Ransomware Research
4rw5w Ransomware
4rw5w is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- 4rw5w
- First Seen
- May 1, 2017
How 4rw5w Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Requires C&C (works with FakeNetNG)
File Encryption Patterns
4rw5w modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..4rwcry4wRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, 4rw5w displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
Ransom message:
notes/note.txt
Note locations:
LoginTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with 4rw5w ransomware:
4rw4w.exe
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About This Analysis
This 4rw5w 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 4rw5w.
Last updated: July 30, 2025