HQ_52_42 Ransomware
HQ_52_42 is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on August 1, 2021, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: HQ.
Quick facts
How HQ_52_42 ransomware works
File encryption patterns
HQ_52_42 modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, HQ_52_42 displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/How to decrypt files.html
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with HQ_52_42 ransomware:
- HQ_52_42.exe
About this analysis
This HQ_52_42 ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like HQ_52_42.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects HQ_52_42 inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify HQ_52_42 across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.
Recent ransomware
Explore other threats in our database