Palq ransomware removal

Palq ransomware encrypts files and adds .palq to encrypted files. This file-encrypting malware comes from a notorious family of ransomware known as Djvu/STOP. The cyber gang controlling this ransomware releases new versions at least a couple of times a week, with hundreds of versions already released. Unfortunately, files with the .palq extension will be unopenable, unless you first run them through a decryptor, which, unfortunately, only those operating this ransomware have.

 

 

Palq ransomware comes from the same ransomware family as Cool, Rivd, Rugj, and Maql. As we already mentioned, the Djvu/STOP group has released hundreds of versions already, all of which can be identified by the extensions they add to encrypted files. This one adds .palq, which is why it’s called Palq ransomware. An encrypted image.jpg file would become image.jpg.palq. All personal files will be encrypted, including images, photos, documents, videos, etc. They will all have the same .palq extension. Unless you first run them through a decryptor, you will not be able to open any of them.

During file encryption, you will see a fake Windows update window, which is supposed to distract from what’s happening. As soon as files are done being encrypted, a _readme.txt ransom note will be dropped in all folders containing encrypted files. The note is the generic one dropped by all versions of this ransomware. The note explains how to acquire the decryptor, which involves paying $980 in ransom. The note also explains that those who make contact within the first 72 hours will get a 50% discount. Whether that is true or not, paying the ransom is still not a good idea. Whether you pay or not is your decision but you should be aware of the risks involved before making a decision. One of the main reasons why it’s not recommended to pay the ransom is that there are no guarantees a decryptor will be sent. You are dealing with cybercriminals and there is nothing obligating them to help. Many users have not received their decryptors despite paying. Furthermore, ransomware is as big as it is because victims keep paying the ransom.

For users who have the habit of backing up files, recovering files should not be an issue. However, it’s essential to first delete Palq ransomware from the computer to avoid encrypting the files in backup as well. To fully remove Palq ransomware, it’s recommended to use anti-malware software.

Unfortunately, for those without a backup, it may be impossible to recover files, at least at this moment. It’s not impossible that a free Palq ransomware decryptor will be released in the future, even if it’s not available at the moment. Though it should be mentioned that developing a working decryptor is quite difficult due to the fact that the recent Djvu/STOP ransomware versions use online keys to encrypt files. This means that the keys are unique to each user. Without those keys, it’s unlikely that malware researchers will be able to develop a working decryptor. There is a free Djvu/STOP decryptor by Emsisoft but it will only work on ransomware that uses offline keys for file encryption. We should also mention that when looking for decryptors, you need to be very careful because there are a lot of fake ones. If you cannot find a decryptor on a legitimate source like NoMoreRansom, a random questionable forum will certainly not have a working decryptor. So while you wait, back up your encrypted files and store them somewhere safe. Occasionally check NoMoreRansom or other legitimate sources for a decryptor.

How does ransomware infect computers?

It’s much more likely that users with bad browsing habits will encounter malware because they open unsolicited email attachments, pirate via torrents, click on ads when browsing high-risk websites, etc. If users were to develop better browsing habits, they would significantly decrease their chances of picking up malware.

Spam emails are one of the most common ways users pick up infections like ransomware. It’s enough to just open the attached files for malware to initiate. The emails spreading malware are usually quite obvious unless they target someone whose personal information cybercrooks have. Whether it’s done purposely or now, those emails are usually full of grammar and spelling mistakes. The senders often claim to be emailing on behalf of some service users use, such as a parcel delivery service, a government agency, a tax agency, etc. However, when such emails are full of grammar and spelling mistakes, it’s quite obvious that it’s not legitimate. Another sign of a malicious email is the sender using generic terms like “User”, “Customer”, or “Member” to address users instead of using their names. Normally, when a company whose services users use sends an email, they always address users by name because it looks unprofessional otherwise. However, even when an email looks completely legitimate, it’s still recommended to scan all unsolicited email attachments with anti-virus software or VirusTotal.

Users who use torrents to pirate copyrighted content are also at high risk of picking up an infection. It’s no secret that torrent sites are very badly regulated, which allows cybercriminals to easily upload malicious content and disguise it as a torrent for popular movies, TV series, video games, software, etc. It’s especially common for malware to be placed in torrents for recently released movies and shows. For example, when a new Marvel movie comes out, it’s almost certain that the majority of torrents will contain malware.

Palq ransomware removal

We don’t recommend you try to remove Palq ransomware manually because you could end up causing additional damage. You may also not fully remove the ransomware, which could allow it to recover later on. If you connect to your backup while the ransomware is still present, your backed-up files would become encrypted as well. It’s much better and easier to use anti-virus software. Once the ransomware is fully gone, you can safely connect to your backup and start recovering files.