Ransomware Research
Mars Ransomware
Mars is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Mars
- First Seen
- November 1, 2020
How Mars Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
NOSAMPLE https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/734579/mars-nas-ransomware-mars;-mars-decrypttxt-support-topic/page-7#entry5128688 33fe127319dbdfdd4130feaabba4ba72398b9a8dfa905ed8d30a88663ff11bbd -> decryptor
File Encryption Patterns
Mars modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..mars..vybRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Mars displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
!!!MARS_DECRYPT.TXTRansom message:
notes/!!!MARS_DECRYPT.TXT
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About This Analysis
This Mars 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 Mars.
Last updated: July 30, 2025