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:
RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt
Ransom message:
notes/RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt
Note locations:
RootDiscs
Desktop
Technical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Mekwyk ransomware:
local.exe
Elastio Can Help You
Don't let Mekwyk ransomware take over your data
Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions to keep your organization safe.
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