SAGE 2.2 Ransomware – How to Remove It and Get Encrypted Files Back

SAGE 2.2 is a ransomware virus that has been actively infecting victims globally. SAGE 2.2 uses strong encryption to lock files on compromised systems and demands ransom payments for decryption keys.

This article provides an in-depth look at the SAGE 2.2 ransomware – how it works, its unique characteristics, the damage it can cause, and most importantly, what you need to know to protect yourself or recover if infected. Read on to learn everything about this malicious threat.

Overview of the SAGE 2.2 Ransomware

SAGE 2.2 is a ransomware virus that encrypts files on infected systems and demands ransom payments in bitcoin to decrypt them. SAGE 2.2 utilizes strong encryption algorithms to lock documents, photos, databases, backups, and other critical files.

This ransomware appends the .sage extension to encrypted files along with a unique victim ID and the attacker’s email address. It leaves ransom notes in every directory naming the email addresses to contact for payment.

SAGE 2.2 disables antivirus tools and deletes Volume Shadow Copies to block recovery options. Infection often occurs through phishing emails, compromised RDP access, drive-by downloads, and unpatched software exploits.

Some key features of the SAGE 2.2 ransomware include:

Encrypts a Broad Range of File Types

One of the hallmarks of SAGE 2.2 is its broad targeting of files for encryption across both local drives and connected network shares. Personal user files like documents, spreadsheets, photos, music and video files are encrypted. But SAGE 2.2 doesn’t stop there. It will also encrypt critical system files, databases, backups, and more.

For example, database files from programs like MySQL and MongoDB have been locked, as well as backup files created by software such as Veeam and Commvault. Entire network shares of data can be encrypted. This indiscriminate approach leads to maximum damage.

Appends ID, Email and Extension to Files

A common tactic used by SAGE 2.2 is appending the original filename with a unique victim identification string, the attacker’s email address, and the .sage extension.

For example, a file named “familyphoto.jpg” would become “familyphoto.jpg.sage”. This renaming takes place before the encryption process begins.

Leaves Ransom Notes in Text Files

After encrypting files in a given directory, SAGE 2.2 leaves behind a ransom note in the same folder. This text file contains brief instructions to contact the attackers via email to supposedly obtain decryption.

The language used in the note encourages urgency and implies that paying the ransom is the only way to get files back.

For example, a SAGE 2.2 ransom note may contain:

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 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 2.2 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 2.2 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 2.2 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.

*** ATTENTION! ALL YOUR FILES WERE ENCRYPTED! ***
*** PLEASE READ THIS MESSAGE CAREFULLY ***

All your important and critical files, databases, images and videos were encrypted by “SAGE 2.2 Ransomware”!
“SAGE 2.2 Ransomware” uses military grade elliptic curve cryptography, so you have no chances restoring your files without our help!
But if you follow our instructions we guarantee that you can restore all your files quickly and safely!

We created files with instructions named !HELP_SOS in every folder with encrypted files.

*** Please be sure to copy instruction text and links to your notepad to avoid losing it ***

—————–

In case you can’t find instructions, try opening any of these links:

=====  Your personal key =====
–
======

If can’t open any of those, you can use “TOR Browser”

TOR Browser is available on the official website: hxxps://www.torproject.org/
Just open this site, click on the \”Download Tor\” button and follow the installation instructions
Once “TOR Browser” in installed, use it to access –

By leaving these notes across an infected system, the attackers hope to pressure and panic victims into paying.

May Attempt Deleting Volume Shadow Copies

Some variants of the SAGE 2.2 ransomware attempt to escalate privileges and delete Volume Shadow Copy backups and system restore points from the infected Windows system.

For example, the command “vssadmin delete shadows /all /quiet” might be executed to wipe volume shadow copies. This prevents victims from utilizing these automated system backups to recover encrypted files.

However, the ransomware does not always succeed in gaining admin privileges necessary to carry out this deletion. When possible, SAGE 2.2 will attempt to block this recovery option.

Avoids Wasting Effort on Poor Regions

An interesting aspect of SAGE 2.2 is its use of geo-IP location tracking to identify the physical region an infected system is operating from.

Using this data, the ransomware is programmed to avoid encrypting files and demanding payment if the victim is located in a poorer region where ransoms are less likely to be paid.

For example, if a system in the developing world is infected, SAGE 2.2 may exit without encrypting to avoid wasting effort. Geo-targeting allows the attackers to maximize profits.

Disables Windows Defender and Firewall

To enable persistence, SAGE 2.2 also leverages various techniques like adding a run registry key to ensure the ransomware re-executes after a system reboot.

But it goes further – SAGE 2.2 attempts to disable the native Windows Defender antivirus or firewall to prevent these protections from detecting the ransomware activity or preventing the malicious processes from communicating with command and control servers.

With an overview of how SAGE 2.2 operates, signatures to watch for, and its technical capabilities, defenders gain an advantage in catching these ransomware attacks before they can inflict major harm. Understanding your enemy is the first step toward defeating them.

SAGE 2.2 Ransomware Threat Summary

Threat Details	Description
Name	SAGE 2.2 Ransomware
Type	Ransomware
File Extension	.sage
Ransom Note	pop-up window and text Files
Decryptor available	No
Detection Names	Trojan.Ransom.Crysis.E, Trojan-Ransom.Win32.Crusis.to, Ransom-Dharma!187085F60A15, Win32:RansomX-gen [Ransom], TR/Dropper.Gen, A Variant Of Win32/Filecoder.Crysis.P, Ransom:Win32/Wadhrama!pz, Win32.Trojan-Ransom.VirusEncoder.A
Symptoms	Encrypted Files, Changed Extensions, Ransom Demands
Distribution	Email Spam, Malvertising, Compromised Sites
Damage	Full Encryption of Files, Lost Access

The SAGE 2.2 ransomware encrypts files on infected systems and appends the .sage extension along with a unique victim ID. A ransom note is displayed demanding payment in Bitcoin to receive decryption keys. SAGE 2.2 spreads through tactics like phishing emails, drive-by downloads, and exploiting unpatched software vulnerabilities. Infection can result in total data loss without recovery options, underscoring the importance of prevention, detection, and backup.

How the SAGE 2.2 Ransomware Infects Systems

Now that we’ve covered a high-level overview, let’s look at how the SAGE 2.2 ransomware typically manages to get onto systems in the first place.

The most common SAGE 2.2 attack vectors include:

Phishing Emails

Fake emails containing infected attachments or links to malicious sites are a prime vector. The emails pretend to be invoices, deliveries, or important notifications to tempt victims.

Compromised Remote Desktop Access

Unsecured RDP ports allow attackers to remotely connect and manually deliver the payload. Brute force attacks on weak RDP passwords are common.

Software Vulnerabilities

Unpatched apps/OS with critical remote code execution flaws can be exploited to download and install SAGE 2.2 without any action by the victim.

Malicious Downloads

Fake installers, cracks/keygens, or pirated software often bundle SAGE 2.2 ransomware code without the user’s knowledge.

Malvertising and Scam Sites

Malicious ads or pop-ups that redirect to SAGE 2.2 download pages can infect those who click without realizing the risks.

As we can see, SAGE 2.2 employs a variety of social engineering, configuration oversight, unpatched software, and user security awareness gaps to ultimately compromise targets.

Now let’s look at the specific steps SAGE 2.2 takes once on a system to encrypt files and extort victims.

How the SAGE 2.2 Ransomware Encryption Process Works

When executed on a system, SAGE 2.2 ransomware follows a precise process to encrypt data. Understanding how this plays out step-by-step is critical to detecting and interrupting an attack:

1. Kill Processes Holding Files Open

SAGE 2.2 terminates any processes with open file handles, like database servers or document editing programs. This ensures these files aren’t locked when encryption starts.

2. Enumerate Drives and Shares

The ransomware scans across local hard drives and mapped network shares to build a list of targets for encryption. Home directories and shared storage are not off limits.

3. Check for Existing Encryption

SAGE 2.2 checks each file against an included list of file extensions already encrypted by other ransomware strains. Any matches are excluded from encryption to avoid wasting time.

4. Append File Names with ID and Extension

Before encrypting a file, SAGE 2.2 appends the unique victim ID, attacker email, and “.sage” extension to the filename. This renaming takes place in preparation of encryption.

5. Encrypt Files with Strong Algorithm

Next, SAGE 2.2 encrypts files using a robust algorithm like AES-256 or RSA-2048. A securely generated key is used to encrypt each file, which is different per victim.

6. Delete Volume Shadow Copies

If possible, SAGE 2.2 seeks out and deletes Volume Shadow Copy backups on the system to block recovery options.

7. Drop Ransom Note in All Directories

SAGE 2.2 drops a ransom note named “read.txt” in every folder where files were encrypted. This contains payment instructions.

8. Change Wallpaper to Ransom Note

Finally, SAGE 2.2 sets the desktop wallpaper to an image bearing a ransom payment note for visibility.

This sequence highlights the methodical and comprehensive steps SAGE 2.2 takes to encrypt files and pressure victims. But understanding this pattern is also incredibly useful for detecting SAGE 2.2 mid-attack.

Detecting an Ongoing SAGE 2.2 Ransomware Attack

Detecting a SAGE 2.2 ransomware attack as quickly as possible, before significant encryption takes place, can make recovery much easier.

Here are key signals that may indicate SAGE 2.2 is encrypting files:

• Running processes like “dharma.exe”, “accepteula.exe” or similar
• High disk I/O activity as files are encrypted
• Changed file extensions appending ID, email, and “.sage”
• Deletion of volume shadow copies and restore points
• Presence of “read.txt” ransom notes in folders
• Changed desktop background to ransom note image

Aggressively monitoring endpoints for these indicators can help uncover a SAGE 2.2 attack in the early stages when less damage has occurred. But prevention is always preferable to detection.

Preventing SAGE 2.2 Ransomware Infections

The most effective way to deal with SAGE 2.2 is to prevent it from ever compromising systems in the first place. Here are proactive measures to protect against infection:

• Patch software vulnerabilities – Unpatched apps and operating systems are often targeted as an initial infection vector. Prompt patching prevents exploitation.
• Block malicious email attachments/links – Advanced email security tools can analyze attachments and links in real-time to catch phishing attempts.
• Secure RDP access – Brute force attacks leverage weak RDP passwords. Require strong credentials and limit source IPs for remote access.
• Install robust endpoint protection – Anti-malware tools with behavioral analysis capabilities can block processes associated with ransomware activity.
• Backup critical data – Maintain recent backups offline and immutable to allow recovery of encrypted files without paying the ransom.
• Restrict execution permissions – Limiting normal user execution permissions makes it harder for malware payloads to execute.
• User security training – Educate staff to identify social engineering techniques, safely handle emails/downloads, and report anomalies.

Combining layers of technical defenses with user education offers the best protection against rapidly evolving malware like SAGE 2.2.

What to Do If You Become Infected with SAGE 2.2 Ransomware

Even with proactive measures, ransomware attacks can still slip past defenses. So what should you do if you discover SAGE 2.2 has encrypted your files?

1. Isolate the Infected System

First, disconnect the compromised device from any networks or shared storage to prevent SAGE 2.2 from spreading. This limits the potential impact.

2. Determine the Scope of Encryption

Conduct triage to assess the amount of encryption that has taken place across endpoints and file shares. This helps understand the severity and prioritize recovery of critical assets first.

3. Check for a Decryptor

Research whether any free decryption tools have been released that can unlock files encrypted by the specific SAGE 2.2 variant you are dealing with. These occasionally become available through security researchers.

4. Restore Files from Backup

If viable backups exist and were not compromised by SAGE 2.2, restore encrypted files from unencrypted versions in backup storage. Ensure backups are intact first.

5. Consult Incident Response Experts

For extensive infections, leverage professional incident response teams to provide technical analysis and strategize the recovery process. They may have additional options.

6. Report the Incident

File a report with the FBI’s Internet Crime Complaint Center (IC3) and your local authorities. Provide event details, ransom note, bitcoin wallet, etc. This supports law enforcement tracking ransomware attackers.

7. Don’t Pay the Ransom

Unless absolutely necessary, avoid paying the ransom. There is no guarantee you’ll get decryption keys, and it encourages more attacks. Focus on restoration from backups instead.

With the proper response plan, the damage and disruption caused by threats like SAGE 2.2 ransomware can be minimized.

Remove the SAGE 2.2 ransomware and recover the files

• STEP 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking
• STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove SAGE 2.2 ransomware
• STEP 3: Use HitmanPro to scan for Trojans and other malware
• STEP 4: Double-check for malware infections with ESET Online Scanner
• STEP 5: Restore the files encrypted by the SAGE 2.2 ransomware

STEP 1: Start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking

In this first step, we will start your computer in Safe Mode with Networking to prevent SAGE 2.2 malicious drivers and services from loading at Windows start-up. We’re using Safe mode because it starts Windows in a basic state, using a limited set of files and drivers.

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STEP 2: Use Malwarebytes to remove SAGE 2.2 ransomware

While the computer is in Safe Mode with Networking, we will download, install and run a system scan with Malwarebytes.

Malwarebytes stands out as one of the leading and widely-used anti-malware solutions for Windows, and for good reason. It effectively eradicates various types of malware that other programs often overlook, all at no cost to you. When it comes to disinfecting an infected device, Malwarebytes has consistently been a free and indispensable tool in the battle against malware. We highly recommend it for maintaining a clean and secure system.

1. Download Malwarebytes for Windows

   You can download Malwarebytes by clicking the link below.

   

   MALWAREBYTES FOR WINDOWS DOWNLOAD LINK
   (The above link will open a new page from where you can download Malwarebytes)
2.  

   Install Malwarebytes

   After the download is complete, locate the MBSetup file, typically found in your Downloads folder. Double-click on the MBSetup file to begin the installation of Malwarebytes on your computer. If a User Account Control pop-up appears, click “Yes” to continue the Malwarebytes installation.

   

3. Follow the On-Screen Prompts to Install Malwarebytes

   When the Malwarebytes installation begins, the setup wizard will guide you through the process.

   • You’ll first be prompted to choose the type of computer you’re installing the program on—select either “Personal Computer” or “Work Computer” as appropriate, then click on Next.

     

   • Malwarebytes will now begin the installation process on your device.

     

   • When the Malwarebytes installation is complete, the program will automatically open to the “Welcome to Malwarebytes” screen.

     

   • On the final screen, simply click on the Open Malwarebytes option to start the program.

     

4. Enable “Rootkit scanning”.

   Malwarebytes Anti-Malware will now start, and you will see the main screen as shown below. To maximize Malwarebytes’ ability to detect malware and unwanted programs, we need to enable rootkit scanning. Click on the “Settings” gear icon located on the left of the screen to access the general settings section.

   

   In the settings menu, enable the “Scan for rootkits” option by clicking the toggle switch until it turns blue.

   

   Now that you have enabled rootkit scanning, click on the “Dashboard” button in the left pane to get back to the main screen.

5. Perform a Scan with Malwarebytes.

   To start a scan, click the Scan button. Malwarebytes will automatically update its antivirus database and begin scanning your computer for malicious programs.

   

6. Wait for the Malwarebytes scan to complete.

   Malwarebytes will now scan your computer for browser hijackers and other malicious programs. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check the status of the scan to see when it is finished.

   

7. Quarantine detected malware

   Once the Malwarebytes scan is complete, it will display a list of detected malware, adware, and potentially unwanted programs. To effectively remove these threats, click the “Quarantine” button.

   

   Malwarebytes will now delete all of the files and registry keys and add them to the program’s quarantine.

   

8. Restart your computer.

   When removing files, Malwarebytes may require a reboot to fully eliminate some threats. If you see a message indicating that a reboot is needed, please allow it. Once your computer has restarted and you are logged back in, you can continue with the remaining steps.

   

When the malware removal process is complete, your computer should start in normal mode (if not, simply restart your device to exit Safe Mode) and continue with the rest of the instructions. We do recommend that you run another scan with Malwarebytes once you’re in Normal mode to make sure all the malicious files were removed.

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STEP 3: Use HitmanPro to scan for Trojans and other malware

In this third step, while the computer is in normal back, we will download and run a scan with HitmanPro to remove the SAGE 2.2 ransomware and other malicious programs.

HitmanPro is a second-opinion scanner that takes a unique cloud-based approach to malware scanning. HitmanPro scans the behavior of active files and also files in locations where malware normally resides for suspicious activity. If it finds a suspicious file that’s not already known, HitmanPro sends it to its clouds to be scanned by two of the best antivirus engines today, which are Bitdefender and Kaspersky.

Although HitmanPro is shareware and costs $24.95 for 1 year on 1 PC, there is no limit on scanning. The limitation only kicks in when there is a need to remove or quarantine detected malware by HitmanPro on your system and by then, you can activate the one-time 30-days trial to enable the cleanup.

1. Download HitmanPro.

   You can download HitmanPro by clicking the link below.

   HITMANPRO DOWNLOAD LINK
   (The above link will open a new web page from where you can download HitmanPro)

2. Install HitmanPro.

   When HitmanPro has finished downloading, double-click on “hitmanpro.exe” (for 32-bit versions of Windows) or “hitmanpro_x64.exe” (for 64-bit versions of Windows) to install this program on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.

   

   You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow HitmanPro to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the installation.

   

3. Follow the on-screen prompts.

   When HitmanPro starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below. Click on the “Next” button to perform a system scan.

   

   

4. Wait for the HitmanPro scan to complete.

   HitmanPro will now begin to scan your computer for malicious programs.
   

5. Click on “Next”.

   When HitmanPro has finished the scan, it will display a list of all the malware that it has found. Click on the “Next” button to have HitmanPro remove the detected items.

   

6. Click on “Activate free license”.

   HitmanPro may now require to activate the free 30-days trial to remove the malicious files. To do this, click on the “Activate free license” button to begin the free 30 days trial and remove all the malicious files from your computer.
   

   When the malware removal process is complete, it will display a screen that shows the status of the various programs that were removed. At this screen, you should click on the Next button and then if prompted you should click on the Reboot button. If HitmanPro does not prompt you to reboot, please just click on the Close button.

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STEP 4: Double-check for malicious programs with ESET Online Scanner

In this fourth step, we run a scan with ESET Online Scanner to remove any leftover files from the SAGE 2.2 ransomware and other malicious programs.

ESET Online Scanner is a free second-opinion scanner, designed to rescue your computer from malware (viruses, trojans, rootkits, etc.) that have infected your computer despite all the security measures you have taken (such as anti-virus software, firewalls, etc.).

1. Download ESET Online Scanner.

   You can download ESET Online Scanner by clicking the link below.

   

   ESET ONLINE SCANNER DOWNLOAD LINK
   (The above link will open a new web page from where you can download ESET Online Scanner)

2. Double-click on esetonlinescanner.exe to run the installer.

   When ESET Online Scanner has finished downloading, double-click on “esetonlinescanner.exe” to install it program on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.
   

3. Install ESET Online Scanner.

   When ESET Online Scanner starts you will be presented with the start screen as shown below. Select your desired language from the drop-down menu and click Get started.

   

   In the Terms of use screen, click Accept.
   

   Select your preference for the Customer Experience Improvement Program and the Detection feedback system and click Continue.
   

4. Start a Full Scan with ESET Online Scanner

   Click on Full Scan to perform an in-depth inspection of the entire computer.

   

   Select Enable for Detection of Potentially Unwanted Applications, then click Start scan.

   

5. Wait for the ESET Online Scanner scan to finish.

   ESET Online Scanner will now begin to scan your computer for malware. This process can take quite a while, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.

   

6. ESET Online Scanner will automatically remove the malicious files.

   At the end of the scan, the Found and resolved detections screen will be displayed. You can click View detailed results to view specific information. Detected threats are automatically cleaned and quarantined.
   

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STEP 5: Restore the files encrypted by the SAGE 2.2 ransomware

Unfortunately, in most cases, it’s not possible to recover the files encrypted by this ransomware virus because the private key which is needed to unlock the encrypted files is only available through the attackers. However, below we’ve listed three options you can use to try and recover your files.

Option 1: Search a decryption tool for this ransomware

The cybersecurity community is constantly working to create ransomware decryption tools, so you can try to search these sites for updates:

• https://id-ransomware.malwarehunterteam.com/
• https://decrypter.emsisoft.com/
• https://noransom.kaspersky.com/
• https://www.avast.com/ransomware-decryption-tools

Option 2: Use EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free to recover the encrypted files

EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free can restore files and repair corrupted files with simple clicks. Its powerful scanning algorithms can identify and retrieve huge file type library, including all of the popular video files, audio files, photos, and document formats.
While the free version only allows you to recover 2 GB of data, this can be helpful to see if the recovery is possible and restore back the most important files from your computer.

1. Download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free.

   You can download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free by clicking the link below.

   

   EASEUS DATA RECOVERY WIZARD FREE DOWNLOAD LINK
   (The above link will open a new page from where you can download EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard)

2. Double-click on the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free setup file.

   When EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free has finished downloading, double-click on the setup file to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard on your computer. In most cases, downloaded files are saved to the Downloads folder.

   

   You may be presented with a User Account Control pop-up asking if you want to allow EaseUS to make changes to your device. If this happens, you should click “Yes” to continue with the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard Free installation.

3. Follow the on-screen prompts to install EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard.

   When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation begins, click on the “Install Now” as seen in the image below.
   

   When your EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard installation completes, click the “Start Now” button to start the program.
   

4. Select a location to start recovering the encrypted files.

   Choose the drive or folder where you are the encrypted files that you want to recover and click “Scan“.
   

5. Wait for the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan to complete.

   EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard will now scan your computer files that can be restored. This process can take a few minutes, so we suggest you do something else and periodically check on the status of the scan to see when it is finished.
   

6. Find the files you want to recover.

   When the EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard scan is finished scanning it will show a screen that displays the files that can be recovered. This tool can recover a lot of data, use the “Filter” button to quickly filter specific file types and find the files that you want to recover.
   

   Click the “Preview” button or double-click on a file for a full preview.
   

7. Select your files and click “Recover”.

   Finally, select the the files you want to recover and click “Recover“.
   
   Choose a safe location to save all the files.
   
   The free version only allow you to recover 2 GB of data, however, this will allow you to recover the most important files and see if EaseUS Data Recovery Wizard can correctly recover them.
   

Option 3: Try to restore your files with ShadowExplorer

This ransomware will attempt to delete all shadow copies when you first start any executable on your computer after becoming infected. Thankfully, the infection is not always able to remove the shadow copies, so you should continue to try restoring your files using this method.

1. Download ShadowExplorer.

   You can download ShadowExplorer from the below link.

   SHADOW EXPLORER DOWNLOAD LINK
   (This link will open a new web page from where you can download “ShadowExplorer”)

2. Install ShadowExplorer.

   Double-click on the ShadowExplorer-x.x-setup file to start the installation process, then follow the on-screen promts to install this program.
   

3. Select snapshot date.

   Open ShadowExplorer and then from the top bar select the drive where the files that you want to save are located, then select from the snapshot available one previous to this infection.

   

4. Export the files that you want to recover.

   Once you have found a copy of the original file or folder, right-click on it and the select “Export”. A window will prompt you where you want to save the file or folder.
   

Your computer should now be free of the SAGE 2.2 ransomware infection and other malware.

If your current antivirus allowed this malicious program on your computer, you may want to consider purchasing the full-featured version of Malwarebytes Anti-Malware to protect against these types of threats in the future.
If you are still having problems with your computer after completing these instructions, then please follow one of the steps:

• Run a computer scan with Emsisoft Emergency Kit
• Ask for help in our Malware Removal Assistance for Windows forum.

Frequently Asked Questions About the SAGE 2.2 Ransomware

1. What is the SAGE 2.2 ransomware?

SAGE 2.2 is a dangerous ransomware variant in the Dharma family known for encrypting files on compromised systems. It appends the .sage extension and ransom note to encrypted files and demands payment for decryption keys. SAGE 2.2 utilizes strong encryption algorithms and also deletes Volume Shadow Copies to block recovery.

2. How does the SAGE 2.2 ransomware infect systems?

SAGE 2.2 leverages various infection vectors like phishing emails, brute force RDP attacks, software exploits, malvertising campaigns, and compromised software downloads. Social engineering is used heavily to trick users into enabling its installation.

3. What types of files does SAGE 2.2 ransomware encrypt?

SAGE 2.2 encrypts a broad range including documents, media files, databases, backups, network shares, and critical system files. This indiscriminate approach maximizes damage and leverage over victims.

4. How can I tell if SAGE 2.2 ransomware is encrypting my system?

Signs like files appended with ID and .sage, ransom notes in each folder, changed desktop backgrounds, disabling of antivirus, and deletion of shadow copies may indicate SAGE 2.2 activity. Rapid detection can limit damage.

5. Should I pay the ransom if infected with SAGE 2.2?

No, we strongly advise against paying the ransom. There is no guarantee you will receive working decryption keys in return, and it encourages more ransomware attacks. Restore from backups instead.

6. How can I recover encrypted files without paying the ransom?

Having a recent, offline data backup that SAGE 2.2 did not compromise allows you to restore encrypted files. You can also check if any free decryptors have been released to unlock files encrypted by the specific SAGE 2.2 variant.

7. Can antivirus or firewalls block the SAGE 2.2 ransomware?

Antivirus with behavioral analysis and firewalls can potentially detect and block processes associated with SAGE 2.2 activity. However multiple layers of security are ideal, since threats are constantly evolving.

8. Is there any way to decrypt .sage encrypted files without the key?

No unfortunately the strong encryption used by SAGE 2.2 essentially makes files unrecoverable without the attacker’s unique decryption key. This is why preventing infection is so crucial.

9. Who is responsible for creating and spreading SAGE 2.2 ransomware?

The origins are unclear but cybercriminal groups and state-sponsored actors have been tied to similar ransomware strains. The decentralized nature makes attribution difficult. Global law enforcement is investigating.

10. How can I improve my defenses against ransomware like SAGE 2.2?

Keeping software patched, securing RDP access, filtering email attachments/links, training staff on threats, segmenting networks, and maintaining offline backups are key best practices against ransomware attacks.

The Bottom Line

The SAGE 2.2 ransomware and its variants represent a dangerous threat capable of inflicting tremendous damage due to its robust encryption tactics, multi-pronged infection methods, and global reach.

However, by understanding SAGE 2.2’s core behaviors and technical capabilities covered in this article, organizations are empowered to detect potential attacks early and implement layered defenses to significantly lower the risk.

The key takeaways include:

• SAGE 2.2 utilizes social engineering, software exploits, supply chain compromise, and RDP brute forcing to infiltrate systems.
• The ransomware encrypts local drives, networks shares, backups, databases, and critical files.
• Warning signs like changed file extensions, ransom notes, and shadow copy deletion can signal SAGE 2.2 activity.
• Preventive controls like patch management, email security, tight RDP access, endpoint protection, and user education provide protection.
• Offline, immutable backups allow restoration of encrypted data without paying ransoms.
• Quick isolation, scoping the infection, and contacting experts are key incident response steps.

By putting these lessons into action, individuals and organizations can bolster their resilience against ransomware while depriving attackers of illicit profits. Vigilance and preparation are our best defenses against malware like SAGE 2.2.