Pauq Virus Ransomware
Pauq virus is a computer infection that aims to corrupt personal data and blackmail victims to pay a hefty ransom fee to hackers. It disrupts system security with the help of shady methods that conceal its essence.
Security researchers confirm that the so-called Pauq virus is another strain of the infamous Dharma ransomware. Pauq ransomware virus encrypts valuable personal files with the help of a strong cipher algorithm. This process leaves .pauq files totally unusable. Their names are changed and set to display three additional extensions. The malicious extensions are an ID number, an email address (carbanak@aol.com) and the .pauq. Following encryption, the ransomware creates its ransom notes to inform you about its presence and provide instructions on how hackers expect you to act further.
Pauq Summary
| Name | Pauq also known as Ransom:Win32/Crysis.ali1020005, Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E, Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E (B) |
| File Extension | .pauq |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Pauq Dharma ransomware renames encrypted files with three malicious extensions. You cannot use encrypted files. A ransom message forces you to contact hackers for more information on how to pay a ransom for a decryption key and a decryption tool. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | FILES ENCRYPTED.txt |
| Ransom Fee | An unknown amount that should probably be transferred in Bitcoin |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Pauq Virus – More About the Infection Process
The beginning of a Pauq attack is set by the activation of a malicious executable file on the system. Techniques like spam emails, email attachments, hacked web pages, and corrupted freeware installers may deliver this file on a computer system. The malspam propagation technique is considered to be the main one. It enables hackers to spread their malicious code on a large scale by presenting themselves as representatives of well-known companies and services. Regarding the most popular Windows file types that are used for malware infections they are executable files, documents and other Microsoft Office files, application files, script files, PDFs, temporary files and other.
As a ransomware infection, Pauq poses a high level of danger to all computer systems it accesses. The ransomware establishes lots of malicious files and entries to complete its attack. Its files corrupt system settings and help it to evade detection. The Registry Editor is also likely to be affected by the virus. Especially the registry keys like RUN and RUNONCE as they will enable the Pauq ransomware to execute malicious files automatically every time you start the infected system.
Like previous Dharma ranomware variants (Word virus, Fresh virus) the Pauq virus aims to locate valuable personal files stored on system drives and encode them with one or more complex cipher algorithms.
.pauq File Extension
Once the computer system is corrupted, the ransomware can continue with the data encryption phase. The completion of this phase demands the activation of a built-in cipher module. It works with a strong cipher algorithm. That’s why all corrupted files remain inaccessible and renamed with the malicious extensions .id-W379F347.[carbanak@aol.com].pauq after encryption.
Unfortunately, all files that store important personal information including document, music, project, database, image, video, backup, archive, and audio files are likely to be among the targets of Pauq virus.
In fact, the nasty Pauq ransomware aims to extort a ransom fee for the .pauq files decryption tool. So, once it encodes files, it drops two ransom messages with more information on the payment process. A pop-up window presents the following text message:
All your files have been encrypted!
All your files have been encrypted due to a security problem with your PC. If you want to restore them, write us to the e-mail carbanak@aol.com
Write this ID in the title of your message –
In case of no answer in 24 hours write us to theese e-mails:buhtrap@aol.com
You have to pay for decryption in Bitcoins. The price depends on how fast you write to us. After payment we will send you the decryption tool that will decrypt all your files.Free decryption as guarantee
Before paying you can send us up to 1 file for free decryption. The total size of files must be less than 1Mb (non archived), and files should not contain valuable information. (databases, backups, large excel sheets, etc.)How to obtain Bitcoins
The easiest way to buy bitcoins is LocalBitcoins site. You have to register, click ‘Buy bitcoins’, and select the seller by payment method and price.
hxxps://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
Also you can find other places to buy Bitcoins and beginners guide here:
hxxp://www.coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins/Attention!
Do not rename encrypted files.
Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.
While a file named FILES ENCRYPTED.txt informs the following:
all your data has been locked us
You want to return?
Write email carbanak@aol.com or buhtrap@aol.com
We strongly advise against any contacts with cybercriminals. The ransom payment isn’t a good option as well. This step does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted files. Oftentimes, hackers skip answering their victims. So you may get tricked once again.
How to Remove Pauq Ransomware Virus and Restore Files
The so-called Pauq ransomware virus is a threat with a highly complex code that disrupts system security in order to encrypt personal files. Hence the infected system could be used in a secure manner again only after you remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. The steps presented in the ransomware removal guide below will help you with the complete removal process. Beware that manual ransomware removal is suitable for more experienced computer users. If you don’t feel comfortable with the manual steps navigate to the automatic part of the guide. It is also worth mentioning that personal data remains encrypted even after the complete removal of Pauq ransomware. Its removal only prevents it from causing further encryptions and security issues.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for Pauq with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Pauq and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Pauq on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Pauq there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Pauq
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Pauq.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Pauq aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Pauq-FAQ
What is Pauq Ransomware?
Pauq is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Pauq Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Pauq Infect?
Via several ways.Pauq Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Pauq is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Pauq files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Pauq files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Pauq files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Pauq" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Pauq files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Pauq Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Pauq ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Pauq files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Pauq Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Pauq Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Pauq how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Pauq ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
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