Ransomware Research
Pony Ransomware
Pony is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on February 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Pony_XXX, 05ntoar0.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Pony
- First Seen
- February 1, 2019
- Known Aliases
- Pony_XXX05ntoar0
How Pony Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
Pony modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..crypted_pony_test_build_xxx_xxx_xxx_xxx_xxxRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Pony displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
IF_YOU_WANT_TO_GET_ALL_YOUR_FILES_BACK_PLEASE_READ_THIS.HTMLRansom message:
notes/IF_YOU_WANT_TO_GET_ALL_YOUR_FILES_BACK_PLEASE_READ_THIS.HTML
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Pony ransomware:
pony(3).exepony.exepony (2).exe6.exe05ntoar0.exeChrome.pif
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About This Analysis
This Pony 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 Pony.
Last updated: October 30, 2025
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