What Is Wintz Ransomware?
Wintz ransomware is one of the latest variants of the Chaos ransomware family, currently active in the wild. The ransomware infiltrates systems and encrypts files, appending an extension of four random characters. A file encrypted by Wintz looks like this – nameoffile.png.anht. Each encrypted file receives unique random characters. The ransom note dropped by this Chaos variant is a file called “read_it.txt”.
What should you do if your computer is attacked by the Wintz ransomware? This article will provide you with the necessary information. The last section provides ransomware removal instructions and possible data recovery methods.
Threat Summary
| Name | Wintz ransomware |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files by appending an extension of four random characters. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, System vulnerabilities; Infected torrents; Exposed RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) services |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Wintz Ransomware – Distribution and Impact
The so-called Chaos ransomware is a cryptovirus, which is a strain of the infamous RYUK ransomware. Similar to other Ryuk variants, the Wintz threat can be released in campaigns that aim to deliver it with the help of intrusive and very effective mechanisms. Malspam, malvertising, freeware installers, fake software update notifications, and corrupted web pages may be utilized. The most preferred spread method is believed to be malspam as it could spread the threat on a large scale. Massive email spam campaigns are likely to be targeting computer users worldwide.
The criminals behind Ryuk Ransomware have been reported to launch campaigns against various organizations, including vulnerable institutions such as hospitals.
What happens when the Wintz ransomware runs on a computer system is a complex attack of several stages. By executing a long sequence of malicious processes, the ransomware evades detection, misuses main system functionalities, and eventually encodes valuable personal files.
As a part of the RYUK/Chaos ransomware family, the Wintz virus encrypts target files by utilizing a biult-in cipher module that is programmed to transform target files with a sophisticated algorithm. The Wintz virus is likely to target the most common user data:
- Documents;
- Databases;
- Multimedia Files;
- Archives;
- Backups;
- Restore Points & System Data.
Due to changes applied to files’ original code, encoded files remain inaccessible until their code is reverted back to its original state. This version of the ransomware appends a different extension on each encrypted file. It adds a string of a few random characters to the names of all encrypted files.
Ransom Note
Cybercriminals who stand behind Wintz ransomware attacks aim to blackmail victims into paying a ransom fee for a decryption tool. Their demands are presented by a ransom note (read_it.txt) which states the following:
Wintz Ransomware Group & Partners | EST: 2016
>>> What happens?
Your computers and servers are encrypted, private data was downloaded.
We need only money, after payment we will give you a decryptor for the entire network and you will restore all the data.>>> Data leak
First of all we have downloaded the entirety of your machine; quite litteraly everything.
Including cookies, passwords, all files & anything else of meaning.If you fail to pay the desired ransomware within the time period provided your information
will be sold on the darknet.The data is preloaded and will be published if you do not contact us.
>>> What guarantees?
We are not a politically motivated group and we do not need anything other than your money.
If you pay, we will provide you the programs for decryption and we will delete your data.
If we do not give you decrypters or we do not delete your data, no one will pay us in the future, this does not comply with our goals.
We always keep our promises.
Encrypted Files
Files encrypted by Wintz ransomware are impossible to decrypt without the right decryption software. Money transfers are accepted in Bitcoin only. If you pay the ransom and then start waiting for the decryption software that will unlock your files, you can wait forever. There is never a guarantee that hackers will act as promised. That’s why we recommend that you refrain from transferring money to cybercriminals’ wallets.
For the sake of your security, it is advisable to remove Wintz ransomware from the operating system and consider the help of alternative data recovery methods.
Remove Wintz Virus (Ryuk/Chaos Ransomware)
The so-called Wintz ransomware virus is a threat with highly complex code that heavily damages both essential system settings and valuable data. So, the only way to use your infected system securely again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For this purpose, you could follow our step-by-step removal guide.
In the event that you want to attempt to restore encrypted files with the help of alternative data recovery methods, check step four – Try to Restore files encrypted by Wintz virus. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
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Step 1: Scan for Wintz ransomware with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Wintz ransomware and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Wintz ransomware on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Wintz ransomware there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Wintz ransomware
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Wintz ransomware.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Wintz ransomware aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Wintz ransomware-FAQ
What is Wintz ransomware Ransomware?
Wintz ransomware is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Wintz ransomware Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Wintz ransomware Infect?
Via several ways.Wintz ransomware Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Wintz ransomware is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Wintz ransomware files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Wintz ransomware files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Wintz ransomware files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Wintz ransomware" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Wintz ransomware files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Wintz ransomware Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Wintz ransomware ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Wintz ransomware files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Wintz ransomware Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Wintz ransomware Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Wintz ransomware how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Wintz ransomware ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
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