Ransomware Research

PyAesCrypt Ransomware

PyAesCrypt is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on April 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Marduk.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
PyAesCrypt
First Seen
April 1, 2019
Known Aliases
Marduk

How PyAesCrypt Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Written in Python (PyInstaller)

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..lock

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

file/^ReadMe ([0-1]{1})?[0-9]{1}\.txt$/

Ransom message:

notes/ReadMe 0.txt

Note locations:

Desktop

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with PyAesCrypt ransomware:

  • dll.exe
  • PyAesCrypt.exe
  • 123.exe

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About This Analysis

This PyAesCrypt 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 PyAesCrypt.

Last updated: July 30, 2025