An infection with the so-called .WannaScream virus disrupts system security and leaves all valuable files encrypted. This removal guide shows detailed information about WannaScream virus as well as illustrated instructions on how to remove this ransomware from the infected PC. You will also be presented with several alternative data recovery methods.
.WannaScream Virus Files
According to the information shared by security researchers, the .WannaScream virus is a data locker ransomware that has been lurking across the web for quite some time. This threat is dubbed DarkCrypt Ransomware as well. It is designed to corrupt essential system settings with the goal to pass through several attack stages. As a result, personal files remain inaccessible. They can be recognized by the extension .WannaScream and here is why it is called .WannaScream virus files. Finally, it extorts a ransom fee for the decryption of encrypted personal files.
Techniques like spam emails, email attachments, hacked web pages, and corrupted freeware installers are likely to be utilized for the spread of .WannaScream virus. Malspam propagation technique enables hackers to spread their malicious code on a large scale and it is considered to be the main technique used for the spread of .WannaScream ransomware virus.
Threat Summary
| Name | WannaScream |
| File Extension | .WannaScream |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware designed to plague system settings, utilize strong cihper algorithm and encrypt valuable files. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with the .WannaScream extension. Ransom message insists on ransom payment for a decryption tool. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | ReadMe.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Hacked Websites |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss WannaScream. |
.WannaScream Virus Files – More About the Infection Process
In the beginning, the ransomware corrupts system settings to evade detection and hide its malicious files. Beware that when an infection with DarkCrypt ransomware occurs, some major registry keys like RUN and RUNONCE are contaminated. The reason is that their functionalities can enable it to launch malicious files every time the infected system is started. The end of the attack takes place when a ransom message pop-ups on the screen to extort a ransom fee from victims.
All initial malicious changes performed by the ransomware enable it to reach the encryption stage. During this stage, the ransomware launches a built-in cipher module to corrupt personal files. Specific folders are scanned for commonly used types of files as they are likely to store valuable user data. Every time a target file is detected, its code is transformed via a strong cipher algorithm. As a result of encryption, corrupted files receive the malicious extension .WannaScream depending on the variant that has infected your computer system.
Unfortunately, encrypted files remain inaccessible after encryption. The malicious file extension .WannaScream may appear at the end of document, music, project, database, image, video, backup, archive, and audio files.
It seems that DarkCrypt Ransomware and AWT ransomware have almost identical ransom messages. Hence, they may be released by one and the same crooks. To blackmail its victims into paying a ransom fee to hackers .WannaScream virus drops the file Readme.txt. It informs that the decryption of corrupted files can be realized after payment of a ransom fee. The full content of this file can be seen below:
[+] All Your Files Have Been Encrypted [+][-] Do You Really Want To Restore Your Files?
[+] Write Us To The E-Mail : Filemgr@tutanota.com
[+] If you did not get any response until 24 hours later,Write to this E-Mail : cryptor6@tutanota.com
[-] Write Your Unique-ID In The Title Of Your Message.
[+] Unique-ID : [redacted 8 uppercase hex] [-] You Have To Pay For Decryption In Bitcoins.
[-] The Price Depends On How Fast You Write To Us.
[-] After Payment We Will Send You The Decryption Tool
That Will Decrypt All Your Files.
_______________________________________________________[+] Free Decryption As Guarantee [+]
[-] Before Paying You Can Send Us Up To 5 Files For
Free Decryption, The Total Size Of Files Must Bee Less
Than 10MB, (Non Archived) And Files Should Not Contain
Valuable Information (Databases, Backups, Large Excel
-Sheets, Etc).
_______________________________________________________[+] How To Obtain Bitcoins [+]
[-] The Easiest Way To Buy Bitcoins Is LocalBitcoins
Site : https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
You Have To Register, Click ‘Buy Bitcoins’, And Select
The Seller By Payment Method And Price.
[-] Also You Can Find Other Places To Buy Bitcoins And
Beginners Guide Here:
https://coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins
_______________________________________________________[+] Attention! [+]
[-] Do Not Rename Encrypted Files.
[-] Do Not Try To Decrypt Your Data Using Third Party
-Software, It May Cause Permanent Data Loss.
[-] Decryption Of Your Files With The Help Of Third
Parties May Cause Increased Price (They Add Their Fee
To Our) Or You Can Become A Victim Of A Scam._____________________DARKCRYPT_Ransomware_______________________
In addition, the ransomware creates a file that contains further extortion details. Then it locks the screen by loading this file.
You should NOT under any circumstances contact cybercriminals or pay any ransom sum to them. This action does not guarantee the recovery of your encrypted files.
How to Remove .WannaScream Virus Files (DarkCrypt Ransomware)
The so-called WannaScream virus is a threat with highly complex code that heavily damages essential system settings and valuable files. So the only way to use your infected computer in a secure way again is to remove all malicious files and objects created by the ransomware. For the purpose, you should complete a specific WannaScream removal guide. The ransomware removal guide that follows reveals how to clean the virus from the system – manually and automatically. If you don’t feel quite comfortable with the manual steps, it will be better to download the presented advanced anti-malware tool as it will do the job for you.
In the event that you want to attempt to restore encrypted files check step five – Try to Restore files encrypted by WannaScream ransomware that reveals reliable alternative data recovery methods. We remind you that copies of all encrypted files should be kept on an external drive. This measure will prevent their inevitable loss.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for WannaScream with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 WannaScream
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by WannaScream.
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 WannaScream 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.
WannaScream-FAQ
What is WannaScream Ransomware?
WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 WannaScream Infect?
Via several ways.WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 .WannaScream files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .WannaScream 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 .WannaScream files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".WannaScream" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 WannaScream ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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 WannaScream Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this WannaScream 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 WannaScream 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.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.