Ransomware Research
MarsJoke Ransomware
MarsJoke is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on August 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Runner, Polyglot.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- MarsJoke
- First Seen
- August 1, 2016
- Known Aliases
- RunnerPolyglot
How MarsJoke Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
https://app.any.run/tasks/dfa4051c-c568-4f2d-99ef-6c182ee0ddc7/
File Encryption Patterns
MarsJoke modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..a19..ap19Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, MarsJoke displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
!!! Readme For Decrypt !!!.txtRansom message:
notes/!!! Readme For Decrypt !!!.txt
Note locations:
UserFoldersTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with MarsJoke ransomware:
sysmonitor.execdwudinv.exehwfhrzla.exemyfile.exeкопия_решения_суда.docx .exe11bbcfchbmaw.exe
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About This Analysis
This MarsJoke 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 MarsJoke.
Last updated: July 30, 2025