WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus: what it is and how to remove it
WannaScream ransomware is a cryptovirus that locks all non-system files on an infected victim's computer and tries to extort cryptocurrency as a ransom for a promised decryption toolkit. This virus encrypts all files with an army-based AES-256 coding algorithm.
Facts checked October 6, 2026. Removal steps tested on Windows 11 (26H2) and checked against Microsoft's and the browser makers' current documentation. Sections marked as our earlier report are the original text: they describe the threat as it was then and have not been reviewed since. The 2026 status, the removal steps and the questions are current.
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WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus: summary
| name | WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus |
|---|---|
| type | Malware, Ransomware |
| Other versions | H@RM@ NORD |
| Appointed file extension | A tricky extension is added to the original filenames in this sequence: original filename.[Filemgr@tutanota.com][appointed victim ID].WannaScream |
| Ransom note | A pop-up window, titled WannaScream.hta, and hundreds of text files, named README.txt |
| Criminal contact details | Filemgr@tutanota.com and Cryptor6@tutanota.com |
| Removal | Scan the PC with security software to find and remove the malware and anything installed with it. Fortect scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. Remove it nowTo use the full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Fortect. The scan is free. |
Show 15 more facts
| Ransomware Removal | All ransomware should be removed immediately with the help of professional anti-malware software |
|---|---|
| Detection names | No Microsoft detection name is known |
| Encrypted file extension | .wannascream |
| Decryptor | No free decryptor is known for this variant; check No More Ransom (nomoreransom.org) for updates |
| Distribution | Not recorded in the old report |
| Damage | Not recorded in the old report |
| Name | WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus |
| Type | File-encrypting ransomware |
| Symptoms | Files renamed with a new extension and a ransom note left in folders |
| Evidence | 4 write-ups by security sites; no sample analysed yet |
| Encrypted files | .wannascream |
| Attacker contacts | Filemgr@tutanota.com |
| Free decryptor | No free decryptor is known (checked 6 October 2026) |
| First seen | 3 December 2020 |
| Facts checked | 6 October 2026 |
- File extension:
.wannascream - Note file:
README.txt - Contact:
Filemgr@tutanota.com
From our report of Dec 2020 · not reviewed since
More from our earlier report on WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus
- Following a successful WannaScream ransomware removal, a system repair is a must.
The WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus ransom note
[+] All Your Files Have Been Encrypted [+]
[-] Do You Really Want To Restore Your Files?
[+] Write Us To The E-Mail : Filemgr@tutanota.com
[+] If you did not get any response until 24 hours later,Write to this E-Mail : Cryptor6@tutanota.com
[-] Write Your Unique-ID In The Title Of Your Message.
[+] Unique-ID : 1E857D00
[-] You Have To Pay For Decryption In Bitcoins.
[-] The Price Depends On How Fast You Write To Us.
[-] After Payment We Will Send You The Decryption Tool
That Will Decrypt All Your Files.
________
[+] Free Decryption As Guarantee [+]
[-] Before Paying You Can Send Us Up To 5 Files For
Free Decryption, The Total Size Of Files Must Bee Less
Than 10MB, (Non Archived) And Files Should Not Contain
Valuable Information (Databases, Backups, Large Excel
-Sheets, Etc).
________
[+] How To Obtain Bitcoins [+]
[-] The Easiest Way To Buy Bitcoins Is LocalBitcoins
Site : https://localbitcoins.com/buy_bitcoins
You Have To Register, Click 'Buy Bitcoins', And Select
The Seller By Payment Method And Price.
[-] Also You Can Find Other Places To Buy Bitcoins And
Beginners Guide Here:
http://coindesk.com/information/how-can-i-buy-bitcoins
________
[+] Attention! [+]
[-] Do Not Rename Encrypted Files.
[-] Do Not Try To Decrypt Your Data Using Third Party
-Software, It May Cause Permanent Data Loss.
[-] Decryption Of Your Files With The Help Of Third
Parties May Cause Increased Price (They Add Their Fee
To Our) Or You Can Become A Victim Of A Scam.
________DARKCRYPT_Ransomware________
How to remove WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus
Tools you'll need
All of these are free except where noted. Download them on a clean device if the infected PC is offline.
- A USB stick: to keep the ransom note, two or three encrypted files and screenshots off the infected PC.
- Microsoft Defender Offline: built into Windows 11 and Windows 10; scans before Windows starts, so running malware cannot hide.
- Microsoft Safety Scanner: a second, portable scanner with current signatures; each download works for 10 days.
- ID Ransomware: identifies the family from the note and one encrypted file and says whether a decryptor exists.
- No More Ransom: the free decryptors from police and security companies; check it again every few months.
- Fortect (optional): scans Windows for malware and repairs the system files and settings it damaged. The free scan is in the box above.
How to remove WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus and get your files back
Work in this order.
Disconnecting comes first, removal comes before any restore, and nothing here asks you to contact the attackers.
Step 1: Disconnect the PC and unplug backup drives
Unplug the network cable or turn off Wi-Fi, and disconnect USB drives, external disks and network shares, so WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus cannot reach more files. Pause OneDrive, Google Drive or Dropbox sync, because synced folders upload the encrypted copies over the good ones.
Leave the PC on but offline while you read the next steps, since a restart can let the ransomware run again. This applies to Windows 11 and Windows 10 alike.
Windows 11: turn off Wi-Fi to take the PC offline. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 2: Save the ransom note and confirm the family
Your files now end in
.wannascreamand the instructions are inREADME.txt. Save both to a USB stick, a copy of the note and two small encrypted files, before anything else.On another device, check them with ID Ransomware or Crypto Sheriff: the family name decides which decryptor, if any, can help. Keep the note's ID and contact line for your report.
Windows 11: the ransom note and encrypted files to copy for identification. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 3: Check for a free decryptor
Our last check found that for WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus, no free decryptor is known (checked 6 October 2026). Look again yourself in the No More Ransom list and the free decryptor pages of Emsisoft, Avast and Kaspersky, which add new families every year.
A decryptor needs the ransomware gone first, or it encrypts the files again. Keep at least one copy of the encrypted files on an external drive, even if no tool works yet.
Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 4: Remove the ransomware before you restore or decrypt
Removing WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus does not bring the files back, but it has to come first. Start with Defender's Full scan, then the offline scan from the same Scan options page, which checks the disk before Windows loads.
If the scan cannot start, use Safe Mode with Networking. Delete the ransom notes only after you have saved a copy, because removal tools sometimes leave them behind on Windows 11 and Windows 10.
Windows 11: Windows Security > Virus & threat protection > Scan options. Full procedure with screenshots: Run a Microsoft Defender Offline scan
Step 5: Look for shadow copies of the files
Windows keeps shadow copies for restore points and backups, and some ransomware fails to delete them.
vssadmin list shadowsin an administrator Command Prompt tells you at once whether any exist.If they do, right-click the folder that held your files, open Properties > Previous Versions, select a version from before the attack, and click Open to check it before you Restore or copy the files out. Windows 11 and Windows 10 both have the tab.
Windows 11: vssadmin list shadows shows whether shadow copies exist. Full procedure with screenshots: Ransomware: first steps, finding a decryptor and recovering files
Step 6: Restore the files from a backup or recover deleted originals
A backup made before the attack is the surest way back. Connect it only once the PC is clean, then restore from File History, Windows Backup, OneDrive's Restore your OneDrive or your own external copies.
Without a backup, try file recovery: the originals that WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus deleted may still be on the disk until something overwrites them. Install nothing new on the drive you want to recover from on the Windows 11 or Windows 10 PC.
Full procedure with screenshots: Recover deleted files (Recycle Bin, backups, OneDrive) On uGetFix
Instructions for each browser and system
The detailed steps for every browser and system this guide covers. Open the one you use.
Manual removal using Safe Mode
Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.
Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking
Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment.
Windows 7 / Vista / XP
- Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
- When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. - it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.
Windows 10 / Windows 8
- Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
- Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
- On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
- Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
- Click Restart now.
- Select Troubleshoot.
- Go to Advanced options.
- Select Startup Settings.
- Press Restart.
- Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking.
Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes
Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Click on More details.
- Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
- Right-click and select Open file location.
- Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
- Delete the contents of the malicious folder.
Step 3. Check program Startup
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
- Go to Startup tab.
- Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
Step 4. Delete virus files
Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:
- Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
- Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
- Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:
Temporary Internet Files
Downloads
Recycle Bin
Temporary files - Pick Clean up system files.
- You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):
%AppData%
%LocalAppData%
%ProgramData%
%WinDir%
After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.
From our report of Dec 2020 · not reviewed since
WannaScream ransomware - a computer virus that encrypts all victims' personal files and demands a ransom for a decryption tool
WannaScream ransomware is a cryptovirus that locks all non-system files on an infected victim's computer and tries to extort cryptocurrency as a ransom for a promised decryption toolkit.
This virus encrypts all files with an army-based AES-256 coding algorithm.
As soon as the virus gets access to a device, it starts its bidding. All files personal files like pictures, videos, documents, archives, backups, etc., are appended with the WannaScream extension, as well as other components - this renders files inaccessible. For example, a file "document.html" is turned into "document.html.[Filemgr@tutanota.com][1E857D00].WannaScream."
Just like other versions H@RM@ or NORD, following successful encryption, the WannaScream file virus creates two types of ransom notes - a pop-up window (WannaScream.hta) and many text documents (README.txt) in all folders with renamed personal victim files. Both messages in the ransom notes are identical and demand victims to pay ransom for a decryption too
In the first part of the ransom notes, creators of WannaScream ransomware explain to victims that all their data was locked, and if they want to get it back, they have to establish a contect via the two given emails - Filemgr@tutanota.com and Cryptor6@tutanota.com.
Also, an appointed, unique user ID is provided. The ransom amount isn't specified, but the hackers state that it depends on how quickly the victim contacts them. The preferred payment method is Bitcoins.
In the second part, WannaScream ransomware developers try to build a fake trust relationship by offering their victims a free decryption guarantee of any five files from the infected device. The files can't be archived and shouldn't exceed 10Mb. By doing this, the cybercriminals are trying to prove that they really possess the necessary decryption tool and will forward it to the victims after the payment is made.
The third part consists of detailed instructions on how to obtain the necessary cryptocurrency in question. The last part of the WannaScream virus note is composed of warnings. The perpetrators urge the victims not to rename the encrypted files and not try any third-party decryption tools, which might lead to permanent data loss.
All malware, no matter if it's pesky adware or perilous trojans, must be eliminated from all devices ASAP. Remove WannaScream ransomware automatically with the help of reliable anti-malware software.
Message from the makers of WannaScream ransomware to their victims in the README.txt files looks like this:
From our report of Dec 2020 · not reviewed since
Avoiding most common distribution techniques of ransomware
Numerous malware types are spread out through the internet and are lurking for unaware everyday computer users to click on them.
Some could be hidden in deceptive ads, others in freeware bundles. But the most common ways the ransomware is distributed is through file-sharing platforms and spam emails.
File-sharing platforms such as torrent sites like The Pirate Bay are rattled with all kinds of malware, including ransomware. Cybercriminals are trying to outsmart computer users by naming their creations as something that would lure them in.
For example, a new unlocked licensed software, or a crack for some latest game. When such disguised malware is downloaded, the infection of the device is started immediately. So refrain from using such platforms.
Spam email is another popular method used by the hacker to spread their "products". Although most email providers have spam folders, some of these emails are so intricate that they surpass the provider's security and end up in regular inboxes. These emails might look like valid letters from banks, shipping companies, medical institutions, etc. However, threats lie in wait within them.
These emails contain either hyperlinks to malicious sites, where a virus payload file is downloaded automatically after visiting them or infected attachments, that when opened or downloaded, initiate an infection process instantly. Please look through the message thoroughly. Maybe there are some grammatical mistakes or other spottable irregularities. Avoid opening any hyperlinks and always scan email attachments with anti-malware software before downloading them.
From our report of Dec 2020 · not reviewed since
Guidelines on how to remove WannaScream ransomware from encrypted devices
There are no guarantees that after paying the ransom, the decryption tool will be provided.
Instead of dealing with cybercriminals, victims should remove WannaScream virus immediately and search for other data recovery methods. Few possible data retrieval techniques (including a free decryption tool for the older version of the cryptovirus) are displayed at the bottom of this article.
Malware can be eliminated manually, but it isn't easy at all, so we suggest entrusting professional anti-malware software with WannaScream ransomware removal. To do it automatically, we suggest using any of these two time-tested apps - or .
When your device is virus-free, you're still not out of the woods. Ransomware usually alters various system settings such as registry to help it thrive within the infected machine. So experts recommend using a system tune-up tool like the to find and fix any system irregularities that might cause abnormal device behavior, such as severe lag, crashing, etc.
[GI=method-1]If WannaScream ransomware can't be removed in normal Windows mode, trying doing it in Safe Mode with Networking
[GI=method-2]System Restore is also a viable option that might delete ransomware
This third-party app might be able to help you with file retrieval.
Using Windows Previous Version feature to restore files
Windows OS feature Windows Previous Version might be able to recover files to their previous version by one at a time.
Employing Shadow Explorer for data recovery
If ransomware didn't delete Shadow Volume Copies, then this app might be able to restore old data.
Possible WannaScream ransomware decryption tools
A company called Emisoft is constantly working on the decryption tool for various ransomware families. If it doesn't check back with us later as we update our readers with all the latest news.
Report it and recover your files
Report it
Report the attack even if you do not expect the files back: insurers and banks ask for the report number, and police use the contacts in the note to link cases.
- United States
- FBI IC3 · FTC ReportFraud
- United Kingdom
- Report Fraud (formerly Action Fraud) · NCSC
- Australia
- ReportCyber (ASD)
- EU countries
- Europol: national reporting sites
Give the victim ID, the note and the date the files were encrypted. A business that holds personal data may also have to notify its data protection authority, in the EU within 72 hours.
Make the next attack harmless
WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus could only hurt the files that had no second copy, and the signs (files that end in .wannascream and no longer open) showed exactly which ones those were. The 3-2-1 rule fixes that:
- three copies
- two media
- one disconnected
A practical version for a home PC: OneDrive or another cloud backup with version history, plus an external disk that you plug in once a week for File History and then unplug. Test a restore now and then by opening a few files from the backup on another device.
Details, schedules and what not to back up are in our 3-2-1 backup guide for Windows.
Access your website securely from any location
When you work on the domain, site, blog, or different project that requires constant management, content creation, or coding, you may need to connect to the server and content management service more often. The best solution for creating a tighter network could be a dedicated/fixed IP address.
If you make your IP address static and set to your device, you can connect to the CMS from any location and do not create any additional issues for the server or network manager that needs to monitor connections and activities. VPN software providers like can help you with such settings and offer the option to control the online reputation and manage projects easily from any part of the world.
Recover files after data-affecting malware attacks
While much of the data can be accidentally deleted due to various reasons, malware is one of the main culprits that can cause loss of pictures, documents, videos, and other important files.
More serious malware infections lead to significant data loss when your documents, system files, and images get encrypted. In particular, ransomware is is a type of malware that focuses on such functions, so your files become useless without an ability to access them.
Even though there is little to no possibility to recover after file-locking threats, some applications have features for data recovery in the system. In some cases, can also help to recover at least some portion of your data after data-locking virus infection or general cyber infection.
Questions about WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus
How do I open .wannascream files?
You cannot open them by renaming or with another program, because the content of files ending in .wannascream has been encrypted. The only ways back are a working decryptor for the family, or clean copies from elsewhere:
- OneDrive versions
- File History
- an offline backup drive
- Previous Versions if the ransomware did not delete them
Identify the family first by uploading the ransom note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware or No More Ransom. Avoid websites and programs that promise to open any encrypted file; they do not work and some are scams.
Is there a free WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus decryptor?
We last checked on 6 October 2026, and for WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus no free decryptor is known. We check No More Ransom, which collects free tools from police and security companies, and the decryptor pages of the major antivirus vendors. A working decryptor exists only when the encryption has a flaw or the keys were leaked or seized.
Ignore sites and videos that offer a "WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus decryptor" for download or for a fee: these are usually scams or malware. Real decryptors are free and come from known security companies or law enforcement. Keep the encrypted files in case a tool appears later.
Are ransomware recovery services legitimate?
Some are, but read the offer carefully. Genuine data-recovery firms recover deleted originals from disks or rebuild damaged files, and they say so. Others promise to "decrypt any ransomware" for a fixed price, which is impossible without the key; they quietly pay the attackers and keep a margin, sometimes without telling the victim.
Be especially careful with services that contact you after you post about the attack online. Ask for references, a written method and a no-result-no-fee clause, and check the free tools on No More Ransom first.
Should I pay the ransom?
We advise against it, and so do the FBI, Europol and national cyber agencies. Payment does not guarantee a working tool: some attackers never reply, some tools damage files, and some variants have no decryptor at all. Paying also funds further attacks and can make you a target again.
Before considering payment, try every recovery option in this guide and report the attack. Companies must involve their legal adviser and insurer, because payments to sanctioned groups can be illegal. If files are truly irreplaceable, store the encrypted copies and wait; decryptors sometimes appear later.
How did WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus get on my computer?
The way WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus spreads has not been documented yet, so look at your own recent activity. On home PCs, ransomware most often comes with cracked programs, game cheats, key generators and fake updates, or with an e-mail attachment that was opened.
On business networks, attackers usually log in through Remote Desktop with a stolen or guessed password. Think back to what was downloaded or installed in the days before files that end in .wannascream and no longer open, and check the Downloads folder and Installed apps sorted by date. Keep anything suspicious for your report, but do not run it again.
Did WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus steal my files or passwords?
We do not know yet. Nothing published so far shows data theft by WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus, but the only confirmed sign is files that end in .wannascream and no longer open, which says nothing about what happened before.
Many current ransomware attacks copy files or run a password stealer first, so it is wise to act as if they did.
From a clean device, change the passwords that were saved in the browsers on this PC, starting with e-mail and banking, sign out of all sessions and turn on two-step verification. Watch bank statements and account activity for the next few weeks.
Is WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus the same as other ransomware with a similar name?
Not necessarily. Ransomware names come from the file extension, the note or a word in the code, so unrelated families often end up with similar names, and one family can appear under several names. The difference matters: a decryptor or advice for one family does not fit another and can damage files.
Compare the ending added to your files and the exact name of the note with the summary table at the top of this guide, then upload the note and one encrypted file to ID Ransomware from a clean device. If the result names another family, follow the guide for that family instead.
What does README.txt tell me about the ransomware?
Quite a lot. The file name README.txt, the wording, the contact addresses and the format of the personal ID are typical for each family. Uploading the note together with one encrypted file to ID Ransomware or No More Ransom's Crypto Sheriff usually names the family within seconds.
That name decides your options: some families have free decryptors, some can be partially recovered, and some cannot be decrypted at all. The note's claims about stolen data should be taken seriously but not at face value.
Will .wannascream spread to my other drives?
It can. Ransomware encrypts every drive and network share it can reach while it runs, so external disks, USB sticks and shared folders connected during the attack may also have files ending in .wannascream. Disconnect everything now, then check each device from a clean computer.
Do not plug a backup drive into the infected PC until the ransomware has been removed with an offline scan. Cloud folders such as OneDrive sync the encrypted versions, but they keep earlier versions you can usually restore.
Will Fortect remove WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus?
Fortect scans Windows for malware and unwanted programs and repairs the system files and settings they change, and its free scan shows what it finds on your PC before you decide anything.
For WannaScream ransomware, WannaScream file virus, follow the plan above as well: the browser steps take back permissions and settings that no scanner treats as a threat, and uninstalling the program that brought it removes the source.
Run Microsoft Defender's full scan and, if anything was found, its offline scan as a second opinion. If the symptoms are gone after the plan and both scans are clean, there is nothing more to do.
Sources
- Atpinc: Secure your data with AES-256 encryption (read October 6, 2026)
- Csoonline: 9 types of malware and how to recognize them (read October 6, 2026)
- Virusai: Virusai (read October 6, 2026)
- CISA: StopRansomware (read October 6, 2026)
- No More Ransom (read October 6, 2026)