Remove WHAT IS SQ_ Filename Ransomware

How to Remove WHAT IS SQ_ file extension Ransomware?

WHAT IS SQ_ is linked to one of the worst types of cyber infections, roaming the internet – ransomware. So, if you come across the name WHAT IS SQ_ anywhere on your computer, you’re in trouble. Ransomware is a strong contender for the title ‘worst infection’ because it threatens your privacy, as well as all of your data. And, data is precious and hard to let go. That’s why the tool is designed to target it. It tries to back you into a corner and force you to comply with its demands. After the ransomware tool slithers its way into your system, it wastes no time and immediately gets to work. Each file you have stored on your computer is now in danger. The infection encrypts every single one of them and requires you to pay a ransom if you wish to decrypt them. And, if you choose not to pay, you lose your files. To make it clearer, the pesky program does not steal your data in the sense of relocating them or moving them in any way. Oh, no. They’re right where you left them. It just encrypts them in a manner, which prevents you from opening them. After it’s done with the process, they’re no longer accessible. The only way to change that is to apply the decryption code, which is, of course, in the hands of the ‘kidnappers.’ But more about the tool’s method of operation later. Right now, you need to understand that it’s a waste of time to try to battle with the infection. You cannot win. The game is rigged, and the odds are stacked against you. Every outcome ends either with you back to square one, or even with you in a worse predicament than when you started. As harsh as it may sound, the best course of action you can take is to say goodbye to your data and move on. After all, files are replaceable. Your privacy is not.

How did I get infected with?

Ransomware doesn’t just magically appear on your computer one day. Yes, often times, it may seem like it popped up out of thin air, but that’s not the case. Such tools require your permission before they enter your system. Yes, they’re bound to ask for your approval before they install themselves. And, yes, you have to grant it before they can proceed with the installation. If you don’t consent to it, they cannot invade your PC, which means that since you’re currently dealing with a ransomware infection, you approved it in. But, do you remember doing so? It’s hardly surprising if you don’t. In fact, it’s pretty common NOT to realize that you did it before it’s too late, and the damage is already done. Why? Well, ransomware tools are masterful when it comes to finding a way into your system. They’re equipped with all kinds of tricks, which they turn to and dupe you into complying with their installment. And, the infection, connected to WHAT IS SQ_, is no different. It managed to fool you by resorting to the old but gold methods of infiltration. That includes the usual suspects: freeware, spam email attachments, etc., but the infection’s preferred means of invasion is through fake updates. It pretends to be a bogus system or program update, like Java and Adobe Flash Player, and if you’re not careful enough, you allow it into your PC without even knowing. To keep that from happening, be extra vigilant! Don’t throw caution to the wind and don’t give into gullibility and haste. Such pesky programs prey on carelessness, so don’t provide it! Try to remember that even a little extra attention goes a long way.

Why is this dangerous?

Once the pesky ransomware slithers into your system, its programming kicks in shortly. It begins the encryption process, and in no time has gained control of your data. Nothing is beyond its reach. Every single file you have stored on your computer – pictures, videos, music, documents, etc., everything is no longer accessible. It’s still where you left it, teasing you as you cannot open it. The ransomware completes the encryption process by renaming your files. For example, if you have a file, called ‘awesome,’ you’ll now find it renamed as ‘ sq_awesome.’ And, even if you rename it, that won’t change the fact that it’s encrypted and inaccessible. Once the ransomware has finished with the encryption process, it leaves a txt file in each folder. It’s called ‘WHAT IS SQ_.txt,’ and it contains the ransom demands and the exchange instructions. The program requires you to pay three bitcoins for the decryption key that will free your files. It provides you with an address, where you have to send the payment, and lists an email address ( ke17@ruggedinbox.com), where you can send your unique identificator and inform the kidnappers that you have been paid. When you’ve completed the payment, you’re supposed to wait for ‘1 or 2 or… 24 hours’ to receive your decryption key. Know this. There are countless ways the exchange can go wrong, and they all end with you regretting your decision to comply with the ransomware’s demands in the first place. So, save yourself the troubles and headaches, and don’t go through with it at all! It’s truly for the best. There are NO guarantees whatsoever that the kidnappers will keep their promises and send you a decryptor, or if it will work, or even if it does – the ransomware’s programming can just kick back in the very next day, and you’ll be forced to deal with the same situation once more. Only this time, malicious strangers with unclear agendas will have access to your personal and financial information. Protect your privacy. Forsake your files. It may be difficult to swallow, but you won’t regret it.

WHAT IS SQ_ file extension Removal Instructions

STEP 1: Start Your Computer into Safe Mode with Networking

• Make sure you do not have any floppy disks, CDs, and DVDs inserted in your computer
• Restart the computer
  
• When you see a table, start tapping the F8 key every second until you enter the Advanced Boot Options

• in the Advanced Boot Options screen, use the arrow keys to highlight Safe Mode with Networking , and then press ENTER.

• Once the operating system loads press simultaneously the Windows Logo Button and the R key.

• A dialog box should open. Type iexplore www.virusresearch.org/download-en

• Internet Explorer will open and a professional scanner will prompt to be downloaded
• Run the installer
• Follow the instruction and use the professional malware removal tool to detect the files of the virus.
• After performing a full scan you will be asked to register the software. You can do that or perform a manual removal.

Remove WHAT IS SQ_ file extension malware Manually

Open your task Manager by pressing CTRL+SHIFT+ESC keys simultaneously

Locate the process of the Ransomware. Have in mind that this is usually a random generated file.

Before you kill the process, type the name on a text document for later reference.

Navigate to your %appdata%/roaming folder and delete the executable.

 

Open your Windows Registry Editor and navigate to

HKCU\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\

and

HKLM\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run\

delete the name crypto13

You can alternatively use your msconfig windows program to double check the execution point of the virus. Please, have in mind that the names in your machine might be different as they might be generated randomly, that’s why you run the professional scanner to identify the files.

It is always a good idea to use a reputable anti-malware program after manual removal, to prevent this from happening again.