The AutoWannaCryV2 Virus is a test release ransomware targeting English-speaking users on a global scale. The currently released samples of it are early versions that may be updated in further iterations. Refer to our in-depth article for a technical analysis and full removal instructions.
Threat Summary
| Name | AutoWannaCryV2 |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts sensitive information on your computer system with the .wannacryv2 extensions and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The ransomware will encrypt your files with a strong encryption algorithm. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss AutoWannaCryV2. |
| 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. |
AutoWannaCryV2 Virus – Distribution Ways
The AutoWannaCryV2 virus is a new ransomware threat that has been detected in the end of July this year. According to the available reports it seeks to primarily target English-speaking users from around the world.
At this point the number of captured samples is low and this does not give out the main delivery method. The hackers behind the AutoWannaCryV2 virus can use all available methods in order to spread the danger.
One of the common tactics is the creation and coordination of email phishing campaigns. They send bulk messages in a SPAM like manner containing web elements taken from various well-known companies or services. The criminals seek to confuse the users into thinking that they have received a legitimate message. The AutoWannaCryV2 virus is usually embedded somewhere in the body contents or directly attached to these fake notification messages.
Another mechanism is the distribution of fake download sites, they attempt to mimic real-world services and portals that are frequently visited by computer users. Along with the emails they are the most popular choice for spreading infected payloads:
- Infected Documents — The criminals can leverage documents of various types (presentations, rich text files, spreadsheets) with the virus code. Once the files are downloaded and run by the victim users a notification pop-up message will be presented which prompts them to enable the built-in scripts. As soon as this is done the infection will follow.
- Installers — The same strategy can be applied to application setup packages. The hackers take the installers of famous software from the vendor official sites and bundle them with the ransomware dropper code. The users will have no clue that they are installing the virus as the application guides them through the usual setup steps.
Another dangerous scenario is the inclusion of the virus code in browser hijackers — they represent malicious browser extensions that are usually spread on the associated plugin repositories. They are advertised as useful plugin additions and makes use of fake developer credentials and user reviews.
AutoWannaCryV2 Virus – In-Depth Analysis
The AutoWannaCryV2 virus has undergone a basic security scan that shows that it is descendant from the AutoIt ransomware family. This is a common threat type that uses scripting languages and builders in order to program the virus’s operations.
The fact that the virus is written using this technology makes it very easy for the hackers to customize the behavior patterns.
An example customized version of the AutoWannaCryV2 virus can begin with a data harvesting module. It is configured to extract sensitive data about the users and their computers. This includes personally identifiable information that can be used to directly expose the victim’s identity. This includes their name, address, phone number, location, interests and passwords. Another type of data that can be acquired is information related to the campaign optimization metrics. This is a collection of information that is used to optimize the attacks and consists of information about the installed hardware components and certain operating system values.
This data can then be used by the stealth protection module which can protect the virus engine from security software. This is done by scanning the local system for signatures of anti-virus programs, debuggers and other applications that can intefere with the ransomware’s correct execution. This can result in the blocking of the real-time engines or the deletion of the program altogether.
As soon as this is done the threat may continue with further system changes. A list of some of the possible actions can include any of the following:
- Windows Registry Changes — The malicious engine can proceed with modifications to the Windows Registry. If they target the entries belonging to the operating system then the overall performance may drop. If individual applications are affected then certain functions may stop working properly.
- Persistent Installation — The AutoWannaCryV2 virus can be installed in a persistent way. This means that it will modify the boot options by disabling the ability to enter into the recovery boot menu. The threat will be automatically started once the computer is booted.
- Trojan Component — In certain cases a Trojan component can be installed and started. The most common type is the use of a hacker-controlled server which is used by the controllers. By connecting to it the criminal operator will have access to the victim system’s files. In addition this option allows the hackers to spy on the victims in real time.
- Additional Virus Installaton — The AutoWannaCryV2 virus infection can be used to deploy additional threats to the infected computers.
Other modifications can be addded at any given time by the hackers. Advanced ransomware can contact the hacker-controlled server in order to acquire newer modules.
AutoWannaCryV2 Virus — Encryption
Once all prior tasks have complete the AutoWannaCryV2 virus will launch the ransomware module. Like other similar AutoIt-based it uses a built-in list of target file type extensions. Typically they include the most popular file types:
- Archives
- Documents
- Backups
- Images
- Documents
- Videos
All affected files are renamed with the .wannacryv2 extension. Instead of a ransomware note it launches a pop-up message reading the:
All your files encrypted! By wannacryV2
Spent time on encryption: 318 seconds
The ransomware engine drops an executable program called wanna cry v2 decryptor.exe that servers as the decryption tool. The sample versions distributed by the hackers can be made into unlocking the victim files with the “123qe” string.
Remove AutoWannaCryV2 Ransomware Virus and Restore .wannacryv2 Files
If your computer got infected with the AutoWannaCryV2 ransomware virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Step 1: Scan for AutoWannaCryV2 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by AutoWannaCryV2.
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 AutoWannaCryV2 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.
AutoWannaCryV2-FAQ
What is AutoWannaCryV2 Ransomware?
AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 Infect?
Via several ways.AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 .AutoWannaCryV2 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .AutoWannaCryV2 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 .AutoWannaCryV2 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".AutoWannaCryV2" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this AutoWannaCryV2 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 AutoWannaCryV2 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.
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