Ransomware Research
ShadowCryptor Ransomware
ShadowCryptor is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Shadow Cryptor.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- ShadowCryptor
- First Seen
- November 1, 2016
- Known Aliases
- Shadow Cryptor
How ShadowCryptor Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Full extension of encrypted files -> .[charlieAdmin@mail2tor.com]ID=XXXXXX.!Charlie
File Encryption Patterns
ShadowCryptor modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
./\.[A-F0-9]{6}$/..!palang..!shadow..!CharlieRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, ShadowCryptor displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
/^[A-F0-9]{6}-DECRYPT\.txt$/Ransom message:
notes/4312A8-DECRYPT.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolder!ENCRYPTED-README.hta!README!.txtRansom message:
notes/!README!.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolder!README!.htaRansom message:
notes/!README!.hta
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with ShadowCryptor ransomware:
update.dll-201611301446.dll.exeE.exe
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About This Analysis
This ShadowCryptor 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 ShadowCryptor.
Last updated: July 30, 2025