Ransomware Research
MegaCortex Ransomware
MegaCortex is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on April 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: MegaCortex 2.0-4.0.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- MegaCortex
- First Seen
- April 1, 2019
- Known Aliases
- MegaCortex 2.0-4.0
How MegaCortex Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
MegaCortex modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..aes128ctr..megac0rtx..m3gac0rtx..m3g4c0rtxRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, MegaCortex displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
!!!_READ_ME_!!!.txtRansom message:
notes/!!!_READ_ME_!!!.txt
!!!_READ-ME_!!!.txtRansom message:
notes/!!!_READ-ME_!!!.txt
!-!_README_!-!.rtfRansom message:
notes/!-!_README_!-!.rtf
Note locations:
RootDiscsDesktopTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with MegaCortex ransomware:
330835.exewinnit.binwinnit.exeRAND_NAMEsmple.exesmple_3030743476.exeenv.exe
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About This Analysis
This MegaCortex 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 MegaCortex.
Last updated: October 30, 2025
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