{"id":283320,"date":"2024-05-05T06:35:43","date_gmt":"2024-05-05T06:35:43","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/?p=283320"},"modified":"2024-05-05T06:38:13","modified_gmt":"2024-05-05T06:38:13","slug":"qepi","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/qepi\/","title":{"rendered":"QEPI Ransomware Virus: How It Works &#038; What To Do If Infected"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ransomware attacks have been on the rise, inflicting damage and extorting money from victims globally. The latest emerging threat is a new variant called QEPI ransomware. This insidious cyberattack encrypts personal files on infected devices and restricts access until a ransom is paid.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3660426510\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309684--placement_360520\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3957935887\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This comprehensive guide will provide an in-depth look at QEPI ransomware, how it works, detection signs, and most importantly, what you can do if you become a victim. With the right preventative measures and recovery steps, the impact of this virus can be minimized.<\/p>\n\n\n<div class=\"wp-block-image\">\n<figure class=\"aligncenter size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"290\" height=\"306\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/QEPI-Ransomware-Virus.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-283324\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/QEPI-Ransomware-Virus.jpg 290w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/QEPI-Ransomware-Virus-284x300.jpg 284w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 290px) 100vw, 290px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/div>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-gallery has-nested-images columns-default is-cropped wp-block-gallery-1 is-layout-flex wp-block-gallery-is-layout-flex\">\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"469\" data-id=\"163436\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/STOP-DJVU-Ransowmare-Note-2023-1024x469.jpg\" alt=\"Image: Support@Freshmail.top email ransom note\" class=\"wp-image-163436\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/STOP-DJVU-Ransowmare-Note-2023-1024x469.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/STOP-DJVU-Ransowmare-Note-2023-300x137.jpg 300w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2023\/01\/STOP-DJVU-Ransowmare-Note-2023.jpg 1209w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/figure>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad468615775\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309746-ad_309691-placement_360521\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"4456629336\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Overview of QEPI Ransomware<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware is the newest version of the notorious STOP\/DJVU ransomware family. It uses robust encryption algorithms to lock files and appends the .QEPI extension to encrypted filenames. Once infected, victims cannot open their files, including documents, images, videos, and more.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3058139057\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381396-ad_309691-placement_360566\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"1471373341\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ransomware then displays a ransom note named _readme.txt with payment instructions. It demands payment in Bitcoin cryptocurrency to allegedly send a decryption key for restoring file access. If users see the .QEPI extension added to inaccessible files, it signifies an active infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI joins the ranks of the most harmful ransomware threats. It can lead to permanent data loss if proper precautions are not exercised. Understanding how it spreads, encrypts, and demands payment is crucial to protect yourself.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Infection Vectors<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware uses various infection mediums to compromise devices:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad1907334699\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309686-ad_309691-placement_360569\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6935453015\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Malicious email attachments (invoices, shipping notices)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Infected software installers and crack tools<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Compromised websites and deceitful ads\/pop-ups<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>External drives containing malware<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once executed on a system, the ransomware runs a scan searching for specific file types like documents, images, videos, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Encryption Process<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">During the encryption phase, QEPI ransomware targets and encrypts selected file types using a symmetric AES algorithm. A unique encryption key is generated to lock each file.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The original files are deleted, leaving only encrypted versions with the .QEPI extension appended. This prevents any program from opening them, essentially holding your data hostage.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad2828891892\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381401-ad_309691-placement_360573\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5315249587\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Ransom Demands<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">With files encrypted, QEPI displays a _readme.txt ransom note with payment instructions:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Contact the developers at support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Visit the payment website to purchase a decryptor tool<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Pay the ransom in Bitcoin cryptocurrency<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ransom starts at $490 worth of Bitcoin and increases to $980 if not paid promptly<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The note claims only they can provide the decryption key to restore data access. But even paying does not guarantee file recovery.<\/p>\n\n\n<p>This is the ransom note that the QEPI ransomware will show to its victims:<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3163288191\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381404-ad_309691-placement_381406\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8735619847\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n<blockquote>\n<p>ATTENTION!<\/p>\n<p>Don&#8217;t worry, you can return all your files!<br \/>All your files like pictures, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.<br \/>The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.<br \/>This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.<br \/>What guarantees you have?<br \/>You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.<br \/>But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.<br \/>You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:<br \/>https:\/\/we.tl\/t-oTIha7SI4s<br \/>Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.<br \/>Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that&#8217;s price for you is $490.<br \/>Please note that you&#8217;ll never restore your data without payment.<br \/>Check your e-mail &#8220;Spam&#8221; or &#8220;Junk&#8221; folder if you don&#8217;t get answer more than 6 hours.<\/p>\n<p>To get this software you need write on our e-mail:<br \/>support@fishmail.top<\/p>\n<p>Reserve e-mail address to contact us:<br \/>datarestorehelp@airmail.cc<\/p>\n<\/blockquote>\n<p>Here is a summary of the QEPI ransomware:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Ransomware family<\/strong>: STOP\/DJVU ransomware<\/li>\n<li><strong>Extensions<\/strong>: .QEPI<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ransomware note<\/strong>: _readme.txt<\/li>\n<li><strong>Ransom<\/strong>: From $490 to $980 (in Bitcoins)<\/li>\n<li><strong>Contact<\/strong>: support@fishmail.top and datarestorehelp@airmail.cc emails<\/li>\n<li><strong>Symptoms<\/strong>: The images, videos, and other documents have the &#8220;.QEPI&#8221; extension and cannot be opened by any programs<\/li>\n<li><strong>File recovery<\/strong>: Unfortunately, it is not currently possible to decrypt the files encrypted by the QEPI ransomware. It may, though, be possible in the future if the decryption keys are recovered from the cybercriminals\u2019 servers. Therefore, if you do not plan on paying the ransom, it is advised that you make an image of the encrypted drives so that you can decrypt them in the future.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad445890218\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309747-ad_309691-placement_360587\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9589536513\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How QEPI Ransomware Works<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Now let&#8217;s explore the step-by-step process of how a QEPI ransomware attack unfolds:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Initial Compromise<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">An infection begins by compromising a vulnerable system through an infected email attachment, malicious ad, compromised site, or other vector. Once clicked or accessed, the malicious payload secretly downloads.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3153045441\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360582-ad_309691-placement_360581\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"9971336976\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Malware Execution<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The malware payload then executes on the system, initiating the QEPI ransomware infection. It utilizes evasion techniques to avoid detection by antivirus software.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Environment Reconnaissance<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI scans the infected system&#8217;s environment, gathering information like the operating system version, system language, computer name, and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Internal Network Propagation (Optional)<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If connected to a larger network, QEPI may attempt to spread laterally to infect more devices and servers. It leverages techniques like SMB exploitation.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad858449849\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360567-ad_309691-placement_360771\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6224621518\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Targeted Encryption<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI initiates an encryption loop, scanning for and encrypting high-value files like documents, images, videos, databases, and source code. Each file is encrypted with a unique key.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Appending New Extension<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The original files are deleted after encryption. The encrypted versions receive the .QEPI extension appended to the filenames.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Ransom Note Deployment<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ransomware drops _readme.txt containing payment instructions to allegedly decrypt files by purchasing a tool from the attackers.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad548899527\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360571-ad_309691-placement_360772\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"5867729999\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Persistence Mechanisms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">To maintain access, QEPI deploys persistence techniques like creating registry run keys and scheduled tasks to execute on system reboots.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Command &amp; Control Communication<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Finally, QEPI contacts the command &amp; control servers operated by the threat actors to report a successful infection and transmit data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">This multi-stage attack chain allows QEPI to infiltrate systems, encrypt data, and demand ransom payments. Understanding how it works can help equip you with defenses.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad3852001985\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360576-ad_309691-placement_360773\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"6594472392\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad376732079\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_309748-ad_309691-placement_360588\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3906789406\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What To Do If You Are Infected<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Falling victim to QEPI can be devastating but do not panic. There are steps you can take to handle the infection and work to recover files. Here are tips if your system is compromised:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">1. Isolate the Infected Device<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Disconnect the infected computer from any networks or external devices immediately. This prevents further spreading of the ransomware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">2. Take Photos of the Ransom Note<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Photograph any ransom notes or payment instructions that appear. Save this evidence in case it disappears during deeper analysis.<\/p><div id=\"mwtad465785049\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360583-ad_309691-placement_360774\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"8849826992\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">3. Check for Encrypted Files<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Search for file types like DOC, JPG, PDF that now have the .QEPI extension. This confirms the presence of file encryption.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">4. Report the Crime<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Contact law enforcement and cybersecurity authorities to report the ransomware attack. Provide any evidence like the ransom note.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">5. Seek Help from IT Security Firms<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad435708672\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_360584-ad_309691-placement_360775\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3952847241\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Engage IT security firms that specialize in ransomware attacks. They may assist with remediation and file recovery efforts.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">6. Avoid Paying the Ransom<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">As difficult as it may be, avoid paying the ransom. There are no guarantees you will get decryption keys or file access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">7. Restore from Backups<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Check if clean file backups exist that can restore your data. Ensure backups are disconnected from infected systems first.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">8. Use Shadow Volume\/System Restore<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If available, leverage Shadow Volume copies or System Restore to recover previous versions of encrypted files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">9. Reset Passwords and Accounts<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Once your system is clean, reset all account passwords and credentials to prevent further misuse.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">10. Monitor Accounts and Credit<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep close watch on accounts and financial statements for any fraudulent activity following an infection.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">While QEPI&#8217;s encryption is robust, taking prompt action gives you the best chance of recovering your data. Be ready with contingency plans in case of infection.<\/p>\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad4287327581\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_318930-ad_309691-placement_360589\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3818335085\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 id=\"removal\" class=\"mt_title\">Remove the QEPI ransomware and recover the files<\/h2>\n<div class=\"mt_notey\">\n<p>It&#8217;s important to understand that by starting the removal process you risk losing your files, as we cannot guarantee that you will be able to recover them. Your files may be permanently compromised when trying to remove this infection or trying to recover the encrypted documents.<br \/>We cannot be held responsible for losing your files or documents during this removal process.<\/p>\n<p>It&#8217;s recommended to create a backup image of the encrypted drives or files before proceeding with the malware removal instructions so that you can restore them if the decryption keys are recovered from the cybercriminals\u2019 servers. To create a backup for your encrypted files or drives, you can use <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/get-easeus-todo-backup-2022\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">EaseUS Todo Backup Free<\/a><\/strong>.<\/p>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"mt_noteb\">This malware removal guide may appear overwhelming due to the number of steps and numerous programs that are being used. We have only written it this way to provide clear, detailed, and easy-to-understand instructions that anyone can use to remove malware for free.<br \/>Please perform all the steps in the correct order. If you have any questions or doubts at any point, stop and <a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/windows-malware-removal-help-support.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">ask for our assistance<\/a>.<\/div>\n<div class=\"mwt_summary\">To remove the QEPI ransomware, follow these steps:<\/div>\n<ul class=\"stepsbox\">\n<li><a href=\"#safemode\"><strong>STEP 1<\/strong>: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#malwarebytes\"><strong>STEP 2<\/strong>: Use Malwarebytes to remove QEPI ransomware<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#hitmanpro\"><strong>STEP 3<\/strong>: Use HitmanPro to scan for Trojans and other malware <\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#eset\"><strong>STEP 4<\/strong>: Double-check for malware infections with ESET Online Scanner<\/a><\/li>\n<li><a href=\"#restore\"><strong>STEP 5<\/strong>: Restore the files encrypted by the QEPI ransomware<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3 id=\"safemode\" class=\"mt_blue\">STEP 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking<\/h3>\n<p>In this first step, we will start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent QEPI malicious drivers and services from loading at Windows start-up. We&#8217;re using Safe mode because it starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers.<\/p>\n\n<div class=\"su-tabs su-tabs-style-default su-tabs-mobile-stack\" data-active=\"1\" data-scroll-offset=\"0\" data-anchor-in-url=\"no\"><div class=\"su-tabs-nav\"><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Windows 11<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Windows 10<\/span><span class=\"\" data-url=\"\" data-target=\"blank\" tabindex=\"0\" role=\"button\">Windows 7<\/span><\/div><div class=\"su-tabs-panes\"><div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Windows 11\">\n<strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong> starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services, which stops most malware from loading \u2014 making it much easier to remove. First, we&#8217;ll open the Windows Recovery Environment (winRE):<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>Press <strong>Windows key + I<\/strong> to open <em>Settings<\/em>. If that doesn&#8217;t work, right-click the <strong>Start<\/strong> button and select <strong>Settings<\/strong>. Then, in the right-hand pane, click <strong>Recovery<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-129015 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Go to Windows Settings\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg 700w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-1-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Under <strong>Advanced startup<\/strong>, click <strong>Restart now<\/strong>. Save any open work first \u2014 your PC will restart immediately.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-129016 alignnone\" title=\"Click in Restart Now to Sart Windows 11 in Safe Mode\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Recovery window in Windows 10\" width=\"700\" height=\"465\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg 700w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/10\/Windows-11-Safe-Mode-Step-2-300x199.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 700px) 100vw, 700px\" \/><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Your PC will restart into the Windows Recovery Environment. From there, follow these steps to reach Safe Mode:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>On the <em>Choose an option<\/em> screen, select <strong>Troubleshoot<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90953 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 11 - Start in Safe Mode with Network\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Troubleshoot<\/em> screen, click <strong>Advanced Options<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90954 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 11 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 2\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Advanced Options<\/em> page, click <strong>Startup Settings<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90955 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 11 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 3\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Startup Settings<\/em> page, click <strong>Restart<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90956 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 11 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 4\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>After your PC restarts, you&#8217;ll see a list of startup options. Press <strong>5<\/strong> or <strong>F5<\/strong> to start <strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-105152\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1.jpg\" alt=\"Boot in Safe Mode Windows 11\" width=\"385\" height=\"520\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1.jpg 385w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1-222x300.jpg 222w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 385px) 100vw, 385px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>You&#8217;ll know you&#8217;re in Safe Mode when &#8220;Safe Mode&#8221; appears in the corners of the screen. Now continue with the next step of this guide \u2014 downloading and running Malwarebytes <em>(explained in Step 2)<\/em>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Windows 10\">\n<strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong> starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services, which stops most malware from loading \u2014 making it much easier to remove. First, we&#8217;ll open the Windows Recovery Environment (winRE):<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>Press <strong>Windows key + I<\/strong> to open <em>Settings<\/em>. If that doesn&#8217;t work, click the <strong>Start<\/strong> button and select <strong>Settings<\/strong> (the gear icon).<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-105147\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Windows-Settings.jpg\" alt=\"Go to Windows Settings\" width=\"520\" height=\"316\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Windows-Settings.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Windows-Settings-300x182.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>In the <em>Windows Settings<\/em> window, select <strong>Update &amp; Security<\/strong>, then click <strong>Recovery<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-105146\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Recovery.jpg\" alt=\"Recovery window in Windows 10\" width=\"520\" height=\"316\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Recovery.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Recovery-300x182.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Under <strong>Advanced startup<\/strong>, click <strong>Restart now<\/strong>. Save any open work first \u2014 your PC will restart immediately.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-105145\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Advance-Startup.jpg\" alt=\"Open Advance Startup\" width=\"520\" height=\"316\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Advance-Startup.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Advance-Startup-300x182.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p>Your PC will restart into the Windows Recovery Environment. From there, follow these steps to reach Safe Mode:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>On the <em>Choose an option<\/em> screen, select <strong>Troubleshoot<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90953 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 10 - Start in Safe Mode with Network\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-1-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Troubleshoot<\/em> screen, click <strong>Advanced Options<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90954 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 10 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 2\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-2-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Advanced Options<\/em> page, click <strong>Startup Settings<\/strong>. (On Windows 8, this option is labeled <strong>Windows Startup Settings<\/strong>.)<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90955 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 10 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 3\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-3-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Startup Settings<\/em> page, click <strong>Restart<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-90956 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4.jpg\" alt=\"Windows 10 - Start in Safe Mode with Network - Step 4\" width=\"520\" height=\"293\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4.jpg 520w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/03\/Windows-10-Safe-Mode-Step-4-300x169.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 520px) 100vw, 520px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>After your PC restarts, you&#8217;ll see a list of startup options. Press <strong>5<\/strong> or <strong>F5<\/strong> to start <strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-105152\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1.jpg\" alt=\"Boot in Safe Mode Windows 10\" width=\"385\" height=\"520\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1.jpg 385w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2020\/03\/Boot-in-Safe-Mode-Windows-10-1-222x300.jpg 222w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 385px) 100vw, 385px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>You&#8217;ll know you&#8217;re in Safe Mode when &#8220;Safe Mode&#8221; appears in the corners of the screen. Now continue with the next step of this guide \u2014 downloading and running Malwarebytes <em>(explained in Step 2)<\/em>.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div>\n<div class=\"su-tabs-pane su-u-clearfix su-u-trim\" data-title=\"Windows 7\">\n<strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong> starts Windows with only the essential drivers and services, which stops most malware from loading \u2014 making it much easier to remove. Here&#8217;s how to get there on Windows 7:<\/p>\n<ol class=\"mwt_detailed_steps\">\n<li>Remove any CDs, DVDs, or USB drives from your computer, then <strong>restart it<\/strong>.<\/li>\n<li>As soon as the computer starts (when the hardware information appears on screen), <strong>press the F8 key repeatedly<\/strong> until the <strong>Advanced Boot Options<\/strong> menu appears. If Windows starts normally instead, you pressed F8 too late \u2014 restart and try again.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-51037 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/F8-Safe-Mode.png\" alt=\"F8 Safe Mode\" width=\"512\" height=\"384\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/F8-Safe-Mode.png 512w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/F8-Safe-Mode-300x225.png 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 512px) 100vw, 512px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>On the <em>Advanced Boot Options<\/em> screen, use the arrow keys to highlight <strong>Safe Mode with Networking<\/strong>, then press <strong>Enter<\/strong>.<br \/>\n<img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-50963 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/safemode.jpg\" alt=\"Safe Mode with Networking screen\" width=\"539\" height=\"292\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/safemode.jpg 539w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2016\/05\/safemode-300x163.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 539px) 100vw, 539px\" \/><\/li>\n<li>Once you&#8217;re in Safe Mode with Networking, continue with the next step of this guide \u2014 downloading and running Malwarebytes <em>(explained in Step 2)<\/em>.\n<div class=\"mt_noteb\">Can&#8217;t get into Safe Mode with Networking? No problem \u2014 you can run the Malwarebytes scan in normal mode instead and continue the guide from there.<\/div>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<\/div><\/div><\/div>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n<h3 id=\"malwarebytes\" class=\"mt_blue\">STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove QEPI ransomware<\/h3>\n<p>While the computer is in Safe Mode with Networking, we will download, install and run a system scan with Malwarebytes.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>Malwarebytes<\/strong> is one of the most popular and trusted anti-malware tools for Windows \u2014 and it&#8217;s completely free for removing infections. It catches threats that many antivirus programs miss, including adware, browser hijackers, and trojans. Follow the steps below to scan and clean your PC in just a few minutes.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Malwarebytes<\/p> <p>Click the button below to download the latest version of <strong>Malwarebytes for Windows<\/strong> from the official source. The free version is all you need \u2014 it will scan your computer and remove adware, browser hijackers, and other malicious software at no cost.<\/p> <div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" title=\"Malwarebytes Icon\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-81150 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/Malwarebytes-LOGO.png\" alt=\"Malwarebytes Logo\"\/><\/figure> <strong><a class=\"\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/downloads\/MBSetup-076886.076886-consumer.exe\" onclick=\"window.open('https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/malwarebytes-free');\">DOWNLOAD MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS (FREE)<br \/>\n<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li> <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install Malwarebytes<\/p>\n\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <strong>Downloads<\/strong> folder and <strong>double-click the MBSetup file<\/strong>. If Windows shows a <strong>User Account Control<\/strong> pop-up, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to allow the installation.<\/p>\n\n \n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"975\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285934\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1.jpg 975w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM1-300x154.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 975px) 100vw, 975px\" \/><\/figure>\n \n\n \n  \n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes<\/p> \n\n<p>The setup wizard will walk you through a few quick screens:<\/p>\n\n<ul>\n \n  <li>\n    <p>Choose where you&#8217;re installing the program \u2014 &#8220;<strong>Personal Computer<\/strong>&#8221; or &#8220;<strong>Work Computer<\/strong>&#8221; \u2014 then click <strong>Next<\/strong>.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"737\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285953\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1.jpg 737w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM3-1-300x204.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 737px) 100vw, 737px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>Malwarebytes will now install on your device. This usually takes under a minute.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"759\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285937\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4.jpg 759w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM4-300x198.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 759px) 100vw, 759px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>When installation is complete, the &#8220;<strong>Welcome to Malwarebytes<\/strong>&#8221; screen will open automatically.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"705\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285951\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1.jpg 705w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM6-1-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 705px) 100vw, 705px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n  <li>\n    <p>On the final screen, click <strong>Open Malwarebytes<\/strong> to launch the program.<\/p>\n    \n    <figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\">\n      <img decoding=\"async\" width=\"749\" height=\"500\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285952\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1.jpg 749w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM5-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 749px) 100vw, 749px\" \/>\n    <\/figure>\n    \n  <\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Enable &#8220;Scan for Rootkits&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>Before scanning, turn on rootkit detection so Malwarebytes can find even the most hidden threats. Click the <strong>Settings<\/strong> gear icon on the left side of the screen.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285942\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM8-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>In the settings menu, find &#8220;<strong>Scan for rootkits<\/strong>&#8221; and click the toggle so it turns blue.\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"841\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285943\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9.jpg 841w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM9-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 841px) 100vw, 841px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p>\n\n\n\n<p>Done? Click &#8220;<strong>Dashboard<\/strong>&#8221; in the left pane to return to the main screen.\n\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start the Scan<\/p> <p>Click the blue <strong>Scan<\/strong> button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its virus database and start checking your computer for malware.<\/p>\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"849\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285941\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10.jpg 849w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM10-300x212.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 849px) 100vw, 849px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>The scan checks your entire system for browser hijackers and other malicious programs, so it can take several minutes. Feel free to do something else \u2014 just check back occasionally to see the progress.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285944\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM11-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Quarantine the Detected Threats<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, you&#8217;ll see a list of everything Malwarebytes found \u2014 malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. Click the &#8220;<strong>Quarantine<\/strong>&#8221; button to remove all of them at once.<\/p>\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285945\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM12-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n<p>Malwarebytes will now remove the malicious files and registry entries and move them safely into quarantine.\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"842\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285946\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13.jpg 842w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM13-300x214.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 842px) 100vw, 842px\" \/><\/figure>\n <\/p><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n  <p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Restart Your Computer<\/p>\n  <p>Some threats can only be fully removed after a reboot. If Malwarebytes asks you to restart, click <strong>Yes<\/strong>. Once you&#8217;re logged back in, your PC is clean and you can continue with the next steps in this guide.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-full\"><img decoding=\"async\" width=\"844\" height=\"600\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-285947\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14.jpg 844w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2024\/05\/MBAM14-300x213.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 844px) 100vw, 844px\" \/><\/figure>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>When the malware removal process is complete, your computer should start in normal mode (if not, simply restart your device to exit Safe Mode) and continue with the rest of the instructions. We do recommend that you run another scan with Malwarebytes once you&#8217;re in Normal mode to make sure all the malicious files were removed.<\/p>\n<hr \/>\n<h3 id=\"hitmanpro\" class=\"mt_blue\">STEP 3: Use HitmanPro to scan for Trojans and other malware<\/h3>\n<p>In this third step, while the computer is in normal back, we will download and run a scan with HitmanPro to remove the QEPI ransomware and other malicious programs.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>HitmanPro<\/strong> is a second-opinion scanner \u2014 it&#8217;s designed to catch what your main antivirus might have missed. Instead of relying on a single detection engine, it checks the behavior of files in the locations where malware usually hides. Anything suspicious gets sent to the cloud, where it&#8217;s analyzed by two of the best antivirus engines available: <strong>Bitdefender<\/strong> and <strong>Kaspersky<\/strong>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Good news: <strong>scanning is completely free, with no limits<\/strong>. You only need a license when it&#8217;s time to remove what was found \u2014 and even then, you can activate a <strong>free one-time 30-day trial<\/strong> to clean your PC at no cost. (A full license is $24.95 per year for 1 PC.)<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\"><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download HitmanPro<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download <strong>HitmanPro<\/strong>. Remember \u2014 the scan is free, so you have nothing to lose by checking your PC.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-81147 alignleft mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/06\/icon-hitmanpro.png\" alt=\"HitmanPro Logo\" width=\"38\" height=\"38\" title=\"\"><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/hitmanpro\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><strong>DOWNLOAD HITMANPRO (FREE SCAN)<\/strong><\/a><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install HitmanPro<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and double-click the file: <strong>&#8220;hitmanpro.exe&#8221;<\/strong> on 32-bit Windows, or <strong>&#8220;hitmanpro_x64.exe&#8221;<\/strong> on 64-bit Windows.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136909 alignnone\" title=\"Double-click on the HitmanPro setup file\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-HitmanPro.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on the HitmanPro file\" width=\"800\" height=\"422\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-HitmanPro.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/Download-HitmanPro-300x158.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>If a <em>User Account Control<\/em>&nbsp;pop-up asks whether HitmanPro can make changes to your device, click &#8220;<em>Yes<\/em>&#8221; to continue.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136916 alignnone\" title=\"Windows asking for permissions to run the HitmanPro setup file\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-UAC.jpg\" alt=\"Windows asking for permissions to run the HitmanPro setup \" width=\"676\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-UAC.jpg 676w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-UAC-300x222.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 676px) 100vw, 676px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the On-Screen Prompts<\/p>\n<p>On the HitmanPro start screen, click &#8220;<strong>Next<\/strong>&#8221; to begin the system scan. No lengthy setup required \u2014 it goes straight to work.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136913 alignnone\" title=\"Click Next to install HitmanPro on your computer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install.jpg\" alt=\"Click Next to install HitmanPro on your PC\" width=\"800\" height=\"639\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install-300x240.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136912 alignnone\" title=\"Click Next to finish the HitmanPro install\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install-2.jpg\" alt=\"HitmanPro final installer screen\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Install-2-300x240.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>HitmanPro will now check your computer for malicious programs. This usually takes just a few minutes thanks to its cloud-based scanning.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136915 alignnone\" title=\"HitmanPro while scanning for malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Scanning.jpg\" alt=\"HitmanPro scans your computer for any infections, adware, or potentially unwanted programs that may be present\" width=\"800\" height=\"640\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Scanning.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Scanning-300x240.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Review the Results and Click &#8220;Next&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>When the scan is done, HitmanPro will show you everything it found. Click &#8220;<strong>Next<\/strong>&#8221; to remove the detected threats.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136914 alignnone\" title=\"Click Next to remove the malware that HitmanPro has detected\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Quarantine-Malicious-Files.jpg\" alt=\"HitmanPro scan summary. Click Next to remove malware\" width=\"800\" height=\"643\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Quarantine-Malicious-Files.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Quarantine-Malicious-Files-300x241.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li><li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click &#8220;Activate Free License&#8221;<\/p>\n<p>To remove the malicious files, click the &#8220;<strong>Activate free license<\/strong>&#8221; button. This starts your <em>free 30-day trial<\/em> \u2014 no payment details needed \u2014 and unlocks the full cleanup.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-136911 alignnone\" title=\"Click on the Activate free license button to remove malware\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Activate-License.jpg\" alt=\"Click on the Activate free license button\" width=\"800\" height=\"635\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Activate-License.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/04\/HitmanPro-Activate-License-300x238.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>When the removal is complete, HitmanPro will show a summary of everything it cleaned. Click <strong>Next<\/strong>, then click <strong>Reboot<\/strong> if prompted. If there&#8217;s no reboot prompt, just click <strong>Close<\/strong> \u2014 your PC is clean.<\/p>\n<\/li><\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n<h3 id=\"eset\" class=\"mt_blue\">STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with ESET Online Scanner<\/h3>\n<p>In this fourth step, we run a scan with ESET Online Scanner to remove any leftover files from the QEPI ransomware and other malicious programs. <\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\"><strong>ESET Online Scanner<\/strong> is a free second-opinion scanner that performs a deep, full-system check for viruses, trojans, rootkits, and other malware. We use it as the final step because it&#8217;s thorough \u2014 if anything slipped past the previous scans, ESET will find it. A clean result here means your computer is malware-free.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download ESET Online Scanner<\/p>\n<p>Click the button below to download <strong>ESET Online Scanner<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/get\/esetonlinescanner\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"sponsored nofollow noopener noreferrer\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft mwt_product_icon_logo size-full wp-image-148927\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/Eset-Logo.png\" alt=\"ESET logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" title=\"\"><\/figure><strong>DOWNLOAD ESET ONLINE SCANNER (FREE)<\/strong><\/a><br \/><em>(The link opens in a new page where your download will start)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Run the Installer<\/p>\n<p>When the download finishes, open your <em>Downloads<\/em> folder and double-click &#8220;<strong>esetonlinescanner.exe<\/strong>&#8220;.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148926\" title=\"Double-click on the ESET Online Scanner setup file\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Image - Double-click on the ESET Online Scanner setup file\" width=\"800\" height=\"413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Installer.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Installer-300x155.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Install ESET Online Scanner<\/p>\n<p>On the start screen, select your language from the drop-down menu and click <strong>Get started<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148858\" title=\"Click Get Started to install ESET Online Scanner\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-1.jpg\" alt=\"Image - Click Get Started to install ESET Online Scanner\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>On the <em>Terms of use<\/em> screen, click <strong>Accept<\/strong>.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148863\" title=\"Accept Terms to Install ESET Online Scanner\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-2-1.jpg\" alt=\"Image - Accept Terms to Install ESET Online Scanner\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-2-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-2-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Choose your preferences for the <em>Customer Experience Improvement Program<\/em> and the <em>Detection feedback system<\/em> (either choice is fine), then click <strong>Continue<\/strong>.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148859\" title=\"Follow the on-screen prompts to install ESET Online Scanner\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-3.jpg\" alt=\"Image - Follow the on-screen prompts\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-3.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-3-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Start a Full Scan<\/p>\n<p>Click <strong>Full Scan<\/strong> \u2014 this checks your entire computer, not just the common hiding spots.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148860\" title=\"Start a Full Scan with ESET Online Scanner\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-4.jpg\" alt=\"Start a Full Scan with ESET Online Scanner\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-4.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-4-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>Select <strong>Enable<\/strong> for <em>Detection of Potentially Unwanted Applications<\/em> \u2014 this lets ESET catch adware and bundled junk programs, not just viruses. Then click <strong>Start scan<\/strong>.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148929\" title=\"Enable PUA Detection and Start Scan\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-Step-5.jpg\" alt=\"Image - Enable PUA Detection and Start Scan\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-Step-5.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-Step-5-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the Scan to Finish<\/p>\n<p>ESET will now check every file on your computer. Because it&#8217;s a full scan, this can take a while \u2014 often an hour or more, depending on how much data you have. Leave it running in the background and check on it from time to time.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148930\" title=\"Wait for the ESET Online Scanner scan to finish\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-6-1.jpg\" alt=\"Image- Wait for the ESET Online Scanner scan to finish\" width=\"800\" height=\"533\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-6-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Scan-6-1-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Review the Results<\/p>\n<p>When the scan completes, the <em>Found and resolved detections<\/em> screen appears. Any threats found were <strong>automatically cleaned and quarantined<\/strong> \u2014 there&#8217;s nothing extra you need to do. Click <strong>View detailed results<\/strong> if you want to see exactly what was removed.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-148933\" title=\"ESET Online Scanner malware removal\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Step-7.jpg\" alt=\"Image - ESET Online Scanner malware removal\" width=\"800\" height=\"532\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Step-7.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/09\/ESET-Step-7-300x200.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>If ESET found nothing \u2014 congratulations, your computer has passed the final check and is malware-free.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<hr \/>\n<h3 id=\"restore\" class=\"mt_blue\">STEP 5: Restore the files encrypted by the QEPI ransomware<\/h3>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, in most cases, it\u2019s not possible to recover the files encrypted by this ransomware because the private key which is needed to unlock the encrypted files is only available through the attackers. However, below we&#8217;ve listed three options you can use to try and recover your files.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div class=\"mt_noter\">Make sure you remove the malware from your computer first, otherwise, it will repeatedly lock your system or encrypt files. If you suspect that your computer is still infected with malware, you can run a free scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/downloads-emsisoft-emergency-kit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Emsisoft Emergency Kit<\/a><\/strong>.<\/div>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 1: Use Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu to restore the files<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your files were encrypted with <strong>an offline key<\/strong> there is a chance you can recover them by using Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu decryption tool. Follow the below guide to recover your files <a href=\"https:\/\/www.emsisoft.com\/ransomware-decryption-tools\/howtos\/emsisoft_howto_stopdjvu.pdf\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">using the Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu<\/strong> by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><a href=\"https:\/\/www.emsisoft.com\/ransomware-decryption-tools\/stop-djvu\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\"><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-82222 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2018\/07\/emsisoft-logo.jpg\" alt=\"Emsisoft logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" title=\"\"><\/figure><strong>EMSISOFT DECRYPTOR FOR STOP DJVU DOWNLOAD LINK<\/strong><\/a><br \/><em>(The above link will open a new web page from where you can download Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Run Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu<\/p>\n<p>When Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu has finished downloading, double-click on \u201cdecrypt_STOPDjvu.exe\u201d to run this program on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the <em>Downloads<\/em> folder.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97697 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Installer.jpg\" alt=\"Double-click on the Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu icon to decrypt the encrypted files\" width=\"356\" height=\"270\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Installer.jpg 356w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Installer-300x228.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 356px) 100vw, 356px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>You may be presented with a <em>User Account Control<\/em>&nbsp;pop-up asking if you want to allow Emsisoft to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click \u201c<em>Yes<\/em>\u201d to continue with the installation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts<\/p>\n<p>When the Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu starts, you will need to agree with the Terms and accept a disclaimer.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97699 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Terms.jpg\" alt=\"Click Yes to Continue to decrypt this ransomware\" width=\"531\" height=\"359\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Terms.jpg 531w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Terms-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 531px) 100vw, 531px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Click on &#8220;Decrypt&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Click the \u201cDecrypt\u201d button to start the decryption process. The screen will switch to a status view, informing you about the current process and decryption status of your files.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"size-full wp-image-97698 alignnone\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Scan.jpg\" alt=\"Click Decrypt to recover from this ransomware attack\" width=\"790\" height=\"587\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Scan.jpg 790w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2019\/10\/Emsisoft-Decryptor-for-STOP-Djvu-Scan-300x223.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 790px) 100vw, 790px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>The decryptor will inform you once the decryption process is finished. If you require the report for your records, you can save it by clicking the \u201cSave log\u201d button. If your system was compromised through the Windows Remote Desktop feature, we also recommend changing all passwords of all users that are allowed to login remotely and checking the local user accounts for additional accounts the attacker might have added.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If the &#8220;Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu&#8221; can&#8217;t decrypt your documents and you do not plan on paying the ransom, it is advised that you make an image of the encrypted drives so that you can decrypt them in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 2: Search for a ransomware decryption tool<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The cybersecurity community is constantly working to create ransomware decryption tools, so you can try to search these sites for updates:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/id-ransomware.malwarehunterteam.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/id-ransomware.malwarehunterteam.com\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/decrypter.emsisoft.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/decrypter.emsisoft.com\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/noransom.kaspersky.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/noransom.kaspersky.com\/<\/a><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><a href=\"https:\/\/www.avast.com\/ransomware-decryption-tools\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">https:\/\/www.avast.com\/ransomware-decryption-tools<\/a><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<h4 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Option 3: Use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free to recover the encrypted files<\/h4>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free can restore files and repair corrupted files with simple clicks. Its powerful scanning algorithms can identify and retrieve huge file type library, including all of the popular video files, audio files, photos, and document formats.<br \/>While the free version only allows you to recover 2 GB of data, this can be helpful to see if the recovery is possible and restore back the most important files from your computer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free.<\/p>\n<p>You can download <strong>EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free<\/strong>&nbsp;by clicking the link below.<\/p>\n<div class=\"mwt_download_box\"><strong><figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignleft size-full wp-image-150416 mwt_product_icon_logo\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-Logo.png\" alt=\"EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free Logo\" width=\"40\" height=\"40\" title=\"\"><\/figure><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/get-easeus-data-recovery-wizard\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">EASEUS DATA RECOVERY WIZARD FREE DOWNLOAD LINK<\/a><\/strong><br \/><em class=\"small-text-disclaimer\">(The above link will open a new page from where you can download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard)<\/em><\/div>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Double-click on the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free setup file.<\/p>\n<p>When EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the <em>Downloads<\/em> folder.<\/p>\n<figure><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150415\" title=\"EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free Installer\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-0.jpg\" alt=\"Image: EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free Installer\" width=\"800\" height=\"413\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-0.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-0-300x155.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/figure><p><\/p>\n<p>You may be presented with a <em>User Account Control<\/em>&nbsp;pop-up asking if you want to allow EaseUS to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click \u201c<em>Yes<\/em>\u201d to continue with the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free installation.<\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Follow the on-screen prompts to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.<\/p>\n<p>When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation begins, click on the &#8220;Install Now&#8221; as seen in the image below.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150403\" title=\"EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free Install Now\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-1.jpg\" alt=\"EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free Install Now\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-1.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-1-300x188.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>When your EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation completes, click the &#8220;<strong>Start Now<\/strong>&#8221; button to start the program.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150404\" title=\"Click Start Now\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-2.jpg\" alt=\"Image: Click Start Now\" width=\"800\" height=\"500\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-2.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-2-300x188.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select a location to start recovering the encrypted files.<\/p>\n<p>Choose the drive or folder where you are the encrypted files that you want to recover and click &#8220;<strong>Scan<\/strong>&#8220;.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150405\" title=\"Select a location to start recovering the encrypted files\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-3.jpg\" alt=\"Select a location to start recovering the encrypted files\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-3.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-3-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Wait for the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan to complete.<\/p>\n<p>EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard will now scan your computer files that can be restored. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150414\" title=\"Wait for the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan to complete.\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-4A.jpg\" alt=\"Image: Wait for the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan to complete.\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-4A.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-4A-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Find the files you want to recover.<\/p>\n<p>When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan is finished scanning it will show a screen that displays the files that can be recovered. This tool can recover a lot of data, use the &#8220;<strong>Filter<\/strong>&#8221; button to quickly filter specific file types and find the files that you want to recover.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150421\" title=\"Filter the Files by Type\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-8.jpg\" alt=\"Filter the Files by Type\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-8.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-8-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<p>Click the &#8220;<strong>Preview<\/strong>&#8221; button or double-click on a file for a full preview.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150423\" title=\"Click Preview to view the file\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-9.jpg\" alt=\"Image: Click Preview to view the file\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-9.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-9-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>\n<p class=\"mwt_quick_overview\">Select your files and click &#8220;Recover&#8221;.<\/p>\n<p>Finally, select the the files you want to recover and click &#8220;<strong>Recover<\/strong>&#8220;.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150407\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-5.jpg\" alt=\"Select your files and click Recover\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" title=\"\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-5.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-5-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><br \/>Choose a safe location to save all the files.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150408\" title=\"Select a safe location\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-6.jpg\" alt=\"Select a safe location\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-6.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-6-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><br \/>The free version only allow you to recover 2 GB of data, however, this will allow you to recover the most important files and see if EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can correctly recover them.<br \/><img decoding=\"async\" class=\"alignnone size-full wp-image-150409\" title=\"View Recovered Files\" src=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-7.jpg\" alt=\"Image: View Recovered Files\" width=\"800\" height=\"542\" srcset=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-7.jpg 800w, https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-content\/uploads\/2022\/10\/EaseUS-Data-Recovery-Wizard-Free-7-300x203.jpg 300w\" sizes=\"(max-width: 800px) 100vw, 800px\" \/><\/p>\n<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n<p>Your computer should now be free of the QEPI ransomware infection and other malware.<\/p>\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.<br \/>If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Run a computer scan with <strong><a href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/downloads-emsisoft-emergency-kit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Emsisoft Emergency Kit<\/a><\/strong><\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Ask for help in our <strong><a title=\"Malware Removal Assistance for Windows\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/forums\/malware-removal-assistance-for-windows.10\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">Malware Removal Assistance for Windows<\/a><\/strong> forum.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3952873192\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381388-ad_309691-placement_381390\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"3191649120\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Frequently Asked Questions About the QEPI Ransomware Scam<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Ransomware attacks like QEPI are becoming increasingly common, inflicting heavy losses on individuals and businesses. If you&#8217;ve fallen victim to this insidious scam, you likely have many questions and concerns. This FAQ guide provides answers to the most common queries regarding QEPI ransomware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the QEPI ransomware?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI is a variant of the notorious STOP\/DJVU ransomware family. It&#8217;s a file-encrypting malware that locks down your personal photos, documents, databases and other critical files by appending the <code>.QEPI<\/code> extension to filenames. Victims cannot access the encrypted data until they pay the hefty ransom demanded.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How does the QEPI ransomware infect your computer?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware uses various techniques to infiltrate systems, including phishing emails, infected downloads, compromised websites, malvertising and exploiting weak Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) passwords.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What types of files does QEPI ransomware encrypt?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware targets and encrypts crucial file types and extensions like Office documents (.doc, .xls, .ppt), photos (.jpg, .png, .tiff), PDFs, videos, databases and more.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Can I recover my files encrypted by QEPI without paying ransom?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Unfortunately, the robust encryption used by QEPI makes direct decryption of files difficult currently. Your best options are restoring files from backups unaffected by the attack or waiting for free decryption tools in the future.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What is the ransom note displayed by QEPI ransomware?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware drops the <code>_readme.txt<\/code> ransom note on the Windows desktop post-encryption. This contains payment instructions and demands $490-$980 in Bitcoin to restore file access.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What contact email addresses does QEPI ransomware provide?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">The ransom note provides the <code>support@fishmail.top<\/code> and <code>datarestorehelp@airmail.cc<\/code> email addresses to contact the malware authors for file decryption after payment.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<div id=\"mwtad3410012906\" class=\"gas_fallback-ad_381392-ad_309691-placement_381395\" style=\"margin-top: 30px;margin-bottom: 30px;\"><script async src=\"\/\/pagead2.googlesyndication.com\/pagead\/js\/adsbygoogle.js?client=ca-pub-7750719144850257\" crossorigin=\"anonymous\"><\/script><ins class=\"adsbygoogle\" style=\"display:block;\" data-ad-client=\"ca-pub-7750719144850257\" \ndata-ad-slot=\"2944237110\" \ndata-ad-format=\"auto\" data-full-width-responsive=\"true\"><\/ins>\n<script> \n(adsbygoogle = window.adsbygoogle || []).push({}); \n<\/script>\n<\/div><h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Should I pay the ransom amount demanded by QEPI ransomware?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Security experts strongly advise against paying the ransom, as it incentivizes cybercriminals without any guarantee you&#8217;ll regain file access. Focus on restoring encrypted files through backups instead.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">How can I recover and remove QEPI ransomware from my system?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Isolate your infected device immediately and use reputed antivirus software to eliminate the malware. Restore encrypted files from backups if possible, or wait for decryption tools. Also strengthen system defenses going forward.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What security measures can I take to prevent QEPI ransomware infection?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Keep your software updated and use robust antivirus protection. Exercise caution with emails and downloads. Maintain regular backups of important data. Restrict folder permissions and enable firewalls to prevent unauthorized network activity.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">Who should I contact if infected with QEPI ransomware?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Promptly report infections to cybersecurity authorities and law enforcement agencies. Engage professional incident response teams to contain the attack, safely restore data, and implement improved defenses against ransomware.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\">What should businesses do to protect against QEPI ransomware?<\/h3>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Businesses should implement comprehensive security like multi-factor authentication, advanced endpoint protection, firewalls, staff security training and regular backups to defend against QEPI and other ransomware effectively.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Let me know if you need any clarification or have additional questions!<\/p>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\">The Bottom Line<\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">QEPI ransomware represents a dangerous new threat capable of inflicting damage through robust encryption tactics. Understanding this malware family provides the knowledge to secure your systems and data.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">If compromised, remain calm and utilize the right resources to disable the infection. Avoid paying ransoms, as there are no guarantees. With vigilance and safe computing, the devastating impact of ransomware like QEPI can be minimized.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p class=\"wp-block-paragraph\">Protect yourself with layered security, updated systems, and offline backups. And ensure everyone is trained to identify threats like phishing emails that distribute ransomware. With cooperation, education, and research, we can fight back against ransomware attackers.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Ransomware attacks have been on the rise, inflicting damage and extorting money from victims globally. The latest emerging threat is a new variant called QEPI ransomware. This insidious cyberattack encrypts personal files on infected devices &#8230; <\/p>\n<p class=\"read-more-container\"><a title=\"QEPI Ransomware Virus: How It Works &#038; What To Do If Infected\" class=\"read-more button\" href=\"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/qepi\/#more-283320\" aria-label=\"Read more about QEPI Ransomware Virus: How It Works &#038; What To Do If Infected\">Read more<\/a><\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":283324,"comment_status":"closed","ping_status":"closed","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[2727],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-283320","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-ransomware","masonry-post","generate-columns","tablet-grid-50","mobile-grid-100","grid-parent","grid-50","resize-featured-image"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/283320","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=283320"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/283320\/revisions"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media\/283324"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=283320"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=283320"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/malwaretips.com\/blogs\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=283320"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}