Ransomware Research
MasterBuster Ransomware
MasterBuster is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on December 1, 2015, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- MasterBuster
- First Seen
- December 1, 2015
How MasterBuster Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Requires C&C to send data
File Encryption Patterns
MasterBuster modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..hckedRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, MasterBuster displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
READ_THIS_FILE_IMPORTANT.txtRansom message:
notes/READ_THIS_FILE_IMPORTANT.txt
Note locations:
DesktopTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with MasterBuster ransomware:
MasterBuster.exe
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About This Analysis
This MasterBuster 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 MasterBuster.
Last updated: July 30, 2025