Sns ransomware is a newly identified strain belonging to the Makop/Phobos family of file-encrypting malware. Once active, it encrypts user files, appends the .sns extension along with a victim ID and attacker email, and drops a ransom note named +README-WARNING+.txt. Like other double-extortion threats, Sns not only locks access to data but also claims to have stolen sensitive information, threatening to leak it if victims fail to comply.
Upon execution, Sns begins encrypting files across local drives and network shares. Each file is renamed with a victim-specific ID, the attackers’ contact email, and the .sns extension. A typical example would be transforming photo.jpg into photo.jpg.[2AF20FA3].[stolenrans@hotmail.com].sns.
The ransomware then changes the desktop wallpaper and drops its ransom note, instructing victims to contact the attackers for file recovery and to prevent leaked data from appearing online.
If a system is infected with Sns, the following immediate steps are crucial:
Disconnect the infected device from networks and shared drives.
Do not delete encrypted files or the ransom note, as they may be required for recovery attempts.
Collect logs, file hashes, and network data for forensic analysis.
Avoid rebooting, as it may trigger further encryption or malware scripts.
Contact professional ransomware recovery experts for assistance.
Recovery Pathways
Free Methods
1. Backup Restoration The most reliable way to recover is restoring clean backups stored offline or in immutable cloud storage. Backups must be verified for integrity before use, as partial encryption or overlooked files can complicate recovery.
2. Free Decryptors (When Available) Occasionally, researchers publish decryptors for older or flawed variants, but none are available for this strain. Using tools on unsupported versions may corrupt data.
Paid and Professional Methods
1. Third-Party Negotiators Some organizations hire negotiators who communicate with attackers on the dark web. They may attempt to reduce ransom amounts or validate decryption keys with sample files. However, this approach is costly and still risky.
2. Direct Ransom Payment This remains an option, though highly discouraged. Even if payment is made, there is no guarantee the attackers will provide a functional decryptor. Payments also raise ethical and legal issues, as they support cybercriminal operations.
3. Our Specialized Recovery Service We offer a professional decryptor for enterprise victims of Sns ransomware. Our process includes variant analysis, secure cloud-based decryption, and sandboxed file restoration with integrity checks. While success cannot be guaranteed, this approach avoids fraudulent tools and provides a structured, transparent recovery method.
Sns Ransomware (.sns) — Recovery Guide and Decryptor Workflow
Our Sns Decryptor: Enterprise-Grade Recovery
Our team has reverse-engineered the Sns ransomware family and built a specialized decryptor tailored to Makop/Phobos-based encryption schemes. Designed for Windows environments, it offers reliability, integrity checks, and a controlled decryption workflow.
How It Works?
Victim ID Mapping: The decryptor uses the unique ID found in the +README-WARNING+.txt ransom note to match encrypted file batches.
Cloud Integrity Verification: All decrypted files undergo integrity validation with blockchain-backed logging to ensure no corruption.
Universal Key Option: For cases where the ransom note is missing, a premium version of our decryptor attempts recovery using heuristic mapping against the latest Sns variants.
Read-Only Pre-Scan: Before any decryption is attempted, the tool scans encrypted files to confirm viability and prevent accidental damage.
Step-by-Step Sns Recovery Guide with Sns Decryptor
Assess the Infection Identify encrypted file pattern: files ending with .sns and names appended with [VictimID].[stolenrans@hotmail.com]. Confirm presence of +README-WARNING+.txt.
Secure the Environment Disconnect affected machines from the network and isolate shares to prevent further encryption and exfiltration.
Engage Our Recovery Team Submit sample encrypted files and the ransom note for variant confirmation; the team will analyze and provide a recommended recovery path and timeline.
Run the Sns Decryptor Launch the decryptor as administrator on a prepared recovery host; an internet connection is required for cloud-assisted integrity checks unless using offline mode.
Enter Your Victim ID Copy the Victim ID from the ransom note and enter it when prompted to match your encryption batch.
Start the Decryptor Initiate the controlled decryption; direct output to a separate location and verify test files before mass restoration.
Several encrypted files (preferably small, non-critical ones for testing).
Internet access for cloud-assisted verification (unless using offline mode).
Administrative privileges on the recovery machine.
Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)
Several technical indicators can reveal an Sns ransomware infection:
Files encrypted with the .sns extension and victim ID/email appended.
Presence of the ransom note: +README-WARNING+.txt.
Altered desktop wallpaper with ransom instructions.
Suspicious new outbound network activity around the time of infection.
System logs showing file creation and modification spikes during the encryption window.
Tactics, Techniques, and Procedures (TTPs)
Sns shares its operational style with other Makop/Phobos variants, employing a familiar set of tactics:
Initial Access: Attackers rely on phishing emails, malicious attachments, trojanized downloads, and exposed RDP or VPN endpoints. In some cases, cracked software and fake updates are used to lure victims.
Credential Access & Lateral Movement: Tools like Mimikatz and LaZagne may be deployed to extract system credentials. Remote management software such as AnyDesk or TeamViewer is abused for persistence and lateral movement.
Data Exfiltration: Before encrypting files, attackers use utilities such as RClone, WinSCP, or Mega.nz clients to quietly transfer stolen data off the network.
Impact & Cleanup: The ransomware deletes Windows Volume Shadow Copies using commands like vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet. This prevents recovery from built-in backup features and forces victims into ransom negotiations.
Tools Used by Sns Operators
The operators behind Sns ransomware are known to rely on both custom malware and legitimate software tools:
Mimikatz for credential harvesting.
RClone, WinSCP, FileZilla, Mega clients for data exfiltration.
AnyDesk, TeamViewer for remote persistence.
vssadmin and wbadmin scripts for disabling recovery options.
PowerShell and batch scripts for automation and stealth operations.
Ransom Note Overview
Once the encryption process is complete, Sns ransomware drops a text file named +README-WARNING+.txt into affected directories and also changes the desktop wallpaper.
Attention
Files are Stolen and Encrypted ! You need to contact us to decrypt the data.
We guarantee security and anonymity. Decryption of all data and non-publication of your files on the Internet.
Recommendation
Trying to use other methods and people to decrypt files will result in damage to the files. Other methods cannot provide guarantees and they may deceive you.
Solution
Our email address: stolenrans@hotmail.com
Contact us now to decrypt your data quickly.
YOUR ID: –
Victim Impact
Geographical Distribution of Victims
Industries Affected
Infection Timeline
Conclusion
Sns ransomware, identified by the .sns extension, is a dangerous addition to the Makop/Phobos family. Its use of double extortion, reliable encryption algorithms, and targeted victim approach make recovery difficult without expert help. The safest route remains maintaining offline backups, securing remote access, and following incident response best practices. Paying the ransom is never a guaranteed solution and only perpetuates criminal activity. By acting quickly, preserving evidence, and involving professional recovery teams, victims can minimize losses and restore critical operations.
Frequently Asked Questions
At this time, no free decryptor exists. Only backups or professional decryption services may restore files.
Yes, the ransom note contains the victim ID, which is required for most professional decryption attempts.
Payment does not ensure data recovery. Some victims never receive a decryptor even after paying.
Both are at risk, but ransom demands are often higher for organizations.
Most infections are linked to phishing, cracked software, infected downloads, and exposed remote access points.
Yes, antivirus software can remove the ransomware, stopping further encryption. However, encrypted files will remain locked without backups or a decryptor.
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