MerryChristmas Ransomware
MerryChristmas is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: MRCR1.
Quick facts
How MerryChristmas ransomware works
File encryption patterns
MerryChristmas modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, MerryChristmas displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/YOUR_FILES_ARE_DEAD.HTA
notes/MERRY_I_LOVE_YOU_BRUCE.HTA
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with MerryChristmas ransomware:
- MicrRp.exe
- MicrRp
- Trojan.Ransom.MerryXMas.exe
- TTT201718.vir.HSvir
- 1.vir.HSvir
- COMPLAINT.pdf.exe
- COMPLAINT.exe
- TTT20170104-18.exe
- Roaming.eXe
- Roaming.eX
- Roaming.vir.HSvir
- PGPClient.exe
- xmas.exe
- XMas Ransomware.exe
- sample1.exe
- YOUR_FILES_ARE_DEAD.HTA
- unk_ransom.exe_0x1640000-0x28000.bin
- 6666666666666666.exe
- file6.exe
- file.exe
- x.exe
Recovery and decryption tools
Decryption tools may be available for MerryChristmas. Review the resources below:
About this analysis
This MerryChristmas 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 MerryChristmas.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects MerryChristmas inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify MerryChristmas 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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