Ransomware Research
MafiaWare Ransomware
MafiaWare is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Depsex.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- MafiaWare
- First Seen
- January 1, 2017
- Known Aliases
- Depsex
How MafiaWare Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Requires C&C to send data
File Encryption Patterns
MafiaWare modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..Locked-Mafiaware..locked-by-mafiaRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, MafiaWare displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
READ_ME.txtRansom message:
notes/READ_ME.txt
Note locations:
DesktopTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with MafiaWare ransomware:
mafiaware.exeaab_80.exehidden-tear.exe
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About This Analysis
This MafiaWare 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 MafiaWare.
Last updated: July 30, 2025