Ransomware Research

Mekwyk Ransomware

Mekwyk is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2023, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
Mekwyk
First Seen
January 1, 2023

How Mekwyk Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

Mekwyk modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

File extensions added after encryption:

..mekwyk

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileRESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt

Ransom message:

notes/RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt

Note locations:

RootDiscsDesktop

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with Mekwyk ransomware:

  • local.exe

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About This Analysis

This Mekwyk 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 Mekwyk.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

Mekwyk Ransomware - Detectable by Elastio