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..ap19

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

file!!! Readme For Decrypt !!!.txt

Ransom message:

notes/!!! Readme For Decrypt !!!.txt

Note locations:

UserFolders

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with MarsJoke ransomware:

  • sysmonitor.exe
  • cdwudinv.exe
  • hwfhrzla.exe
  • myfile.exe
  • копия_решения_суда.docx .exe
  • 11
  • bb
  • cfchbmaw.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

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