Mao Ransomware
Mao is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2023, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick facts
How Mao ransomware works
File encryption patterns
Mao modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, Mao displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/info.txt
notes/Info.hta
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with Mao ransomware:
- program.exe
- executable.exe
About this analysis
This Mao ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like Mao.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects Mao inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Mao across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.
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