Ransomware Research
ZQ Ransomware
ZQ is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on March 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: W_Decrypt24.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- ZQ
- First Seen
- March 1, 2019
- Known Aliases
- W_Decrypt24
How ZQ Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
ZQ modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..zq..wsRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, ZQ displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
{HELP_DECRYPT}.txtRansom message:
notes/{HELP_DECRYPT}.txt{HELP24DECRYPT}.txtRansom message:
notes/{HELP24DECRYPT}.txtRecovery and Decryption Tools
Good news! Decryption tools are available for ZQ ransomware:
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About This Analysis
This ZQ 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 ZQ.
Last updated: October 30, 2025
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