Ransomware Research
SQ_ Ransomware
SQ_ is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on December 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: VO_.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- SQ_
- First Seen
- December 1, 2016
- Known Aliases
- VO_
How SQ_ Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
NOSAMPLE
File Encryption Patterns
SQ_ modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Prefixes added to encrypted files:
VO_BA_nk_Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, SQ_ displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
NK_ IN YOUR FILES..txtRansom message:
notes/NK_ IN YOUR FILES..txt
BA_ IN YOUR FILES..txtRansom message:
notes/BA_ IN YOUR FILES..txt
VO_ IN DOCUMENTS..txtElastio Can Help You
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About This Analysis
This SQ_ ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like SQ_.
Last updated: July 30, 2025