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
How SQ_ ransomware works
File encryption patterns
SQ_ modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, SQ_ displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/NK_ IN YOUR FILES..txt
notes/BA_ IN YOUR FILES..txt
About this analysis
This SQ_ 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 SQ_.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects SQ_ inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify SQ_ 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.
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