Ransomware Research
SynAck Ransomware
SynAck is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: El_Cometa.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- SynAck
- First Seen
- May 1, 2018
- Known Aliases
- El_Cometa
How SynAck Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/synack-ransomware-releases-decryption-keys-after-el-cometa-rebrand/ https://therecord.media/synack-ransomware-gang-releases-decryption-keys-for-old-victims https://www.joesandbox.com/analysis/398980/0/html https://securelist.com/synack-targeted-ransomware-uses-the-doppelganging-technique/85431/ Should start from "output" or "plugins" folder Doesn't work on Win7+ OS
File Encryption Patterns
SynAck modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
./\.[A-Za-z0-9]{10}$/Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, SynAck displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
/^==READ==THIS==PLEASE==[A-F0-9]{8}\.txt$/Ransom message:
notes/==READ==THIS==PLEASE==A20F8D7A.txt
Technical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with SynAck ransomware:
synack.exemyfile.exe8c.exesmart.exe7b.exe
Recovery and Decryption Tools
Good news! Decryption tools are available for SynAck ransomware:
0
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About This Analysis
This SynAck 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 SynAck.
Last updated: July 30, 2025