Article created to demonstrate how to remove Wanna Decryptor (WannaCry) ransomware and restore files encrypted via AES and RSA encryption algorithm.
“Oops, your important files are encrypted” is what the victims of the Wanna Decryptor WannaCry virus see after their computers are infected by this virus. Once this has happened, the ransomware infection begins to append encryption algorithms and make the documents on the affected computers no longer readable. After this has happened, !Please Read Me!.txt file is dropped onto the computer of the user which aims to get victims to download a decryptor from a dropbox account. Then, the decryptor demands 300$ in BTC payoff to get the data back. In case you have become a victim of the Wanna Decryptor threat, we recommend reading this article carefully.
Update June 2017! New ransomware outbreak inspired by the WannaCry ransomware, also using “Oops your important files have been encrypted” has been detected. The virus is a modified version of Petya ransomware. More information can be found on this web link.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Wanna Decryptor |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users files using AES and RSA encryption ciphers, making direct decryption possible only via a unique decryption key available to the cyber-criminals. |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom notes and “instructions”, called !Please Read Me!.txt linking to contacting the cyber-criminals. Changes wallpaper with message asking to download a decryptor from Dropbox. The decryptor demands 300$ in BTC to work. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| 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 Wanna Decryptor. |
| 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. |
Wanna Decryptor Ransomware – How Does It Infect
For the infection with this virus to be successful, the cyber-criminals behind the Wanna Decryptor threat may use a combination of different tools and kits:
- Spamming software for e-mail.
- A pre-set list of e-mail addresses to spam, usually bought on the black market.
- Software responsible for different obfuscation of files so that detection by security software is avoided.
- Different infection malware (Downloaders, droppers, extractors, etc.)
- Malicious command and control servers and distribution hosts.
The most often-used method by which criminals like the ones behind Wanna Decryptor ransomware use is via e-mail spam. Such spam messages usually resemble different important notices, to trick users into either opening malicious e-mail attachments or clicking on links which redirect to malicious hosts. One example of such deceptive e-mail can be seen below:
After the Wanna Decryptor threat has already caused an infection by convincing the user to open the malicious attachment, the virus begins to drop it’s malicious files on the infected computer. The files which were detected so far by researchers are the following:
- !WannaDecryptor!.exe
- !WannaDecryptor!.exe.lnk
- !WannaCryptor!.bmp
- !Please Read Me!.txt
Besides these files, there may be fake process files and other support modules with random names spread out in various Windows folders such as the following:
- %AppData%
- %Temp%
- %Roaming%
- %Local%
- %SystemDrive%
Wanna Decryptor Ransomware – What Does It Do?
The activity of Wanna Decryptor is relatively the same as most ransomware viruses out there. The virus executes an administrative command which deletes all the backed up files (shadow copies) on the infected Windows machines:
→ vssadmin.exe Delete shadows /All /Quiet
Wanna Decryptor virus also performs the deletion In /quiet mode, without the user noticing anything is happening.
Then, the Wanna Decryptor ransomware may perform modifications on the following Windows Registry sub-keys:
→ HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Control Panel\Desktop\
HKEY_USERS\.DEFAULT\Control Panel\Desktop\
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
In the Run and RunOnce sub-keys, values may be added to make the malicious executable which is responsible for encrypting files to run when Windows boots. The Desktop keys, may have a modified sub-key for the wallpaper, which is later changed to the !WannaCryptor!.bmp image:
It also has the following message:
Ooops, your important files are encrypted.
If you see this text, but don’t see the “Wanna Decryptor” window, then your antivirus removed the decrypt software or you deleted it from your computer.
If you need your files, you have to recover “Wanna Decryptor” from the antivirus quarantine, or download from the address below:
hxxps://www.dropbox.com/s/c1gn29iy8erh1ks/m.rar?dl=1
Run “Wanna Decryptor” to decrypt your files!
The web link, leading to drop box may download a decryptor which looks like the following:
The decryption software demands 300$ in BitCoin to be paid to decode the files.
Wanna Decryptor Virus – The Encryption Process
For the encryption process performed by Wanna Decryptor, two powerful encryption algorithms may be used. One of them is known as the Advanced Encryption Standard and is a very often met decryptor in most ransomware viruses. The cipher is also used by some US government agencies to encrypt secret documents. It’s usage in this virus is primarily focused on encrypting files and generating symmetric key (FEK) which makes the file non readable.
Then, another encryption algorithm, known as Rivest-Shamir-Adleman or RSA is used to generate a Public key corresponding to the symmetric key and adds the key in the file’s data. Since Wanna Decryptor ransomware may use unique keys for set of files or for every file, discovering a decryption method by reverse engineering it can only be successful if there is a mistake while coding the encryption procedure, which is not likely.
For more information on how this encryption process works, please visit the following related article:
The files, targeted by Wanna Decryptor ransomware are documents, videos, pictures and other often used file types, for example, the following:
“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 CAD Files .DWG .DXF GIS Files .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 Encoded Files .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 Audio Files .AIF .IFF .M3U .M4A .MID .MP3 .MPA .WAV .WMA Video Files .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”Source:fileinfo.com
After the process of encryption is complete, the virus may correspond with the cyber-criminals to send the decryption keys to them, so that they can update their decryptor in the dropbox site. Another scenario is if they have a master decryption key embedded within the decryptor. Whatever the case may be with Wanna Decryptor, experts recommend to remove this virus instead of paying the ransom.
Remove Wanna Decryptor Ransomware and Restore Encrypted Files
For the removal of this virus, advices are to first back up the encrypted files and then follow the removal instructions below. They are specifically created to help delete the malicious files and objects created by this ransomware on your computer. In case manual removal is a challenge for you, recommendations are to focus on automatically removing everything related to Wanna Decryptor ransomware. Experts advise that the best way of doing the removal is by downloading an advanced anti-malware tool which will not only delete all files but will also protect your computer against future infections.
If you want to try and restore the files encrypted by Wanna Decryptor, we have suggested some methods in step “2. Restore files encrypted by Wanna Decryptor” below. They are not 100% guarantee you will get all the files back, but you may recover at least some of the data using these methods.
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.
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Step 1: Scan for Wanna Decryptor with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Wanna Decryptor.
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 Wanna Decryptor 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.
Wanna Decryptor-FAQ
What is Wanna Decryptor Ransomware?
Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor Infect?
Via several ways.Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 .Wanna Decryptor files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Wanna Decryptor 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 .Wanna Decryptor files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Wanna Decryptor" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Wanna Decryptor 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 Wanna Decryptor 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.
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