Ransomware Research
WininiCrypt Ransomware
WininiCrypt is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on August 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: ChoDambler.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- WininiCrypt
- First Seen
- August 1, 2017
- Known Aliases
- ChoDambler
How WininiCrypt Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Requires .publicKey (BLOB) 4096 byte RSA key
File Encryption Patterns
WininiCrypt modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..[cho.dambler@yandex.com]Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, WininiCrypt displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.htmlRansom message:
notes/HOW_TO_BACK_FILES.html
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with WininiCrypt ransomware:
winini.exeSetupCrypt.exe$R8SYYU1.exe
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About This Analysis
This WininiCrypt 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 WininiCrypt.
Last updated: July 30, 2025