Ransomware Research
Armage Ransomware
Armage is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on July 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: QNBQW, zzz12.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Armage
- First Seen
- July 1, 2018
- Known Aliases
- QNBQWzzz12
How Armage Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Encrypts first 1Mb https://app.any.run/tasks/4a79bb96-0cd9-4390-928b-c3881a231c5b/
File Encryption Patterns
Armage modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..qnbqw..zzz12..armageRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Armage displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
Notice.txtRansom message:
notes/Notice.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Armage ransomware:
Armage.exeArmage.ransom.exe
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About This Analysis
This Armage ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like Armage.
Last updated: July 30, 2025