Ransomware

Adoq File Virus (.adoq) Ransomware Removal and Decryption

Adoq File Virus is a dangerous file-encrypting malware. It is a new variant from Stop/Dvju Ransomware family. It can easily encrypt all your files using a powerful algorithm and then add “.adoq” extension to the end of all your files. After the encryption, it will also leave a “_readme.txt” ransom note on your system.

Adoq file virus

For example, if you have a file named “cutebaby.png” then after encryption, it will get converted into “cutebaby.png.adoq” which is locked and cannot be opened without a decryption key. The Ransom note says that all your files are locked but you can get your files back by paying ransom money for decryption tools.

Threats like Adoq keep getting back on the PC if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

What is Adoq Ransomware

Adoq is a newly detected file encrypting virus that is presenting deadly features. It is a silent intruder which can easily sneak into your computer and hide in your PC until it does its nasty file encrypting work. Creators of this dubious .Adoq File Virus is the same that created the notorious STOP(Djvu) Ransomware and ever since released new variants at regular intervals.

Hackers behind this infection have vast knowledge and experience in targeting innocent users and blackmailing them for money by encrypting their personal files. They have again launched a new variant of their malware to do the hateful work and make illegal profit online. It adds its malicious “.Adoq” file extension to the end of all your files as a lock that can only be opened through a private decryption key generated for your system.

Adoq Virus Ransom note clearly states that the only method to restore all the encrypted files is to use the decryption tool which users can only get after paying the ransom fees. They claim that there is no other way to unlock the data and they also offer proof by decrypting 1 file for free before victims pay money through BitCoin. As phony as it sounds, many victims fall for such tricks and pay the ransom but they end up getting cheated, so don’t make that mistake.

Working of Adoq Virus

Adoq Ransomware Virus is a recent malware discovery that belongs to the file-encrypting community. This dangerous threat is very much capable of intruding on your PC without you noticing or detecting its presence. You will not find out about this virus until it has encrypted all your personal data that you have stored on your computer system, then it will leave a ransom note.

This dubious .Adoq file extension virus will secretly sneak into your system with the disguise of any random .exe file and then execute its malicious process to encrypt your entire hard drive and at the end reveal its true identity by adding “.Adoq” extension to all the file names and leaving ransom note on your system. Creators of this dubious threat are only looking to make illegal money by blackmailing innocent victims and forcing them to pay money huge extortion fees to get access to their files.

 The ransomware extortion business of STOP/Djvu virus family has gained a new height because this new variant has access to all the data collected by all its previous strains. This newly found malware which is a DJVU variant is living up to its reputation and wreaking havoc as we speak about it and look for its remedy.

It will give you a choice to pay the ransom money to buy a decryption tool that allegedly can restore all your files and data to their original format. As your system is infected by .Adoq Virus, you are well aware of its evil handy work. This file-encrypting malware can lock all your personal files, videos, images, audio files, documents, databases, and even backup files if they are stored on your computer. This nasty virus can make your PC completely useless, even your anti-virus applications won’t do you any good.

Ransom Demand Of Adoq Ransomware

The encoding of .Adoq virus on victims’ PC is very real and there is no other shortcuts or easy way to unlock files without having the private decryption key. This is why hackers are demanding huge sums money of to give the decoder because they know how hard it is to unlock those encrypted files. The “Ransomware” word itself became a synonym of terror for most computer users these days. Threats like .Adoq File Virus attacks your PC and shows scary ransom notes after encrypting files to intimidate users into paying Ransom money.

This newly released variant of the DJVU virus is very active, and .Adoq virus is carrying out its attack with major severity due to all the data collected by its previous versions. It issues separate unique IDs for every user which means their decryption key will also be completely unique. So you can’t cheat this malware by purchasing one decryption key and trying to use it on multiple computers. This notorious Adoq Ransomware is demanding a whopping $980 ransom fee for the decryption key but it is also offering a 50% discount if the ransom is paid before 72 hours.

The ransom note “_Readme.txt” left by hackers has the following instructions :

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!
All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.
What guarantees you have?
You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.
You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:
hxxps://we.tl/t-aMsnHoiJcO
Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.
Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.
Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:
support@bestyourmail.ch

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:
supportsys@airmail.cc
Your personal ID:
-

Paying ransom money is not safe

If you are thinking that you can restore your data by paying ransom money to .Adoq File Virus then it could be a big mistake. One thing you should understand is that hackers are only interested in cheating your money, that’s why they are threatening to double the ransom fee in 72 hours. They are clearly trying to intimidate victims and forcing them to make a decision of paying without looking for alternate methods.

Creators of Adoq virus don’t want you to go looking for answers and seek help from experts. It is not a discount offer given by cybercriminals, it is the bait and timing is the hook. So it puts victims in a rush to pay the money and buy the decryption key at half price.

One other thing that is also very alarming is, that attackers are demanding money through BitCoin. It is a cryptocurrency that is untraceable and, there is no way to find out who got the money. In most cases, criminals often stop responding to victims’ emails as they have neither the reason for giving decryption tools nor the fear of getting caught. So you are advised to not trust the hackers, no matter how desperate you are, and don’t risk losing your money too.

Threat Analysis

Name Adoq
Type Ransomware, File-Encrypting virus
Family STOP/DJVU Ransomware
Extension .Adoq
Threat Level High (Encrypt all your data and Restrict access to your files).
Symptoms Victims cannot access any files on their PC and find Ransom notes asking for money.
Damage It will encrypt your data by adding “.Adoq” extension to file names and demand ransom money for the decryption key
Ransom Note _Readme.txt
Ransom Amount $490 USD to $980 USD
Variants Adlg, Ofww, Ofoq, Oflg, etc.
Distribution It is mainly distributed through spam emails, bundled freeware, porn, or torrent sites.
Removal Download SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware
File Recovery Download Data Recovery Software

How does your PC get infected

You need to understand that the Internet is full of threats like .Adoq virus and they are looking for cheating innocent users for making an illegal profit. Cybercriminals use various methods to spread their malicious creations online in a very short time with maximum impact.

You can see that a virus is released and soon its have infected thousands of computers in no time. It happens due to the Trojan downloaders that download malware directly on infected PC. Such Trojans are widely used for cracking software and programs. So piracy might be the biggest weapon in hands of hackers that victims give them. Using pirated software, browsing torrent or porn sites can bring threats like Adoq Ransomware on your PC without your knowledge.

Bundled freeware or shareware programs are also a great source of malware spreading because creators of freeware programs often allow third-party attachments to earn a few bucks on the side. These hidden programs don’t even need users’ permission and get installed silently. Spam emails and peer-to-peer file sharing could also bring .Adoq virus on your computer. Clicking on misleading ads, pop-ups, banners, or push notifications can redirect browsers to phishing sites and download harmful programs silently.

How to Remove Adoq File Virus

Adoq is a dangerous malware that can cause major damage to your computer. This nasty threat will bring several new problems to your PC. This is why it is quite imperative to delete this threat permanently before it completely damages your entire computer system. Once it manages to infiltrate your system, it will make your system vulnerable. This nasty malware is capable of bringing other harmful viruses to your system without your consent. It can completely obliterate your system performance in no time. This virus also has a tendency to hide its malicious copies at various locations on your PC under different names. It is not an easy job to find and remove those virus related files manually.

In this guide, you will find instructions for two very different techniques to get rid of Adoq infection. The first one is the Automatic Removal which is quite fast, effective and accurate. The second method is Manual Removal which usually takes lots of time, needs technical expertise, and often fails to give desired results. However, it is advised to take the help of both techniques to ensure the complete removal of the malware from your system. In case you are not handy with system operations and technical stuff, just opt for the automatic malware removal process to eliminate Adoq infection.

Automatic Adoq Virus Removal Guide

As you already know, Adoq Virus is a notorious and cunning malware that is quite hard to remove through manual means. This virus can keep coming back on the infected computer through files and shortcuts or settings that it has already created on your machine. Removing all those at once is the only way to get rid of this infection and stop it from getting into your system ever again.

So the best way to remove Adoq effectively is to use a powerful Automatic Removal Tool and save your time and efforts. This software is a well-trusted and very powerful anti-malware program that can detect all hidden threats like Trojan, Ransomware, Worms, Spyware, Rootkits, and many others. It also provides 24X7 customer support and one-on-one Spyware HelpDesk support for Custom Malware removal. Advanced System Guard feature detects and removes threats in real-time. It has a very User-Friendly Interface and regular Malware updates make it most effective against the latest malware attacks.

How SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware Works

  • First, you need to click on the below download button to get the software.

Geek’s Recommendation

Threats like Adoq Virus keep getting back on the machine if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.
  • Then double-click on the installer you downloaded to install the program.

SpyHunter Installeruser access control

  • Launch the Anti-Malware application and click on Start Scan Now button.

Scan for Adoq

  • The software will scan your PC for all hidden threats and viruses on your system.

Scan for Adoq

  • Click on the Next button to see results and delete all the threats and viruses.

Remove Adoq

How To Decrypt .Adoq Files

As all your files are encrypted, you need to recover your data without paying ransom money to hackers. If your files are important then you must have created a backup and you can use that backup to recover your files. If you don’t have a backup or this virus has encrypted your backup files, then you are left to seek professional help.

As there is no Adoq ransomware decryptor available, we recommend you use powerful data recovery software to decrypt Adoq virus files. It is a risk-free and smart way. You can just download the free version and scan your PC for files. There is a high probability that it can recover most of your files in a fraction of the amount that hackers are demanding. It is also needless to say that paying hackers will only motivate hackers to carry out more attacks.

  • First, you need to download Data Recovery software on your PC.

Download Data Recovery Software Now

  • Install the program, launch it then select the Data type to recover, and click the Next button.

select Data type

  • Select the location from where you want to recover data and click the Scan button.

Select location

  • After the scan, the software will list all files, select them and click the Recover button.

Recover Adoq encrypted files

Manual Adoq Removal Guide

Before you start Manual Removal

Please Bookmark This Page by pressing the {ctrl+D} button or print it out on paper before you start the Manual Removal because you may need to restart your PC or browser.) Attention! For the safety of your system, please confirm a few things before you begin manual removal:

  1. You have done this before, which means you have experience in removing the virus manually;
  2. That you know your way around PC and  all necessary processes and applications;
  3. You know about Registry entry and the Serious repercussions of any mistake;
  4. Make sure you can reverse any mistake made during virus removal.

If you don’t attain any of the above standards, then manual removal could be a very risky idea. It is most likely best for you to use the SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware which is totally secure and efficient method.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

Start PC in safe mode with networking

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type msconfig in the Run Box then click the OK button.
  • Click on the Boot tab then the System configuration window will appear.
  • Choose Safe Boot, check the network box, Click Apply, and press the OK button.

Safe boot

Kill Malicious Process From Task Manager

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type taskmgr in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Find the virus related or unknown malicious process.
  • Now right-click on it then click End process.

Stop Adoq related task

Remove Adoq Ransomware Virus from PC

  • First of all Press Windows Key + R buttons together.
  • Type appwiz.cpl in the Run box and then click the OK button.
  • Now Programs and Features windows will appear on the screen.
  • Find and remove all virus related or malicious programs.

Remove Adoq

Warning: Do not play with Windows registry, host file, or restore options if you don’t have previous experience with it. Removing the wrong files may break your system entirely. So if you are not sure, then stick to the Automatic Malware Removal option.

Compatible with: Windows 11/10/8/7 (32 Bit and 64 Bit)

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

Remove Virus related IP addresses from Hosts’ Files

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type C:\Windows\System32\drivers\etc in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Now open the host file with Notepad.
  • Look for any suspicious IP addresses that might be related to the Virus.
  • Delete all the malicious IP addresses and save the host files.

Remove Adoq virus related IP address

Remove Virus From Windows Registry Editor

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type regedit in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Registry Editor will open, then press CTRL +F buttons together.
  • Now type Adoq and then click on Find Next button.
  • Find all the related entries and delete them one by one

Remove Adoq related registry

Delete Virus related files from your PC

When a threat gets onto a PC, it most likely creates some files at different locations on the system. These files are used to perform a specific action and also help malware in getting back to the computer once it’s removed. So you just need to find also delete all those files associated with the virus. Carefully follow the below instruction :

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard
  • Type each of the following in Run Box and press the OK button
  1. %AppData%
  2. %LocalAppData%
  3. %ProgramData%
  4. %WinDir%
  5. %Temp%

For the first four options, look for any recent folder related to the .Adoq File Virus and remove them. For the Temp folder, you can delete all the files.

Remove Adoq Virus via system restore

  • Press Windows Key + R buttons together on the keyboard.
  • Type cmd in Run Box and then click the OK button.
  • Type cd restore and press Enter, then type rstrui.exe and press Enter.
  • When the System Restore window opens on your computer screen click the Next button, then choose a System Restore point you have created in the past and click the Next button.
  • Finally, click on the Yes button to start the system restoration process.

Remove Adoq via system restore

Note: This will only work if you have a restore point set on your PC or it will give an error message. Restoring the computer to a previous version may or may not remove this virus. Most of the time, viruses just delete all the restore points. If this trick does not work for you then don’t get disappointed.

Prevent Adoq Virus in Future

  • Use a good anti-virus, be it a free version but don’t use cracked security programs.
  • Make sure that your Windows firewall is active, so it can block upcoming threats.
  • Keep your Windows/Mac OS and other programs updated to avoid vulnerabilities.
  • Download updates only from official websites, don’t use suspicious sites.
  • Never download and install pirated software, games, or illegal patches on your PC.
  • Do not open spam emails from an unknown sender and scan all attachments before opening.
  • Never download freeware third-party programs from unreliable sources or websites.
  • Avoid connecting your PC to unsafe public Wi-Fi to protect your privacy.
  • You can also use a VPN to spoof your connection and avoid malicious sites.
  • Create a system restore point on your system for security purposes.
  • Keep a backup of all your important files to avoid data loss.
Still, having issues? Need help?

Threats like Adoq virus keep getting back on the PC if all associated files are not removed. So you are advised to use a powerful Malware Removal Tool to run a thorough scan of your PC and delete all threats at once.

Compatible with: Windows XP/Vista/7/8/10/11

Special Offer SpyHunter 5 Anti-Malware offers a 7-day fully-functional Free Trial. Credit card required, NO charge upfront. No charge if you cancel up to two business days before the trial period ends. Read SpyHunter 5 Review, and Free SpyHunter Remover details.

About the author

Robert Calvert

Robert is the Chief Security Expert and Founder of PCSafetyGeek.com website. He is a cybersecurity enthusiast who loves to research about Malware outbreaks and write about their remedies. He also like to spend time trying new software, reviewing them and sharing IT news. However he is a real coffee lover and likes to play chess in spare time (which is quite rare 😜).

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