Wintz Ransomware

The Wintz Ransomware is a tool deployed by cybercriminals designed to lock users' data and extort money to restore the encrypted files potentially. As a type of ransomware, its primary goal is to cause maximum disruption by targeting a wide variety of file types.

Once the Wintz Ransomware infects a device, it immediately begins encrypting files, making them completely unusable. It renames the affected files by adding a unique extension consisting of four random characters. For instance, a file named '1.jpg' becomes '1.jpg.bnht,' and '2.pdf' is changed to '2.pdf.lfy3,' with all compromised files following this pattern. The ransomware also generates a ransom note with instructions for the victims, saved as a text file named 'read_it.txt.' This ransomware is based on the Chaos Ransomware family.

The Wintz Ransomware Extorts Its Victims for Money by Taking Their Data Hostage

The ransom note from the Wintz Ransomware informs victims that their computers and servers have been encrypted, and private data, such as files, internet cookies, and passwords, has been downloaded. The note threatens that if the victims fail to contact the attackers or pay the ransom, the encrypted files will remain inaccessible, and the stolen data will be sold on the Dark Net. The note also warns against attempting to modify or decrypt the files, as this could cause permanent damage.

In most cases of ransomware infections, decrypting the files without the attackers' assistance is impossible. However, even if victims pay the ransom, they often do not receive the supposed decryption tools. Therefore, cybersecurity experts strongly advise against complying with the criminals' demands, as data recovery is not guaranteed. Moreover, paying the ransom supports and encourages illegal activities.

Removing the Wintz Ransomware from the operating system will stop it from encrypting additional files. Unfortunately, this removal will not restore any files that have already been encrypted.

Do not Take Risks With the Safety of Your Devices and Data

To better protect devices and data from ransomware and malware threats, users can implement the following security measures:

• Regular Backups: Frequently back up important data to external hard drives or cloud storage. Ensure backups are disconnected from the main device to prevent malware from reaching them.
• Install Reliable Security Software: Use reputable anti-malware programs. Keep these programs up-to-date to detect and remove the latest threats.
• Enable Firewalls: Activate built-in firewalls on your operating system to block unauthorized access to the network and connected devices.
• Keep Software Updated: Regularly apply updates for the operating system, applications, and security software. Updates are used to deliver fixes for vulnerabilities that malware could exploit.
• Exercise Caution with Emails and Links: Avoid interacting with email attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Be wary of phishing emails, which often distribute malware.
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Create complex passwords for your accounts and devices. Using a password manager could help to store and manage passwords securely.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Use MFA wherever possible for an additional layer of security. MFA typically involves a secondary verification step, such as a code sent to your phone.
• Disable Macros and Scripts: Disable macros in Office documents and use browser extensions to block malicious scripts. Many ransomware attacks exploit macros and scripts.
• Educate Yourself and Others: Stay informed about developments with the latest cybersecurity threats and best security practices. Share the acquired knowledge with friends, family, and colleagues to help prevent these types of attacks.
• Limit Administrative Privileges: Use a standard user account for daily activities and only use an admin account when necessary. This limits the potential damage if malware infects your device.
• Employ Email Filtering: Use email filtering services to detect and block spam, phishing attempts, and emails with unsafe attachments.
• Implement Network Segmentation: Divide your network into segments to control the spread of ransomware if an infection occurs. This helps contain the damage to a smaller portion of your network.

By adopting these security measures, users can lessen the probability of being infected by ransomware and malware  significantly, safeguarding their devices and data from potential threats.

The ransom note dropped on devices infected by the Wintz Ransomware is:

'Wintz Ransomware Group & Partners | EST: 2016

>>> What happens?

Your computers and servers are encrypted, private data was downloaded.

We need only money, after payment we will give you a decryptor for the entire network and you will restore all the data.

>>> Data leak

First of all we have downloaded the entirety of your machine; quite litteraly everything.

Including cookies, passwords, all files & anything else of meaning.

If you fail to pay the desired ransomware within the time period provided your information

will be sold on the darknet.

The data is preloaded and will be published if you do not contact us.

>>> What guarantees?

We are not a politically motivated group and we do not need anything other than your money.

If you pay, we will provide you the programs for decryption and we will delete your data.

If we do not give you decrypters or we do not delete your data, no one will pay us in the future, this does not comply with our goals.

We always keep our promises.'