SAGE 2.2 Ransomware: An Overview, Removal Guide, and Preventive Methods

SAGE 2.2, an updated variant of the Sage ransomware, is a dangerous threat that locks files on infected computers and demands a ransom for their decryption. This type of malware is increasingly used by cybercriminals to extort money from victims. The infection process is straightforward, but the consequences can be devastating. In this article, we’ll delve into the details of the SAGE 2.2 ransomware, provide a step-by-step guide for its removal, and share preventive measures to help avoid future infections.

Understanding SAGE 2.2 Ransomware

SAGE 2.2 works by encrypting files on the victim’s computer, rendering them inaccessible. Once encrypted, the files are appended with the “.sage” extension. The ransomware also alters the desktop wallpaper to warn the victim about the infection, while a ransom note is created to instruct the user on how to recover their files.

Here’s a summary of the key details about SAGE 2.2:

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Ransomware, Crypto Virus, File Locker
Encrypted File Extension	.sage
Ransom Note Filename	!HELP_SOS.hta
Associated Email Addresses	None provided in the ransom note, only a website link for payment.
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:Evo-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Ransom.Shade.27), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Kryptik.FTVG), Kaspersky (Trojan-Ransom.Win32.SageCrypt.fqg), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.B!ml)
Symptoms of Infection	Files cannot be opened; file extensions change to .sage; ransom note is displayed on desktop.
Damage	All files are encrypted, making them inaccessible without a decryption key. Other malware may also be installed.
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments (e.g., macros), torrent websites, malicious ads.
Danger Level	High – Files are locked, and cybercriminals demand a ransom. Additional malware may be installed.

How Does SAGE 2.2 Infect Your Computer?

The SAGE 2.2 ransomware is typically distributed through phishing emails containing malicious attachments, usually in the form of documents with macros. When the user opens the attachment, the malware is downloaded and executed. Other common distribution methods include:

• Torrent websites: Downloading pirated software from untrustworthy sources can introduce ransomware.
• Malicious ads: Clicking on compromised ads can redirect you to harmful websites that infect your system.
• Software vulnerabilities: Cybercriminals exploit weaknesses in outdated software to deliver malware.

Once the ransomware successfully installs, it begins encrypting files on the infected machine, appending the ".sage" extension to all files.

The Ransom Note: What Does It Say?

Upon successful encryption, SAGE 2.2 creates a ransom note named "!HELP_SOS.hta" and alters the victim's desktop wallpaper. The note informs the victim that their files are encrypted and provides instructions on how to recover them. Key points in the ransom note include:

• Ransom payment: The victim is instructed to visit specific websites to obtain a decryption tool and key. Cybercriminals demand payment in cryptocurrencies, usually Bitcoin.
• Warning: The note warns that using any decryption tools other than the official "SAGE Decrypter" will result in damaged or destroyed files.
• Tor Browser usage: Victims are urged to use the Tor Browser to access the payment website if the provided links do not work.

The ransom note is available in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, German, French, and Chinese, making it accessible to a wide range of victims.

Steps to Remove SAGE 2.2 Ransomware

SpyHunter is a powerful anti-malware tool that can help detect and remove SAGE 2.2 ransomware from infected systems. Here's how to use SpyHunter to eliminate the threat:

1. Download and Install SpyHunter:
   • Download the installer.
   • Install the program by following the on-screen instructions.
2. Run a Full System Scan:
   • Launch SpyHunter and initiate a full system scan. This process may take some time depending on the number of files on your computer.
   • SpyHunter will scan for SAGE 2.2 ransomware and other associated threats.
3. Quarantine or Remove Detected Threats:
   • Once the scan is complete, SpyHunter will display a list of threats, including SAGE 2.2.
   • Select the detected threats and click "Remove" to quarantine or delete the malware.
4. Reboot Your Computer: After the removal process is complete, restart your computer to finalize the cleanup.
5. Recover Encrypted Files: While SpyHunter can remove the ransomware, it cannot decrypt your files. If you have backups or access to a legitimate decryption tool, you can restore your files.

Preventive Methods to Avoid Future Infections

To reduce the likelihood of falling victim to ransomware like SAGE 2.2, consider implementing the following preventive measures:

1. Keep Software Up to Date: Ensure your operating system and applications are always up to date to patch any known security vulnerabilities.
2. Use Strong Security Software: Install and maintain a reputable antivirus program that offers real-time protection against malware.
3. Be Wary of Email Attachments: Avoid opening attachments from unknown or suspicious sources. Use email security tools that scan attachments for potential threats.
4. Backup Your Files Regularly: Create regular backups of important files, and store them offline or in a secure cloud service. This will help you recover files in case of a ransomware attack.
5. Enable File Extension Viewing: Configure your computer to show file extensions, as this can help you identify potentially malicious files that might appear legitimate at first glance.
6. Be Cautious with Torrent Websites: Avoid downloading files from untrustworthy sources like torrent websites. These sites often distribute pirated software, which can contain malware.
7. Use a Firewall: Enable and configure your firewall to prevent unauthorized access to your system.
8. Avoid Clicking on Malicious Ads: Refrain from clicking on ads or pop-ups, especially on unfamiliar websites. Use an ad blocker to minimize exposure to potentially harmful ads.

Conclusion

SAGE 2.2 ransomware is a highly destructive threat that encrypts your files and demands a ransom for their decryption. It can spread through email attachments, malicious ads, and torrent websites, causing significant damage to both personal and professional data. While the only way to decrypt files is through the cybercriminals’ decryption tool, removing the malware with SpyHunter is essential to stop further infection. Prevention is key, and by following the steps outlined in this article, you can reduce the risk of future ransomware attacks.

Text in the Ransom Note

File recovery instructions
You probably noticed that you can not open your files and that some software stopped working correctly.

This is expected. Your files content is still there, but it was encrypted by "SAGE 2.2 Ransomware".

Your files are not lost, it is possible to revert them back to normal state by decrypting.

The only way you can do that is by getting "SAGE Decrypter" software and your personal decryption key.

Using any other software which claims to be able to restore your files will result in files being damaged or destroyed.

You can purchase "SAGE Decrypter" software and your decryption key at your personal page you can access by following links:

If none of these links work for you, click here to update the list.

Updating links...

Something went wrong while updating links, please wait some time and try again or use "Tor Browser" method below.

Links updated, if new ones still don't work, please wait some time and try again or use "Tor Browser" method below.

If you are asked for your personal key, copy it to the form on the site. This is your personal key:

- 
You will also be able to decrypt one file for free to make sure "SAGE Decrypter" software is able to recover your files

If none of those links work for you for a prolonged period of time or you need your files recovered as fast as possible, you can also access your personal page using "Tor Browser".

In order to do that you need to:

open Internet Explorer or any other internet browser; 
copy the address hxxps://www.torproject.org/download/download-easy.html.en into address bar and press "Enter"; 
once the page opens, you will be offered to download Tor Browser, download it and run the installator, follow installation instructions; 
once installation is finished, open the newly installed Tor Browser and press the "Connect" button (button can be named differently if you installed non-English version); 
Tor Browser will establish connection and open a normal browser window; 
copy the address 
-
into this browser address bar and press "Enter"; 
your personal page should be opened now; if it didn't then wait for a bit and try again. 
If you can not perform this steps then check your internet connection and try again. If it still doesn't work, try asking some computer guy for help in performing this steps for you or look for some video guides on YouTube.

You can find a copy of this instruction in files named "!HELP_SOS" stored next to your encrypted files.