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
How WowSmithAgain ransomware works
File encryption patterns
WowSmithAgain modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, WowSmithAgain displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/readme-instructions.txt
notes/README_0184997.txt
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with WowSmithAgain ransomware:
- xaqipaxowq.exe
- file.exe
- 1.exe
About this analysis
This WowSmithAgain 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 WowSmithAgain.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects WowSmithAgain inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify WowSmithAgain 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.
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