Ransomware Research
WowSmithAgain Ransomware
WowSmithAgain is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on February 1, 2022, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Petna Nextgen.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- WowSmithAgain
- First Seen
- February 1, 2022
- Known Aliases
- Petna Nextgen
How WowSmithAgain Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
encodes filenames with base64
File Encryption Patterns
WowSmithAgain modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..ramsome.encrypt(rsw).natRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, WowSmithAgain displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
readme-instructions.txtRansom message:
notes/readme-instructions.txt
/^README_[0-9]{7}\.txt$/Ransom message:
notes/README_0184997.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with WowSmithAgain ransomware:
xaqipaxowq.exefile.exe1.exe
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About This Analysis
This WowSmithAgain ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like WowSmithAgain.
Last updated: July 30, 2025