Ransomware Research
JOKER Ransomware
JOKER is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on July 1, 2024, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- JOKER
- First Seen
- July 1, 2024
How JOKER Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Incorrect XMR in ransom note -> 48XxCcL849CiC3NqViPWbUfURFpKvsszvBuV4kZBy6nC9BrdCLsZ3rYH2gQ1wPbJHEE2srPiL4sP48attXfTRFUZQwjhXW
File Encryption Patterns
JOKER modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
./\.[0-9a-z]{4}$/..encryptedRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, JOKER displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
read_it.txtRansom message:
notes/read_it.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderNOTE FROM THE HACKERS.txtRansom message:
notes/NOTE FROM THE HACKERS.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderRansom message:
notes/ju3z51i4j.jpg
Note locations:
DesktopRansom message:
notes/2k709lio6.jpg
Note locations:
DesktopTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with JOKER ransomware:
JokersBox.exesvchost.exe
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About This Analysis
This JOKER 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 JOKER.
Last updated: July 30, 2025