WannaOof Ransomware

You can identify the malicious WannaOof Ransomware by the “.oof” extension attached to your personal files. If this extension is attached, the files cannot be opened because they are encrypted. The extension itself does not have an important role, and it is created only to mark the affected files. The real problem lies within the data of the files because it is changed in a way so that it could be read only using a special decryptor. This technology was created to help people protect their files against intruders, but, unfortunately, cyber attackers found a way to exploit it for their own gain. Whether we are talking about Alexbanan@tuta.io Ransomware, .crypted034 Ransomware, Cheetah Ransomware, Scarab-Apple Ransomware, or any other file-encrypting threat, the attackers behind this malware want something. In some cases, such threats are dysfunctional or are created only to mess with people, but, for the most part, they are unleashed to make money. Do not give the attackers what they want and, instead, remove WannaOof Ransomware.

Just like most other infections of this kind, WannaOof Ransomware is likely to use misleading spam emails and RPD (remote desktop protocol) vulnerabilities to enter weak operating systems. Once in, this malware starts encrypting files immediately. After the files are corrupted and the unique extension is appended to their names, WannaOof Ransomware reveals itself. It does that using an image set as the Desktop wallpaper and a window entitled “WannaOof.” The wallpaper displays an evil-looking smiling-crying emoji with a message that instructs to follow “instructions shown in the popup.” It is claimed that if these instructions were not followed, the files would be lost. According to the message represented via the infection’s window, a ransom of 0.02 Bitcoin must be paid to a specific Bitcoin Wallet within 24 hours in return for a “decryption key.” The message also claims that attempts to “modify, decrypt your files, or remove this program” would also result in loss of files. The truth is that your files are lost already. Yes, a decryptor should exist, in theory, but you are unlikely to obtain it by paying the ransom, and no other solution is available at this point.

The ransom of 0.02 Bitcoin is not incredibly intimidating. At the time of research, this sum translated to around 150 US Dollars or 130 Euro. That is not too much, and so some users might be willing to take the risk, even though we do not recommend it at all. Hopefully, you do not need to wonder whether or not you should pay the ransom because your personal files are backed up. A backup is a copy of a file that is stored away from the original file. Ideally, backups exist in the virtual realm (cloud storage) or on external drives in a physical form. If you own backups, you cannot be hit by WannaOof Ransomware, other file-encryptors, or different kind of malware that might target your personal files. If you have backups, do not try to access them just yet. First, you need to delete WannaOof Ransomware. Afterward, if you need your personal files on your computer, transfer them, and do not forget to backup new files.

In most cases, we can provide victims of malware with pretty informative removal guides. In this case, however, we cannot guarantee that the victims of WannaOof Ransomware will be able to remove this malware manually because the location and name of the main .exe file is unknown. Besides the launcher, there is only one other file that must be deleted, and that is the image file set as the Desktop wallpaper. If you cannot delete WannaOof Ransomware manually because you are not able to find the launcher, it might be high time to install anti-malware software capable of identifying and eliminating malicious threats automatically. In fact, you are overdue on installing this software because your operating system clearly lacks reliable protection. If it were protected, the malicious file-encryptor would not have invaded the system and encrypted your files! Besides securing your system, you must not forget about securing your files too, which we recommend doing by creating backups.

WannaOof Ransomware Removal

1. Tap Ctrl+Alt+Delete and choose Task Manager.
2. Go to the Details/Processes menu.
3. Right-click the [random] process run by ransomware and choose Open file location.
4. Select the malicious process and click End task.
5. Right-click the malicious [random].exe file and choose Delete.
6. Tap Win+E to launch Windows Explorer.
7. Enter %TEMP% into the quick access field at the top.
8. Right-click the file named wallpaper.bmp and click Delete.
9. Empty Recycle Bin and then quickly examine your system using a legitimate malware scanner.