Ransomware Research
El Ransomware
El is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on October 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: WAND.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- El
- First Seen
- October 1, 2018
- Known Aliases
- WAND
How El Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Current sample looks like a part of ransomware (contsins code for decryption)
File Encryption Patterns
El modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..WANDRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, El displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
About .WAND unlocking instructionsRansom message:
notes/About .WAND unlocking instructions
Ransom message:
notes/note.txt
Note locations:
OnceOnCompletionTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with El ransomware:
Desencriptar.exe
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About This Analysis
This El 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 El.
Last updated: July 30, 2025