Ransomware Research

WannaDie Ransomware

WannaDie is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: WanaDie, WannaCry Imposter, Wanna_die_decrypt0r.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
WannaDie
First Seen
November 1, 2017
Known Aliases
WanaDieWannaCry ImposterWanna_die_decrypt0r

How WannaDie ransomware works

File encryption patterns

WannaDie modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

Extensions added after encryption
.wndie

Ransom note and payment demands

After encrypting files, WannaDie displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

message
notes/note.txt
Location: OnceOnCompletion
screenshot
notes/@WannaDecrypt0r.png
Location: Desktop

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with WannaDie ransomware:

About this analysis

This WannaDie ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like WannaDie.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects WannaDie inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify WannaDie across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.

See How the Hunt Engine WorksRequest a Demo

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