Ransomware Research
SantaCrypt Ransomware
SantaCrypt is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- SantaCrypt
- First Seen
- January 1, 2019
How SantaCrypt Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Written in AutoIt
File Encryption Patterns
SantaCrypt modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..$ANTARansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, SantaCrypt displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
HOW_TO_RECOVER_MY_FILES.TXTRansom message:
notes/HOW_TO_RECOVER_MY_FILES.TXT
Note locations:
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About This Analysis
This SantaCrypt 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 SantaCrypt.
Last updated: July 30, 2025