What Is Pcqq Virus
Pcqq is a ransomware virus that belongs to the notorious ransomware family of threats, known as STOP/DJVU. It encrypts your files using the AES encryption algorithm and then leaves them encoded with the .Pcqq file extension after their original one. Then, the virus leaves a ransom note file, called _readme.txt which contains instructions on how to pay ransom to the cyber-criminals who have infected your computer with this threat.
Read this article to learn more about the Pcqq Virus virus and how you can remove it from your computer and try to get your files to work again.
Pcqq Summary
Name | Pcqq also known as Trojan.GenericKD.35978248, Trojan.Win32.Stop.j!c, Trojan.Ransom.Stop, Trojan.Ransom.Stop, A Variant Of Win32/Kryptik.HIMQ, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Stop.qq – VirusTotal |
File Extension | .pcqq |
Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
Symptoms | This variant of STOP ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .pcqq virus extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Torrent Files |
Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
Pcqq Virus – How Does It Work?
Pcqq virus may be spread onto computers just like other variants of STOP ransomware, such as Ekvf, Yrnb and Ytbn. The main way infection works is by an infection file, that is either masked as a program or a document to be downloaded and ran by the victim.
If you have downloaded some type of .exe or self-extracting archive from a risky website, then you could have downloaded the Pcqq virus instead. Usually, these viruses come as the following programs if downloaded online:
- Software activation executables.
- Cracks.
- Patches.
- Key generators (keygens).
Pcqq virus is the type of malware that can also arrive on your computer as a result of a virus e-mail of some sort. The main way this may work is if the malware is sent to you in the form of some very important document, like:
- Fake e-tickets.
- Receipts.
- Invoices.
- Document that is work-related or from a bank.
Once Pcqq Virus infects your computer, it may leave its malicious files in some of the following Windows system drive directories:
- %AppData%
- %LocalLow%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
The virus also leaves behind the _readme.txt ransom note so that you can see it. It is important for the criminals because it shows victims how to contact them and negotiate a BitCoin payment for the files:
.pcqq Virus Files
Pcqq Virus virus may encrypt your files by scanning for their file extensions. The main idea here is that the important files to you are encoded without causing harm to critical Windows drivers and system files so you can still use your computer to pay ransom. The following file types are targeted:- Documents.
- Image files.
- Videos.
- Archive files.
- Databases
- Backups.
- Audio files.
After encryption, the files cannot be opened and carry the .Pcqq Virus file extension. The main goal of these crooks is for you to pay about $1000 in BitCoin – something that we do not reccomend.
Remove Pcqq Virus and Try to Recover Data
Pcqq virus should be removed if you follow the removal instructions we have posted underneath. They have been specifically created with the primary purpose to help you delete this infection in an effective manner. For the best removal experts always do advise using an anti-malware software. Running a scan of your computer with such a software will surely help you to delete all of the virus files of any malware on your PC automatically and protect it in the future, too.
For file recovery, you have two options. To wait for researchers, like the experts at Emsisoft to update the STOP Decryptor which can decrypt files of only “Offline” decryption keys. This usually will happen in couple of weeks time, depending on your variant. If your keys are online, then you are a bit out of luck for now. But you are welcome to try out our file recovery steps below. If you are lucky, they can help restore most of your files, but bear in mind that they may not come at a 100% guarantee to work.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Pcqq Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Pcqq Virus 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Pcqq Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Pcqq Virus.
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 Pcqq Virus 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.
Pcqq Virus-FAQ
What is Pcqq Virus Ransomware?
Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus 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 .Pcqq Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Pcqq Virus 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 .Pcqq Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Pcqq Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Pcqq Virus 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 Pcqq Virus 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.
Please help me i lost my all research data of 6 years. File encrypt pcqq
Hi there. Unfortunately, later variants of STOP/DJVU ransomware all use online encryption keys thus decreasing the chances of file recovery. You can try using data recovery software like the one we recommend. Keep in mind, however, that full recovery may not be possible.