Cdqw Ransomware is a type of malicious software that encrypts files on a victim’s computer, rendering them inaccessible. It is part of the STOP/Djvu Ransomware family, which is known for targeting Windows systems.
Cdqw Ransomware typically infects computers through various methods including spam email attachments, malicious downloads from untrustworthy websites, fake software updates, or exploit kits. Once installed, it starts scanning the system for files to encrypt.
The ransomware appends a unique extension to each encrypted file, typically consisting of a combination of random characters followed by “.cdqw”. For example, a file named “document.docx” may become “document.docx.cdqw” after encryption.
The encryption method employed by Cdqw Ransomware is a combination of AES and RSA algorithms. AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) is used to encrypt the actual file content, while RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman) is used to encrypt the AES key, making it difficult to decrypt the files without the corresponding decryption key.
After completing the encryption process, Cdqw Ransomware generates a ransom note named “_readme.txt”. This text file is typically placed in each affected folder and on the desktop. The ransom note provides instructions on how to contact the cybercriminals, usually through email addresses, to obtain the decryption key. They also demand a ransom payment in cryptocurrency (such as Bitcoin) in exchange for the decryption tool.
As of now, there is no known decryption tool specifically designed for Cdqw Ransomware. However, Emsisoft, a cybersecurity company, has developed a decryption tool called “STOP Djvu Decryptor” that can decrypt files encrypted by some variants of the STOP/Djvu Ransomware. However, it may not work for all versions, including Cdqw Ransomware. It is always recommended to regularly backup important files and seek assistance from cybersecurity professionals or reputable organizations for the best course of action in case of a ransomware attack.
To decrypt files encrypted by Cdqw Ransomware or any other version of the STOP/Djvu Ransomware not supported by the available decryptor tools, it is currently not possible without the decryption key provided by the cybercriminals.