Ransomware Research

Maoloa Ransomware

Maoloa is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on September 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Unnamed RDP-Reset.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
Maoloa
First Seen
September 1, 2018
Known Aliases
Unnamed RDP-Reset

How Maoloa Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Encrypts every 32 bytes There is informatopn about info.html ransom note, not confirmed

File Encryption Patterns

Maoloa modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

File extensions added after encryption:

..maoloa..Ox4444..brydreed..Alco4444..Mr-X666..Tiger4444..tabufa..systems32x..Pig4444..[epta.mcold@gmail.com]..middleman2020..pig4444..Horse4444..shelbyboom..diller13..Rabbit4444..decrypt019..system32x..Encrypted..charlie.j0hnson

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

After encrypting files, Maoloa displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

fileHOW BACK YOUR FILES.txt

Ransom message:

notes/HOW BACK YOUR FILES.txt
fileHOW TO BACK YOUR FILES.txt

Ransom message:

notes/HOW TO BACK YOUR FILES.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
filehow_to_back_files.html
file!INSTRUCTI0NS!.TXT

Ransom message:

notes/!INSTRUCTI0NS!.TXT
fileHOW_TO_BACK_FILES.txt

Ransom message:

notes/HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
fileHOW TO RETURN YOU FILES.exe

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with Maoloa ransomware:

  • test_v.doc
  • svhost.exe
  • GlobeImposter.exe
  • Tiger4444.exe
  • !!INSTRUCTIONS!!.exe
  • ShrtcmingLayout
  • ShrtcmingLayout.exe
  • msopsm.exe
  • system32x.exe
  • Data Recovery.bin
  • CSRSS.Exe
  • crss.exe

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About This Analysis

This Maoloa 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 Maoloa.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

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