourself up.
- Once done, move to the Backup tab and click Manage backup.
- Select Desktop, Documents, and Pictures, or a combination of whichever folders you want to backup.
- Press Start backup.
After this, all the files that are imported into the above-mentioned folders will be automatically backed for you. If you want to add other folders or files, you have to do that manually. For that, open File Explorer by pressing Win + E on your keyboard, and then click on the OneDrive icon. You should drag and drop folders you want to backup (or you can use Copy/Paste as well).
Using Google Drive
Google Drive is another great solution for free backups. The good news is that you get as much as 15GB for free by choosing this storage. There are also paid versions available, with significantly more storage to choose from.
You can access Google Drive via the web browser or use a desktop app you can download on the official website. If you want your files to be synced automatically, you will have to download the app, however.
- Download the Google Drive app installer and click on it.
- Wait a few seconds for it to be installed.
- Now click the arrow within your system tray – you should see Google Drive icon there, click it once.
- Click Get Started.
- Enter all the required information – your email/phone, and password.
- Now pick what you want to sync and backup. You can click on Choose Folder to add additional folders to the list.
- Once done, pick Next.
- Now you can select to sync items to be visible on your computer.
- Finally, press Start and wait till the sync is complete. Your files are now being backed up.
Report the incident to your local authorities
Ransomware is a huge business that is highly illegal, and authorities are very involved in catching malware operators. To have increased chances of identifying the culprits, the agencies need information. Therefore, by reporting the crime, you could help with stopping the cybercriminal activities and catching the threat actors. Make sure you include all the possible details, including how did you notice the attack, when it happened, etc. Additionally, providing documents such as ransom notes, examples of encrypted files, or malware executables would also be beneficial.
Law enforcement agencies typically deal with online fraud and cybercrime, although it depends on where you live. Here is the list of local authority groups that handle incidents like ransomware attacks, sorted by country:
- USA – Internet Crime Complaint Center IC3
- United Kingdom – ActionFraud
- Canada – Canadian Anti-Fraud Centre
- Australia – ScamWatch
- New Zealand – ConsumerProtection
- Germany – Polizei
- France – Ministère de l'Intérieur
If your country is not listed above, you should contact the local police department or communications center.
How to prevent from getting ransomware
Choose a proper web browser and improve your safety with a VPN tool
Online spying has got momentum in recent years and people are getting more and more interested in how to protect their privacy online. One of the basic means to add a layer of security – choose the most private and secure web browser. Although web browsers can't grant full privacy protection and security, some of them are much better at sandboxing, HTTPS upgrading, active content blocking, tracking blocking, phishing protection, and similar privacy-oriented features. However, if you want true anonymity, we suggest you employ a powerful Private Internet Access VPN – it can encrypt all the traffic that comes and goes out of your computer, preventing tracking completely.
Lost your files? Use data recovery software
While some files located on any computer are replaceable or useless, others can be extremely valuable. Family photos, work documents, school projects – these are types of files that we don't want to lose. Unfortunately, there are many ways how unexpected data loss can occur: power cuts, Blue Screen of Death errors, hardware failures, crypto-malware attack, or even accidental deletion.
To ensure that all the files remain intact, you should prepare regular data backups. You can choose cloud-based or physical copies you could restore from later in case of a disaster. If your backups were lost as well or you never bothered to prepare any, Data Recovery Pro can be your only hope to retrieve your invaluable files.
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