This computer threat mainly spreads via illegal online downloads, namely “cracked” software versions. The cybercriminals upload them to rogue websites claiming these are fully working copies of premium paid computer programs. Victims who fall for these claims download a malicious executable that launches the ransomware on the system.

Contents of the ransom note

The ransom note dropped by the virus contains a short message from the criminals who are responsible for these malware attacks. They demand for victim’s attention and explain that all files were locked using the strongest encryption and unique key, which makes it impossible to recover files without the attackers’ help. They explain that the only way to get files back is to pay a ransom and receive special decryption tools. Next, the note clarifies that the victim should contact the ransomware operators via one of provided emails – support@bestyourmail.ch or supportsys@airmail.cc. In addition, they advise that if the computer user writes to them within 72 hours, they will provide a 50% discount on the decryption software, meaning that the ransom amount will be set to $490. Otherwise, they suggest the victim has to pay the full amount, which is $980. One way or another, they will ask to pay the ransom in cryptocurrency so that their identities couldn’t be tracked down. In addition to that, the ransom note asks the computer user to attach one sample encrypted file to the email and also include the Personal ID string (provided at the end of the ransom note). The crooks promise to demonstrate their capability to restore victim’s data by sending an original file version back to the victim. However, ransomware victims should stick to the official FBI recommendations that emphasize paying the ransom is not a recommended option. On top of that, cybercriminals have a tendency to continue blackmailing victims who have already paid up. Most importantly, paying money to cybercriminals only encourages them to continue their activities.

Additional details about this ransomware

GGWQ extension virus was specifically created to attack computers worldwide except those situated in specific countries: Russia, Ukraine, Syria, Kyrgyzstan, Belarus, Armenia, Tajikistan, Kazachstan, or Uzbekistan. To perform a check of a computer’s location, the virus requests a response from https[:]//api.2ip.ua/geo.json and saves it into the geo.json file. This file contains computer’s IP address, country, city, zip code and more details. Then it compares the information received with its exception list and decides whether to encrypt data on the computer or not. Aside from data encryption, this ransomware also drags additional malware into the computer. Research shows that STOP/DJVU variants mostly spread two popular Trojans – VIDAR and AZORULT Stealers. Both are known for their capabilities to extract certain information from compromised computer and transfer it to the cybercriminals’ servers. Types of data they can steal include cryptocurrency wallets, browsing history, browser-saved cookies and passwords and more. Such information can allow the attacker to blackmail the computer user or even cause financial damage. Due to the danger that these computer threats cause to user’s privacy and personal files, we recommend you to remove GGWQ ransomware virus as soon as possible. For this task, it is better if you boot your computer in Safe Mode with Networking first – it allows safe removal of the threat. Then run a trusted antivirus solution (make sure it is a genuine copy!) to completely erase all malware traces. Then, you may want to download RESTORO to repair virus damage on Windows OS files.

Ransomware Summary

REPAIR VIRUS DAMAGE The screenshot provided below shows a data folder affected by this ransomware.

Ransomware distribution and prevention

Ransomware-type threats are mainly distributed through phishing emails that contain malware-injected attachments and also via illegal online downloads. In fact, the latter is considered to be the main STOP/DJVU attack vector. Computer users should be very careful when checking their email. The cybercriminals use email spoofing techniques and try to mimic the style of emails that are usually sent by legitimate companies. For this matter, they might impersonate someone from online store, parcel delivery service, or even your work. Our advice is to avoid interacting with emails or their attachments if the message reaches you by surprise and you can feel that the sender urges you to click on the attached file or inserted URL. Another thing to inspect is the greeting line – cybercriminals often use generic greetings, such as “Dear valued customer/Dear Sir or Madam” etc. Sometimes, scammers use scare tactics and try to convince the recipient of problems such as that one’s email account will be deactivated or that the user has been charged for a large amount of money for a renewal of unknown subscription. We also advise computer users to avoid suspicious websites that hardly have any reputation at all. This includes sites that distribute copyright-protected content illegally, or at least try to lure computer users into visiting them. Many malware variants hide in fake software cracks and setup files promoted via warez and crack sites that claim to provide fully functional premium software versions without the need to pay for a legitimate license key. The only confirmed way to access such programs safely is by visiting their developer’s or vendor’s website and purchasing a genuine copy.

Remove GGWQ Ransomware Virus and Decrypt or Repair Your Files

Now that you’ve learned how this computer virus works and how it spreads, we recommend that you take action to protect your computer – the sooner, the better. So if you have fallen victim to the described malware attack, we recommend you to follow the guidelines provided below to remove GGWQ ransomware virus. Do not forget to use RESTORO to repair virus-damaged Windows OS files. Once GGWQ virus removal is finished, ensure that your system is protected by the antivirus’ software with real-time protection. Additionally, we advise that you report the incident to local police or an entity responsible for handling cybercrime cases; on top of that, you may want to change all passwords used on the compromised computer. OUR GEEKS RECOMMEND 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: GeeksAdvice.com editors select recommended products based on their effectiveness. We may earn a commission from affiliate links, at no additional cost to you. Learn more. Get INTEGO ANTIVIRUS for Windows to remove ransomware, Trojans, adware and other spyware and malware variants and protect your PC and network drives 24/7. This VB100-certified security software uses state-of-art technology to provide protection against ransomware, Zero-Day attacks and advanced threats, Intego Web Shield blocks dangerous websites, phishing attacks, malicious downloads and installation of potentially unwanted programs. Use INTEGO Antivirus to remove detected threats from your computer. Read full review here. RESTORO provides a free scan that helps to identify hardware, security and stability issues and presents a comprehensive report which can help you to locate and fix detected issues manually. It is a great PC repair software to use after you remove malware with professional antivirus. The full version of software will fix detected issues and repair virus damage caused to your Windows OS files automatically. RESTORO uses AVIRA scanning engine to detect existing spyware and malware. If any are found, the software will eliminate them. Read full review here.

Method 1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Before you try to remove GGWQ 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 Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users Now, you can search for and remove GGWQ 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.

Method 2. Use System Restore

In order to use System Restore, you must have a system restore point, created either manually or automatically. Instructions for Windows XP/Vista/7 users Instructions for Windows 8/8.1/10/11 users 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 Removing spyware and malware is one step towards cybersecurity. To protect yourself against ever-evolving threats, we strongly recommend purchasing a Premium version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware, which provides security based on artificial intelligence and machine learning. Includes ransomware protection. See pricing options and protect yourself now.

System Mechanic Ultimate Defense If you’re looking for an all-in-one system maintenance suite that has 7 core components providing powerful real-time protection, on-demand malware removal, system optimization, data recovery, password manager, online privacy protection and secure driver wiping technology. Therefore, due to its wide-range of capabilities, System Mechanic Ultimate Defense deserves Geek’s Advice approval. Get it now for 50% off. You may also be interested in its full review.

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Decrypt GGWQ files

Fix and open large GGWQ 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.

STOP/DJVU decryption tool usage guide

STOP/DJVU ransomware versions are grouped into old and new variants. GGWQ Ransomware Virus is considered the new STOP/DJVU variant, just like BPTO, ISWR, ISZA, BPSM, ZOUU, MBTF, ZNSM (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 GGWQ files, follow the given tutorial.

Meanings of decryptor’s messages

The GGWQ 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 GGWQ 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.

Victims of GGWQ 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.