The Winnix Cryptor Team have developed a ransomware virus named after themselves – Winnix Cryptor. The cryptovirus will encrypt your files while appending the extension .wnx to each file. The ransom price that is asked for decryption is 4 Bitcoins, but the price will double after five days pass. To see how to remove this ransomware and how you can try to restore your files, read the article carefully.
Threat Summary
| Name | Winnix Cryptor |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware will encrypt your files and then display a ransom note demanding 4 Bitcoins for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Your encrypted files will have the .wnx extension appended to them. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Winnix Cryptor. |
| 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. |
Winnix Cryptor Virus – Spread
The Winnix Cryptor ransomware virus can enter your PC in various ways. Spam e-mails could be spreading the file with the payload. Such spam letters are designed to sound urgent or hold some unexpected news. While your focus is pointed toward the attached file, without you checking if what you read is the truth or not, you might open the attachment. When opened, the attached file executes the malicious payload, and your personal computer gets infected.
Winnix Cryptor might infect your system in more ways. An example is when the malware makers could be spreading the files with the help of social media networks and file-sharing services. The malicious script could be hosted in a file on one of these platforms with the aim of infecting more potential victims. Before opening files from suspicious sources, first, do a scan with a security program. Also, check the signature and size of the file and see if they are in any way peculiar. You should read the ransomware prevention tips written in our forum.
Winnix Cryptor Virus – Details
The malware developers from the Winnix Cryptor Team have made a ransomware cryptovirus that they have named after themselves – Winnix Cryptor. The virus will encrypt your files and after that put the extension .wnx to every single one of them. The demanded instructions are written in a text file, right after the encryption process is set and done.
The Winnix Cryptor ransomware could create entries in the Windows Registry after its payload is executed, to achieve persistence. Those registry entries are intended to make the virus start automatically with each boot of the Windows operating system. Next, your data will become encrypted, and the ransom message will appear on your desktop. That ransom note is written inside a file called YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED!.txt.
The ransom message reads the following:
Your files are encrypted!
Your files have been safely encrypted on this PC: photos, documents, databases, etc. Encryption was produced using a unique public key generated for this computer. To decrypt files you need to obtain the private key.
The only way to get the private key is to pay 4 BTC. You saved it on qualified system administrator who could make your network safe and secure.
In order to decrypt the files send your bitcoins to the following address:
[Redacted] After you complete your payment, send an email to 6214ssxpvo@sigaint.org with YOUR ID as subject (ID is in the end of the file) and you’ll receive private key, needed software and step by step guide in 1 business day.
Offer is valid for 5 business days (expiration date is in the end of the file). AFTER TIME IS UP, PRICE DOUBLES.
No discounts, no other payment methods.
More questions?
Send an email to 6214ssxpvo@sigaint.org
ID:[Random symbols] EXP DATE: [7 days after infiltration] —
Winnix Cryptor Team
The 6214ssxpvo@sigaint.org email address is given for you to contact the cybercriminals. The ransom note demands 4 Bitcoins, which is equivalent to nearly 2900 US dollars. If five days pass without payment, the asked sum will double in price. You should NOT, in any circumstances, contact the crooks or think of paying them. Nobody can guarantee you that if you pay you will recover your files. Also, the criminals probably would use the money for developing more ransomware viruses.
The Winnix Cryptor ransomware seeks to encrypt files with over than 150 different extensions. You can see what those extensions are, right down here:
→.png, .psd, .pspimage, .tga, .thm, .tif, .tiff, .yuv, .ai, .eps, .ps, .svg, .indd, .pct, .pdf, .xlr, .xls, .xlsx, .accdb, .db, .dbf, .mdb, .pdb, .sql, .apk, .app, .bat, .cgi, .com, .exe, .gadget, .jar, .pif, .wsf, .dem, .gam, .nes, .rom, .sav, .dwg, .dxf, .gpx, .kml, .kmz, .asp, .aspx, .cer, .cfm, .csr, .css, .htm, .html, .js, .jsp, .php, .rss, .xhtml, .doc, .docx, .log, .msg, .odt, .pages, .rtf, .tex, .txt, .wpd, .wps, .csv, .dat, .ged, .key, .keychain, .pps, .ppt, .pptx, .ini, .prf, .hqx, .mim, .uue, .7z, .cbr, .deb, .gz, .pkg, .rar, .rpm, .sitx, .tar.gz, .zip, .zipx, .bin, .cue, .dmg, .iso, .mdf, .toast, .vcd, .sdf, .tar, .tax2014, .tax2015, .vcf, .xml, .aif, .iff, .m3u, .m4a, .mid, .mp3, .mpa, .wav, .wma, .3g2, .3gp, .asf, .avi, .flv, .m4v, .mov, .mp4, .mpg, .rm, .srt, .swf, .vob, .wmv, .3d, .3dm, .3ds, .max, .obj, r.bmp, .dds, .gif, .jpg,.crx, .plugin, .fnt, .fon, .otf, .ttf, .cab, .cpl, .cur, .deskthemepack, .dll, .dmp, .drv, .icns, .ico, .lnk, .sys, .cfg
The .wnx extension will get appended to the encrypted files. The encryption algorithm used is still unknown.
The Winnix Cryptor cryptovirus is likely to delete the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system with the following command:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
Read further to see what methods you can try to possibly restore some of your files.
Remove Winnix Cryptor and Restore .wnx Files
If your computer got infected with the Winnix Cryptor ransomware virus, you should have some experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as fast as possible before it can have the chance to spread further and infect more computers. You should remove the ransomware and follow the step-by-step instructions guide given below. To see ways that you can try to recover your data, see the step titled 2. Restore files encrypted by Winnix Cryptor.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Winnix Cryptor with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Winnix Cryptor.
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 Winnix Cryptor 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.
Winnix Cryptor-FAQ
What is Winnix Cryptor Ransomware?
Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor Infect?
Via several ways.Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 .Winnix Cryptor files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Winnix Cryptor 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 .Winnix Cryptor files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Winnix Cryptor" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Winnix Cryptor 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 Winnix Cryptor 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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