Opqz Ransomware
The Opqz Ransomware is a new copy of the STOP Ransomware family. The STOP Ransomware has one of the most prevalent ransomware families that has targeted countless users over the past two years.
Propagation and Encryption
The Opqz Ransomware is likely to be distributed via spam email campaigns. This is one of the most preferred infection vectors by cyber crooks. The attackers would create a carefully crafted email that usually contains a fraudulent message alongside a corrupted link or a macro-laced attachment. Naturally, there are other popular distribution techniques such as corrupted advertisements, bogus application downloads, torrent trackers, fake social media pages, etc. When the Opqz Ransomware infects your PC, it will begin locking your data. This data-locker would encrypt your images, audio files, videos, presentations, spreadsheets, documents, databases, archives, and many other filetypes. The encrypted files' names are altered because the Opqz Ransomware appends a '.opqz' extension. This means that a file that was initially called 'ceramic-vase.png' will be renamed to 'ceramic-vase.png.opqz.'
The Ransom Note
Next, the Opqz Ransomware would place a file on the user's desktop. The file is named '_readme.txt' and contains the ransom message of the attackers. The attackers state that:
- The ransom fee is set at $980.
- If the victim manages to contact them within three days, they will be given a 50% discount, which means they will only have to pay $490.
- The user can send the attackers one file that will be unlocked free of charge. However, it should not contain valuable information.
- Two email addresses are available as a means of communication – ‘helpmanager@mail.ch' and ‘restoremanager@firemail.cc.'
It is not secure to contact the creators of this file-locker. Paying the ransom fee does not guarantee you that you will receive the decryption key you need in order to recover your files. This is what makes it necessary to install a reputable, up-to-date anti-malware solution that will remove the Opqz Ransomware from your computer quickly.
