WantToCry Ransomware: Overview, Removal Guide, and Prevention Methods

WantToCry is a type of ransomware that has been wreaking havoc on computers by encrypting files and demanding a ransom payment for their alleged decryption. If you’ve been affected by this malware, the ransom note, along with the .want_to_cry extension appended to encrypted files, will serve as the first signs of the infection. Below, we explore the critical details of the WantToCry Ransomware, including a summary of its operations, the damage it causes, how it spreads, and a comprehensive guide for its removal and preventive measures.

WantToCry Ransomware Summary

Detail	Description
Threat Type	Ransomware, Cryptovirus
File Extension	.want_to_cry
Ransom Note File Name	!want_to_cry.txt
Associated Email	No specific email; contact is directed through qTOX profile
Detection Names	“WantToCry Ransomware”, “Cryptovirus”, “want_to_cry Virus”
Symptoms of Infection	Files encrypted with .want_to_cry extension, ransom note appears, system performance may degrade
Damage	Loss of access to files, potential data loss, decreased system performance, and financial extortion risks
Distribution Methods	Spam emails with malicious attachments, torrents, social media, and freeware containing malicious scripts
Danger Level	High – leads to file loss, extortion risk, and system persistence via Windows Registry manipulation

How Did I Get the WantToCry Ransomware?

WantToCry ransomware is typically distributed through multiple vectors, including malicious email attachments, fake software downloads, torrent websites, and social media platforms. One of the main distribution methods involves a payload dropper that triggers the ransomware when the infected file is executed.

Once executed, the ransomware encrypts a wide variety of file types, such as documents, videos, audio files, and even sensitive data like banking information. It uses a unique identifier appended to each encrypted file, with the .want_to_cry extension marking the compromise.

Ransom Note: What Does It Say?

Once files are encrypted, a ransom note named !want_to_cry.txt is created in the affected directories. Here’s a sample of what the ransom note looks like:

All your data has been encrypted by –WantToCry– r@n50mw@re.
You can buy decryption of all files for 300 USD.
For this:\n1. Visit hxxps://tox.chat/download.html\n2. Download and install qTOX on your PC.\n3. Open qTOX, click “New Profile,” and create your profile.\n4. Click “Add friends” and search for contact – [unique string].\n5. Send a message with the string.\n6. Send 3 test files (20-30 MB each).

We will provide payment instructions and decrypt your files after receiving payment.
Payment must be made via Bitcoin.

While it may seem tempting to pay the ransom to get your files back, experts strongly advise against it. Paying the ransom does not guarantee you will receive the decryption key, and it funds criminal activity.

How to Remove WantToCry Ransomware?

If you’ve encountered the WantToCry ransomware, the most effective way to remove it is to use a reliable anti-malware tool like SpyHunter. Below is a detailed guide on how to remove the WantToCry ransomware and restore your system.

Enter Safe Mode

Before initiating the removal process, boot your system in Safe Mode to prevent the ransomware from causing further damage or executing.

• Restart your PC.
• While booting up, press F8 (for Windows 7) or Shift + F8 (for Windows 8/10) to access the Advanced Boot Options.
• Select Safe Mode with Networking.

Use SpyHunter to Scan and Remove the Threat

SpyHunter is an advanced anti-malware tool designed to detect and eliminate ransomware infections like WantToCry.

• Download SpyHunter and install it on your device.
• Open SpyHunter and initiate a Full Scan of your system to detect the WantToCry ransomware.
• Once the scan is complete, review the results and click Fix to remove the detected ransomware and any other potential threats. SpyHunter is equipped with advanced features that can automatically repair registry changes and system files that may have been affected by the ransomware.

Check System for Residual Files

After SpyHunter finishes the scan, check your system’s directories to ensure that the ransom note file (!want_to_cry.txt) and any malicious files have been completely removed.

Restore Your Files

Unfortunately, decrypting files encrypted by WantToCry without the decryption key is not feasible. However, you may try restoring your files using the following methods:

• Restore from backups: If you regularly back up your files to external drives or cloud services, restore your files from the latest backup.
• Shadow Copies: If your system has Shadow Volume Copies enabled, you might be able to recover previous versions of your files. However, WantToCry may have used the vssadmin.exe command to delete these backups, making recovery more difficult.

Prevention: How to Avoid Future Infections

Prevention is key to avoiding future infections by ransomware like WantToCry. Follow these best practices:

1. Use Reliable Antivirus and Anti-Malware Software: Always have up-to-date antivirus and anti-malware tools running on your computer. Tools like SpyHunter can provide ongoing protection against ransomware and other malware threats.
2. Be Cautious with Email Attachments and Links: Avoid opening email attachments or clicking on links from unknown or suspicious sources. Ransomware is often distributed through spam emails, and these attachments are designed to install malware once opened.
3. Enable File Backups: Regularly back up your files to an external drive or a cloud storage service. Make sure that the backup is not connected to your primary computer system, as ransomware can also target connected backups.
4. Update Your Software and System: Keep your operating system and software up to date. Vulnerabilities in outdated software can be exploited by ransomware. Enable automatic updates wherever possible.
5. Disable Macros and Scripting in Documents: Many ransomware infections are spread via malicious Office documents that exploit macro functions. Disable macros and scripting unless absolutely necessary.
6. Use Strong Passwords and Multi-Factor Authentication: Secure your accounts with strong, unique passwords. Use multi-factor authentication whenever possible to prevent unauthorized access.

Conclusion

WantToCry Ransomware is a dangerous cryptovirus that can encrypt your files and demand a hefty ransom payment. While paying the ransom is not advised, following a structured removal process with SpyHunter and implementing preventive measures can help mitigate future risks. Always be cautious about the sources from which you download files and stay vigilant to protect your data from ransomware threats.