WSAZ Virus (.WSAZ File) 🔐 Decrypt Lost Data & Removal Guide

The Wsaz virus, known as a ransomware infection, is part of the STOP family. This malware is notorious for malicious file ciphering. When the Wsaz virus gets into a computer, it targets various types of files, like videos, photos, documents, and more. It changes the file structure and appends the “.wsaz” extension to each file, making them inaccessible and unusable without the decryptor.

What Is Wsaz Virus?

Wsaz

🤔 Wsaz malware can be classified as ransomware that originates from the DJVU/STOP ransomware family. Its primary purpose is to encrypt your files. Then, the ransomware virus asks its victims to pay the ransom – ($490 – $980) in Bitcoin.

The malicious program known as the Wsaz virus encrypts your files and forces you to pay for their restoration. This malware ciphers different file types, making them identifiable by a distinct “.wsaz” extension, rendering the affected files impossible to access and use. The ransomware then demands payment in Bitcoin from the victims for file decryption, with amounts ranging from $490 to $980. The ransom text file is named “_readme.txt” in all cases.

Wsaz Ransomware uses Salsa20 encryption algorithms to scramble the contents of the targeted files. The strong ciphering method employed by the Wsaz virus makes it quite challenging, if not impossible, to find the decryption key without cooperating with the attackers.

After encrypting the files, the Wsaz virus displays a ransom note to the user, demanding a ransom payment for the decryption key. The ransom note provides instructions on how to make the payment and often includes threats of system wipeout or an increase in the ransom amount if the demands are not met within a specified timeframe.

I have compiled a comprehensive list of potential solutions, advice, and approaches to neutralize the Wsaz virus and recover access to your files. In some cases, it may be possible to restore your files, while sometimes, it may be impossible.

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📌 Important Note!

It is important to note that paying off the ransom does not guarantee the successful files recovery. The scoundrels behind the Wsaz virus are known for their untrustworthiness. There have been instances where people have paid the ransom, {only to be denied by the cybercriminals with the decryption key provision.

Wsaz employs a unique key for each victim, with one exception:

The Wsaz virus bears resemblance to other DJVU ransomware variants such as Wsuu, Kitu, Kizu, and Kiqu. This virus encrypts a wide range of common file types and appends its distinct “.wsaz” extension to all files. For instance, a file named “1.jpg” would be altered to “1.jpg.wsaz” and “2.png” to “2.png.wsaz“. Upon successful encryption, the virus creates a special text file named “_readme.txt” and places it in every folder containing the encrypted files.

The image below provides a visual representation of files with the “.wsaz” extension:

Encrypted Files by STOP/DJVU Ransomware

Name	Wsaz Virus
Ransomware family¹	DJVU/STOP² ransomware
Extension	.wsaz
Ransomware note	_readme.txt
Ransom	From $490 to $980 (in Bitcoins)
Contact	[email protected], [email protected]
Detection	MSIL/Kryptik.MJW, Trojan:Win32/VB.YE, Trojan:MSIL/AgentTesla.GFQ!MTB
Symptoms	Encrypted most of your files (photos, videos, documents) and adds a particular “.wsaz” extension; Can delete Volume Shadow copies to make victim’s attempts to restore data impossible; Adds a list of domains to HOSTS file to block access to certain security-related sites; Installs password-stealing Trojan on the system, like Vidar Stealer or RedLine Stealer; Manages to install a SmokeLoader backdoor;
Fix Tool	To remove possible malware infections, scan your PC: 6-day free trial available.

This message asking payment is for restore files via decryption key:

_readme.txt (STOP/DJVU Ransomware) – The frightening warning insisting users to pay off the ransom to unlock the encoded data contains these annoying admonitions.

Wsaz ransomware arrives as a set of tasks that are needed to perform certain tasks on a victim’s computer. One of the primary ones being launched is winupdate.exe, a deceptive process that displays a fraudulent Windows update notification during the attack. This is meant to convince the victim that a sudden system slowdown is caused by a Windows update. But simultaneously, the ransomware runs another process (usually named by four random characters) which commences scanning the system for target files and encrypting them. Then the ransomware deletes Volume Shadow Copies from the disk through the following CMD command:

vssadmin.exe Delete Shadows /All /Quiet

Once erased, it becomes nearly impossible to retrieve the previous computer state using System Restore Points. The problem is, ransomware operators are eliminating any built-in Windows techniques that could aid the victim to recover files for free. In addition, the crooks modify the Windows HOSTS file by appending a list of domains to it and directing them to the localhost IP. As a result, the victim will face a DNS_PROBE_FINISHED_NXDOMAIN error when accessing one of the blacklisted websites.

It has come to our attention that ransomware attempts to restrict websites that post various how-to guides for computer users. It is clear that by limiting specific domains, the malefactors are seeking to stop the victim from reaching relevant and helpful ransomware-attack-related information online. This malware also stores two text files on the victim’s computer that provide details related to the attack – the public key of this victim and personal ID. These two files are named bowsakkdestx.txt and PersonalID.txt.

After all these modifications, the malware doesn’t halt. Variants of STOP/DJVU are inclined to release Vidar password-stealing Trojan on compromised systems. This threat possesses an huge list of capabilities, including:

Stealing Steam, Telegram, Skype login / password;
Stealing cryptocurrency wallets;
Downloading other malware to the computer and running it;
Stealing browser cookies, saved passwords, browsing history, and more;
Viewing and manipulating files on victim’s computer;
Allowing the hackers to perform other tasks on the victim’s computer remotely.

The cryptography algorithm in STOP/Djvu ransomware is AES-256. So, if your data got encrypted with an online decryption key, the possibility to get your files back are quite low. Thing is, this key is unique for each victim, and brute forcing it will take exceptionally big amount of time.

Obtaining the online decryption key in any other way is also nearly impossible. It is stored on a server controlled by the hackers who promote the Wsaz infection. For receiving unlocking key the payment should be $980. To obtain the payment details, the victims should contact the hackers by email ([email protected]).

The message by the ransomware states the following information:

ATTENTION!

Don't worry, you can return all your files!

All your files like photos, databases, documents and other important are encrypted with strongest encryption and unique key.
The only method of recovering files is to purchase decrypt tool and unique key for you.
This software will decrypt all your encrypted files.

What guarantees you have?

You can send one of your encrypted file from your PC and we decrypt it for free.
But we can decrypt only 1 file for free. File must not contain valuable information.

You can get and look video overview decrypt tool:

https://we.tl/t-WJa63R98Ku

Price of private key and decrypt software is $980.
Discount 50% available if you contact us first 72 hours, that's price for you is $490.

Please note that you'll never restore your data without payment.

Check your e-mail "Spam" or "Junk" folder if you don't get answer more than 6 hours.

To get this software you need write on our e-mail:

[email protected]

Reserve e-mail address to contact us:

[email protected]

Your personal ID:
XXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXXX

Do not pay the ransom!

Please, try to use the available backups, or Decrypter tool

The _readme.txt document also demands that the computer owners should contact the hackers during 72 hours starting from the moment of files were encrypted. If user contacts hackers within 72 hours, hackers grant a 50% off. Thus the ransom amount will be minimized down to $490. Yet, stay away from paying off the ransom! I strongly recommend that you do not contact these scammers and do not pay. One of the most real working solution to recover the lost data is just using the available backups, or using Decrypter tool from Emsisoft.

The uniqueness of such viruses is the utilization a similar set of actions for generating the unique decryption key to recover the ciphered data. Thus, unless the ransomware is still in development or exhibits some hard-to-track encryption, manual data recovery is a thing you can’t perform. The sole remedy to prevent the data loss is to regularly make backups of your crucial files.

Note that even if you do create such backups regularly, they should be placed into a specific location without loitering, not being connected to your main workstation. For instance, the backup may be kept on the USB flash drive or some alternative external hard drive storage. Optionally, you may turn to the help of online (cloud) information storage.

Needless to say, when you maintain your backup data on your common device, it may be ciphered together with other data. For this reason, storing the backup on your computer’s disk is surely not a wise idea.

How I was infected?

Ransomware has a various methods to built into your system. But it doesn’t really matter what way had place in your case.

Ransomware attack following a successful phishing attempt.

However, the Wsaz virus can be injected into your PC through common leaks, including:

Concealing the virus within seemingly legitimate apps, especially utilities provided as freeware or shareware.
Spreading the virus through spam emails containing suspicious links that lead to the virus installer.
Exploiting online free hosting resources to host and distribute the virus files discreetly.
Obtaining pirated software from illegal peer-to-peer (P2P) resources, which may unknowingly contain malware.

There have been cases where the Wsaz virus masquerades as something legitimate, such as messages prompting you to install a browser update or a required codec for online media playback. Online scams often use this tactic to trick you into manually installing the ransomware, thereby involving you directly in the process.

These bogus update alerts won’t indicate that you are installing a threat; they will be disguised as urgent security updates or dubious programs to deceive you.

It’s important to note that using cracked apps and engaging in P2P activities are not only illegal but also expose your PC to serious malware, including the Wsaz ransomware.

To prevent the injection of ransomware like Wsaz into your PC, consider the following tips:

Remain vigilant while installing free software and carefully review all installation options.
Avoid opening suspicious email attachments and running files from unknown senders.
Always keep your anti-malware program up to date.

Keep in mind that malware doesn’t openly display itself; it hides as a malevolent process running in the background from the moment your computer boots up.

How To Remove Ransomware?

In addition to lock a victim’s files, the Djvu ransomware has also installed the Vidar Stealer on PC to take account credentials, crypto wallets, desktop files, and more.

How To Decrypt .wsaz Files?

How to restore big files?

Try removing .wsaz extension on a few big files and opening them. This malware has issues with large files encryption. Either the virus accessed and did not encrypt the file, or it bugged and did not add the filemarker. If your files are very large (2GB+), such a situation is highly probable. Please, text me in the comments whether this helped you or not.

The newest extensions released around the end of August 2019 after the criminals made changes. This includes Wsuu, Kitu, Kizu etc.

As a result of the changes made by the criminals, STOPDecrypter is no longer backed. It has been replaced with the Emsisoft Decryptor for STOP Djvu Ransomware developed by Emsisoft.

You can download free decryption tool here: Decryptor for STOP Djvu.

Select folders for decryption.

Based on the default configurations, the decryptor will automatically choose the available directories in order to unlock the currently available drives (the connected ones), including the network drives. Additional (optional) locations can be selected with the assistance of the “Add” button.

Decryptors usually offer several options depending on the specific malware family. The existing possible options are displayed in the Options tab and can be enabled or deactivated there. You may discover a comprehensive list of the currently active Options below.

Click on the “Decrypt” button.

As soon as you add all the desired locations for decryption into the list, click on the “Decrypt” button in order to initiate the decryption procedure.

Note that the main screen may turn you to a status view, letting you know of the active process and the decryption statistics of your data:

The decryptor will notify you as soon as the decryption procedure is completed. If you need the report for your personal papers, you can save it by choosing the “Save log” button. Note that it is also possible to copy it directly to your clipboard and to paste it into emails or messages here if you need to do so.

The Emsisoft Decryptor might display different messages after a failed attempt to restore your files:

✓ Error: Unable to decrypt file with ID: [your ID]

There is no corresponding decryption key in the Emsisoft decryptor’s database.

✓ No key for New Variant online ID: [your ID]

Notice: this ID appears to be an online ID, decryption is impossible

Your original files were encrypted with an online key. So no one else has the same encryption/decryption key pair. File recovery is only possible through paying the ransom. 🙁

✓ Result: No key for new variant offline ID: [example ID]

This ID appears be an offline ID. Decryption may be possible in the future.

Malware used an offline key, though the file recovery operation failed (the offline decryption key isn’t available yet). But, this message is a good news for you, because it might be possible to restore your files in the future. 🙂
It can take a few weeks or months until the decryption key gets found and uploaded to the decryptor. Please follow updates regarding the decryptable DJVU versions here.

✓ Remote name could not be resolved

This stands for a DNS issues. Try resetting your HOSTS file to default.

How to Restore .wsaz Files?

In some case ransomware is not doom for your files…

The Wsaz ransomware encryption mechanism algoritm is next: it encodes every file byte-by-byte, then saves a duplicate, deleting (not overriding!) the initial file. Thus, the information of the file placement on the physical disk is lost, but the original file is not erased from the drive. The cell, or the sector where this file was kept, can still hold this file, but it is absent in the file system and can be rewritten by data that has been loaded to this drive after the deletion. Hence, it is possible to retrieve your files using special software.

I recently had my pc infected by the this virus. It managed to bypass 2 Antivirus software and 2 malware fighters.

Anyway, after realizing it was an online algorithm, it is impossible to retrieve my encrypted files. I also had my backup drive plugged in at the time of the virus, and this was also infected, or so I thought. Every folder within my backup drive had been infected and was encrypted. However, despite losing some important files, I retrieved almost 80% of my 2TB storage.

When I started going through the folders, I noticed the readme.txt ransom note in every folder. I opened some of the folders and found that all files that were not in a subfolder within that folder had been encrypted. However, I found a flaw and glimmer of hope when I went into the subfolders in other folders and found that these files had not been encrypted. Every folder within my c and d drives, including subfolders, had been encrypted, but this was not the case with the backup drive. Having subfolders created within a folder has saved 80% of my data.

As I said, I believe this to be only a small loophole on a backup drive. I’ve since found a further 10 % of my data on another hard drive on a different pc. So my advice is if you use a backup drive, create subfolders. I was lucky, I guess. But I was also unlucky that the virus hit as I was transferring some files from my backup.

Hopefully, this can help some other people in my situation.

Jamie Newland

Some pointers for recovery repair of Wsaz files (true for all STOP/DJVU variants):

I have seen Stop/Djvu variants fail to encrypt deeper nested folders, so that you can check that. You may find those are not encrypted.

This ransomware saves encrypted data to a new file, deletes the original. So there’s a slight chance part of that deleted file can be recovered using file recovery software. It’s unlikely the folder structure can be restored, so a free tool like PhotoRec may be as good as any.

This ransomware only partially encrypts (about the first 150 KB), so depending on file size and type of data, the not encrypted part may be recoverable.

Joep

Recovering your files with PhotoRec

PhotoRec is an open-source program, which is originally created for data recovery from damaged disks, or for file retrieval in case if they are unintentionally deleted. However, with time flow, this program adopted the ability to retrieve the files of 400 different formats. Hence, it can be used for file recovery after the Wsaz attack.

First, you need to download this app. It is 100% free, but the developer notifies that there is no assurance that your files will be recovered. PhotoRec is spread together with another utility of the same developer – TestDisk. The program archive will have TestDisk name, but don’t worry. PhotoRec files are right inside.

To open PhotoRec, you need to find and open “qphotorec_win.exe” file. No installation process is needed – this program has all the files it need within the archive, hence, you can mount it on your USB drive, and try to help your friends/parents/anyone who has been attacked by Wsaz ransomware.

After the start, you will see the screen showing you the full list of your drives. However, this information is likely futile, because the required menu is placed a bit higher. Click this tab, then choose the disk which was attacked by ransomware.

After opting for the disk, you need to opt for the destination folder for the reclaimed files. This menu is located at the lower part of the PhotoRec window. The best choice is to export them on USB drive or any other type of removable disk.

Then, you need to designate the file formats. This option is located at the bottom, too. As it was mentioned, PhotoRec can regain the files of about 400 different formats.

Finally, you can begin files retrieval by pressing the “Search” button. You will see the screen where the outcomes of the scan and recovery are shown.

Recovery of Encrypted Files

Frequently Asked Questions

🤔 How can I open “.wsaz” files?

No way. These files are encrypted by ransomware. The contents of encrypted files are not available until they are decrypted.

🤔 Encrypted files contain important information. How can I decrypt them urgently?

If your data remained in the .wsaz files are very valuable, then most likely you made a backup copy. If not, then you can try to restore them through the system function – Restore Point. All other methods will require patience.

🤔 You have advised using GridinSoft Anti-Malware to remove Wsaz. Does this mean that the program will delete my encrypted files?

Of course not. Your encrypted files do not pose a threat to the computer. What happened has already happened.

🤔 This virus has blocked infected PC: I can’t get the activation code.

In this situation, you need to prepare the memory stick with a pre-installed

🤔 Decryptor did not decrypt all my files, or not all of them were decrypted. What should I do?

Have patience. You are infected with the new version of STOP/DJVU ransomware, and decryption keys have not yet been released. Follow the news on our website. We will keep you posted on when new keys or new decryption programs appear.

🤔 What can I do right now?

The Wsaz ransomware encrypts only the first 150KB of files. So MP3 files are rather large, some media players (Winamp for example) may be able to play the files, but – the first 3-5 seconds (the encrypted portion) will be missing. You can try to find a copy of an original file that was encrypted: Files you downloaded from the Internet that were encrypted and you can download again to get the original.