What Is Gayn Virus
The Gayn virus, which belongs to the malicious software group known as STOP/DJVU, poses a threat to Windows systems. It employs a complex encryption process on files, adding the .gayn extension to them and presenting a ransom note. This note demands a specific payment to obtain the decryption key and regain access to the data. Failure to make the payment within the given timeframe may result in permanent loss of the files.
What Is Ransomware
Victims of ransomware, distributed through obfuscated files, deceptive emails or links, or security vulnerabilities in existing applications, are unable to access their computer or data until they provide the ransom. The files are encrypted and can only be decrypted upon payment of the ransom.
Gayn Virus – Infection Sources
The virus can be installed by exploiting vulnerabilities in the operating system or other software. It spreads through emails and websites containing malicious content, hidden files, and malicious programs.
- If received as an email attachment or URL.
- By downloading from an unreliable website.
Gayn Virus – Details
Name | Gayn virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB – more detections of this virus on VirusTotal |
File Extension | .gayn |
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 Gayn Virus ransomware encrypts files by appending the .gayn extension to them. |
Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
Detection Tool |
Check if your Mac has been affected by Wayn Virus
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Malware Removal Tool
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Gayn Virus – Impact and Actions
Upon infiltration, the ransomware’s associated payload files are inserted into specific directories.
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
- %AppData%
- %System%
- %system32%
The Gayn virus spreads its ransom notification in the form of the _readme.txt file, which contains the following text:
The Gayn virus may create Registry values in the Windows Run and RunOnce Registries.
What Are .gayn Files
The Gayn virus ransomware employs the AES encryption algorithm to render .gayn files inaccessible. To regain access to these files, you must either pay the ransom or use a reliable data recovery tool. This virus specifically targets certain file types.
- Video files (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Audio files (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Image files (.jpg, .png, etc.).
- Archive files (.zip, .rar, etc.).
- Documents of various types (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Others.
Picture.jpg.gayn
How to Open .gayn Files
If the Gayn virus ransomware is detected on your device, the first step is to remove the malicious virus and restore the files from a backup since it is not possible to access the encrypted files without paying the ransom demanded by the cybercriminals. The same approach should be followed as the top priority if DJVU ransomware is identified.
What to Do If My Files Have the .Gayn Extension?
The only guaranteed way to regain access to files encrypted by the Gayn virus ransomware is to restore them from a backup or attempt to reverse the encryption using a reliable tool. Even if a backup is not available, it is suggested to try data recovery software, although there is no guarantee of success.
Protecting Windows from Gayn in the Future
To safeguard your Windows system against the Gayn virus ransomware, it is crucial to regularly install the latest security updates and patches, keep your data secure, exercise caution while browsing online, and be mindful of the documents you download.
How to Remove The Gayn Virus
To eliminate this ransomware virus, it is recommended to follow the instructions provided in this article. Following these steps will ensure safe removal of the virus, and using a professional anti-malware program will guarantee a comprehensive scan of your system and deletion of all malicious files.
Decrypting/Fixing .gayn Files
To decrypt files encrypted by this virus, we recommend using a decryption tool designed to help recover the decryption key. This tool can be found in the STOP Ransomware decryption process.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Wayn Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Wayn Virus 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:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
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 Wayn Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Wayn Virus.
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 Wayn Virus 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.
Wayn Virus-FAQ
What is Wayn Virus Ransomware?
Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus Infect?
Via several ways.Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus 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 .Wayn Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Wayn Virus 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 .Wayn Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Wayn Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Wayn Virus 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 Wayn Virus 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.