What Is Nqhd Virus?
Nqhd virus is the name of a ransomware infection that has been created with the main purpose to slither inside your computer system unnoticed and attack your files. This particular virus belongs to the STOP/DJVU family of threats that has hundreds of variants and is active for quite some time now. The main objective of these viruses is to get in your computer and encrypt your files in order to extort you into paying a lot of money in the form of Bitcoin in order to get the files to work again. To achieve this goal, the virus leaves behind a .nqhd extension after encrypting the files and a _readme.txt ransom note file that aims to notify the victim of the situation and how they can buy Bitcoin and pay the ransom.
Read this article in order to learn more information about how this virus works and how you can safely remove it from your computer and try to decrypt your files.
Nqhd Virus Summary
| Name | Nqhd virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
| File Extension | |
| 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 Nqhd Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .Nqhd extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
Nqhd Virus – How Did I Get Infected?
Nqhd virus it’s a part of a large ransomware family, called the STOP Ransomware and some of it’s recent variants include the Loov, Luez and Miia infections.
Couple of methods exist when it comes to how these viruses and up on your computer. One of them is if the malware gets sent to you in the form of an email attachment, that could be pretending to appear as one of the following documents:
- Invoices.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
These attachments often contain malicious macros, that gets triggered when you download and open the attachment. After you do this, the infection process that follows is the following:
Nqhd virus good propagates on your computer if you have download it from some type of shady website. If this is the case, then this malware can appear like it is one of the following files you may have been looking for online:
- SFX (self extracting) archives or other forms of archives and extractors.
- Fake install executables.
- Fake patch for a program.
- Cracks for portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
- Key generators (also known as Keygens).
Nqhd Ransomware – What Does It Do?
Once the virus is triggered, it connects to a remote host, from which it begins to download its payload files. The main problem that exists with this is that you do not know what is happening, while in the meantime this infection may situate malicious files in the following Windows directories:
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %system32%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
Be advised, that the virus also drops the _readme.txt ransom note that has been created to let you know of the situation and give you instructions on how to pay the ransom to the cyber criminals:
Furthermore, among the activities of this infection could also be to tamper with the Windows registry editor, more specifically the following registries:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
Adding value strings in those sub-keys of Windows Registry Editor makes the virus run automatically each time you start your computer.
What Are .nqhd Files
The .nqhd files are the encrypted versions of your original files. They have their core data changed by using a cypher, known as AES encryption algorithm. Nqhd virus is a type of malware that has been created to attack your most important files, while at the same time skips encrypting important files of Windows so that you can still pay the ransom to the crooks.
The main files that are affected by this virus usually carry the following file extensions:
- Audio (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Picture file kinds (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Videos (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archive file formats (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Documents of different types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
After the encryption process has completed, the virus deletes the original files and creates their encrypted analogues that look like the following:
Picture.jpg.nqhd
How to Remove Nqhd Virus
Nqhd virus is the type of infection that can be got rid of from your computer system by following the removal instructions that have been posted underneath this article. These steps have been made with the primary idea to best assist you to get rid of this threat either manually or automatically. For the most effective removal, it is strongly recommended to do the removal automatically, preferably by using the power of advanced anti-malware software. Such a program is specifically created with the main idea to best assist you in the detection and removal of any malware, like Nqhd virus and protect your device in the future as well.
How to Decrypt .nqhd Files?
In order to decrypt files, encrypted by Nqhd virus, advised that the files must contain an offline decryption key. This key is used with the main purpose to decrypt the files by using the official software for description that has been created by independent malware researchers.
Read our STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide or watch the video guide below to see how to use the official decryption software for this virus and try to get your files to work again.
Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
If your decryption key is online-based, however, we would strongly suggest that you back up the files and try using the alternative methods that have been posted in the guide below. It has been created with the main idea to help you restore as many files as you can but it does not come with a 100% chance guarantee of succeeding.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Nqhd with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 Nqhd
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Nqhd.
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 Nqhd 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.
Nqhd-FAQ
What is Nqhd Ransomware?
Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 Nqhd Infect?
Via several ways.Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 .Nqhd files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Nqhd 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 .Nqhd files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Nqhd" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 Nqhd ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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 Nqhd Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Nqhd 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 Nqhd 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.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.
Hi! This post is so complete, but i’ve a question, buy the Spyhunter is the only one option? Or can i use de free version for eliminate .nqhd? Thanks you!
Hello, you can choose among any anti-malware programs out there, not just SpyHunter. However, the research team behind the software always keeps SpyHunter updated to cover the latest STOP Ransomware threats, like NQHD virus and is fully capable of removing it. It also has a Free removal option, but it is delayed removal, so you will have to wait a bit before the removal takes place.
HELLO IS IT POSSIBLE TO RECOVER DATA FROM NQHD ENCRYPTION
It is possible if your decryption key is offline. In case it is, you can try the STOP Decrypter in the video on the “How to Remove” section. If the key is online based, it is much difficult to decrypt the files, but you can still use data recovery and other methods we have mentioned in the “try to restore” section.
Sou do Brasil, tentei escriptografar os arquivos, mas o programa afirma que a chave é online. Terei que pagar o que eles pedem?