How to remove MarioLocker Ransomware and decrypt .wasted files

What is MarioLocker Ransomware

MarioLocker is a malicious software categorized as ransomware, a type of malware that encrypts victims’ files, rendering them inaccessible. The primary goal of ransomware attackers is to demand a ransom from the victims, typically in exchange for a decryption key necessary to unlock the encrypted files. MarioLocker Ransomware appends a unique extension to the encrypted files. It renames files by adding the .wasted extension followed by a sequential number, such as .wasted1, .wasted2, and so on. This renaming convention serves as a clear indicator of the ransomware’s presence on the system. The ransom note is a critical component of the ransomware’s strategy, providing victims with instructions on how to proceed. MarioLocker creates a text file named @Readme.txt, which contains a ransom message. This file is typically placed in the same directories as the encrypted files or in a prominent location such as the desktop. The note instructs victims to open a file named “WastedBitDecryptor” and follow the steps outlined within. Additionally, it directs victims to a file called YourFiles.txt located in the “C:\Windows\Temp” directory, which contains a list of encrypted files.

As of the knowledge cutoff date, there are no publicly available decryption tools guaranteed to decrypt files affected by MarioLocker Ransomware. This is primarily due to the strong encryption algorithms used, which can only be reversed with a decryption key held by the attackers. Victims are generally discouraged from paying the ransom, as there is no assurance that the attackers will provide the decryption key upon payment. Moreover, funding these attackers only perpetuates the ransomware cycle. Without a decryption tool, the options for recovering “.wasted” files are limited. Victims can attempt to restore their files from backups if they have been regularly backing up their data to separate devices or cloud storage. It is crucial to ensure that the ransomware is fully removed from the system before restoring files to prevent re-encryption.

In some cases, file recovery software may be able to recover some data, but this is not a reliable method for reversing the encryption caused by ransomware. Professional data recovery services may offer assistance, but they cannot guarantee success and can be costly. This article delves into the specifics of MarioLocker Ransomware, its infection methods, file extensions, encryption mechanisms, ransom notes, availability of decryption tools, and potential decryption methods for affected files. Upon successful infection, MarioLocker scans the victim’s computer to locate files for encryption. It targets a wide array of file types, including documents, images, videos, and databases. The ransomware employs robust encryption algorithms to lock these files, making them inaccessible without the corresponding decryption key.

How MarioLocker Ransomware infects computers

MarioLocker Ransomware, like many other ransomware variants, can infiltrate computers through various vectors. Common infection methods include:

Phishing Emails: Attackers send emails with malicious attachments or links that, when opened, execute the ransomware on the victim’s system.
Exploit Kits: These are tools that attackers use to exploit vulnerabilities in software or operating systems to deliver the ransomware payload.
Malvertising: Malicious advertisements on websites can redirect users to ransomware-laden pages.
Pirated Software: Illegitimate software downloads or updates can serve as a conduit for ransomware.
Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP): Unsecured RDP connections are a frequent target for ransomware attacks.

1. Download MarioLocker Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .wasted files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like MarioLocker Ransomware

MarioLocker Ransomware files:


@Readme.txt
YourFiles.txt
WastedBitDecryptor
{randomname}.exe


MarioLocker Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .wasted files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .wasted files. Download it here:

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .wasted files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with MarioLocker Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .wasted files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like MarioLocker Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Dashboard

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Alert

ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware Blocked

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. MarioLocker Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.