This article aims to assist you in showing how to remove the newly discovered variant of Amnesia ransomware virus’s second variant and how to restore files encrypted by it, that have the .am file extension added to them.
The second variant of the previously detected Amnesia ransomware has been detected to perform various malicious activities on users’ computers. The malware has been reported to use sophisticated encryption in order to render the files on the computers that have been infected by it to no longer being able to be opened state. After doing so, the Amnesia 2 ransomware leaves behind the files of victims encrypted with an added .am file extension after their original names. In addition to this, the ransomware may drop a ransom note, which aims to extort victims into paying a hefty ransom fee in order to get the encrypted files decoded and working again. In the event that your computer has been infected by the .am extension variant of Amnesia ransomware, we recommend that you read the following article and learn how to remove Amnesia 2 and how to restore .am encrypted files.
Threat Summary
| Name | Amnesia 2 |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | New variant of Amnesia ransomware. Encrypt the files on the infected computer and asks for a ransom to be paid in order to decrypt them and get them to work again. |
| Symptoms | The virus encrypts the files on the computers which it infects successfully and then drops a ransom note plus leaves the files with the .am file extension after encryption is complete. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, Executable files |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Amnesia 2. |
| 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. |
Amnesia 2 Ransomware – How Does It Infect
The primary infection file which has been detected to be associated with this variant of Amnesia ransomware virus has been reported to be the following at VirusTotal.com:
The file may be dropped from another infection web link or file attachment which may be sent to you via e-mail. Such e-mail messages often pretend that they are completely legitimate and come from reputable companies from the likes of FedEx, DHL, PayPal, eBay and others. The e-mail messages themselves are also quite convincing, such as claiming that you have made an online purchase and must see your receipt (which is the malicious attachment) or that there is a suspicious activity on your bank account and you must click on the link they have provided for more info. If you encounter such e-mails, recommendations are to immediately check whether their content is malicious or not using services such as VirusTotal or ZipeZip.
Amnesia 2 Ransomware – More Information
When the virus was discovered in it’s first variant back in May of 2017, Amnesia had two main sub-variants of it’s first variant.
Amnesia 1.0
The very first variant of the amnesia ransomware used a ransom note, which was named HOW TO RECOVER ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT and this note included the following extortion message:
YOUR FILES ARE ENCRVPTED!
Vour personal ID: {UNIQUE ID}
Attention! What happened?
Vour documents, databases and other important data has been encrypted.
IF you want to restore Files send an email to: s1an1er111@protonmail.com
In a letter to indicate your personal identiFier (see in the beginning of this document).
Attention!
Do not attempt to remove the program or run the anti-virus tools.
attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data.
Decoders are not compatible with other users of your data, because each user’s unique encryption key.
The variant used the traditional for the virus .amnesia file extension and the files begun appearing like the following after encryption by Amnesia 1.0:
Amnesia 1.1
The second iteration of the first variant of Amnesia ransowmare had some major changes in it, starting with the ransom note demanding the exact sum of 0.5 BTC in order to purchase a decrypter for your encoded files. The ransom note had other changes in it as well, like the RECOVER-FILES.HTML name and the new contents in it:
Your files are Encrypted!
For data recovery needs decryptor.
To buy the decryptor, you must pay the cost of 0.5 Bitcoin
[Buy Decryptor] button
Free decryption as guarantee.
Before paying you can send us 1 file for free decryption.
To send a message or file use this form:
The biggest change out of all the changes happening to this virus is the fact that it renames the file completely and adds a file extension that is completely random number, for instance .03. Files encrypted by this version of Amnesia looked somewhat like the following:
Amnesia 2 (Newest Variant)
The latest variant of amnesia which, also detected by malware researcher Michael Gillespie was reported to be a bit of a buggy variant and it still renames the files of the infected computers similar to the 1.1 variant of the virus, however this time, the malware adds the .am file extension to them. After encryption with this variant of Amnesia, your files will look similar to the image below:
In addition to this, the virus also leaves behind an ENCRYPTED FILES.TXT file which contains unique keys of each encrypted file.
Thankfully, it is good to know that all the Amnesia viruses that have been detected so far are decryptable and you must not pay any form of ransom in order to decrypt them. Simply follow the instructions in the removal below in order to learn how you can use the Emsisoft Decrypter in order to decode your encoded files without paying any ransom, after removing the virus.
Amnesia 2 Ransomware – Removal
Before getting down to the decryption of your files, it is important to remove Amnesia 2 ransomware virus safely from your computer. You can do this either manually or automatically, preferably by following the removal instructions down below. They are specifically designed in order to help you delete the malicious files of this virus from your computer without damaging the encrypted files. For maximum effectiveness, malware removal experts strongly recommend to use an advanced anti-malware software which will help remove Amnesia 2 .am variant automatically from your computer.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
Follow Me:
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Amnesia 2 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Amnesia 2.
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 Amnesia 2 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.
Amnesia 2-FAQ
What is Amnesia 2 Ransomware?
Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 Infect?
Via several ways.Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 .Amnesia 2 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Amnesia 2 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 .Amnesia 2 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Amnesia 2" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Amnesia 2 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 Amnesia 2 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.