Ransomware Research

MerryChristmas Ransomware

MerryChristmas is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: MRCR1.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
MerryChristmas
First Seen
January 1, 2017
Known Aliases
MRCR1

How MerryChristmas Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..RMCM1..MERRY

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileYOUR_FILES_ARE_DEAD.HTA

Ransom message:

notes/YOUR_FILES_ARE_DEAD.HTA

Note locations:

EveryFolder
fileMERRY_I_LOVE_YOU_BRUCE.HTA

Ransom message:

notes/MERRY_I_LOVE_YOU_BRUCE.HTA

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with MerryChristmas ransomware:

  • MicrRp.exe
  • MicrRp
  • Trojan.Ransom.MerryXMas.exe
  • TTT201718.vir.HSvir
  • 1.vir.HSvir
  • COMPLAINT.pdf.exe
  • COMPLAINT.exe
  • TTT20170104-18.exe
  • Roaming.eXe
  • Roaming.eX
  • Roaming.vir.HSvir
  • PGPClient.exe
  • xmas.exe
  • XMas Ransomware.exe
  • sample1.exe
  • YOUR_FILES_ARE_DEAD.HTA
  • unk_ransom.exe_0x1640000-0x28000.bin
  • 6666666666666666.exe
  • file6.exe
  • file.exe
  • x.exe

Recovery and Decryption Tools

Good news! Decryption tools are available for MerryChristmas ransomware:

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About This Analysis

This MerryChristmas 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 MerryChristmas.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

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