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
How ZQ ransomware works
File encryption patterns
ZQ modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, ZQ displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/{HELP_DECRYPT}.txtnotes/{HELP24DECRYPT}.txtRecovery and decryption tools
Decryption tools may be available for ZQ. Review the resources below:
About this analysis
This ZQ 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 ZQ.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects ZQ inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify ZQ 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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