fileHOW_TO_RECOVERY_FILES.txt
notes/HOW_TO_RECOVERY_FILES.txt
Location: EveryFolder
Ransomware Research
IQ Ransomware
IQ is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on March 1, 2021, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: HelpYou.
Quick facts
- Ransomware Family
- IQ
- First Seen
- March 1, 2021
- Known Aliases
- HelpYou
How IQ ransomware works
File modification behavior
IQ updates file modification timestamps after encryption.
File encryption patterns
IQ modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Extensions added after encryption
- .IQ_IQ
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, IQ displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with IQ ransomware:
- enc_IQ_IQ.exe
About this analysis
This IQ 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 IQ.
Detection coverage
Elastio detects IQ inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify IQ across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a hunt against your recovery points to confirm.