Ransomware Research

Project Root Ransomware

Project Root is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on September 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
Project Root
First Seen
September 1, 2020

How Project Root Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Written on Go. Contains VM check

File Encryption Patterns

Project Root modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

File extensions added after encryption:

..Lulz

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileFuck.txt

Ransom message:

notes/Fuck.txt

Note locations:

Desktop

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with Project Root ransomware:

  • 22cobblerelfs3232.bin

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About This Analysis

This Project Root 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 Project Root.

Last updated: July 30, 2025