Ransomware Research
LMAO Ransomware
LMAO is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2023, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- LMAO
- First Seen
- May 1, 2023
How LMAO Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
https://tria.ge/230601-c46axscb34 Base-64 encoded content (XML)
File Encryption Patterns
LMAO modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..LMAORansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, LMAO displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
read_it.txtRansom message:
notes/read_it.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with LMAO ransomware:
update1.exesvchost.exe
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About This Analysis
This LMAO 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 LMAO.
Last updated: July 30, 2025