Dark Web Profile: Mallox Ransomware – SOCRadar

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Mallox, a strain of ransomware and a group with the same name, encrypts its victims’ data and subsequently demands a ransom, typically in cryptocurrency, in return for providing the decryption key, just as a usual ransomware operator. However, this ransomware exhibited more destructiveness than many other ransomware variants in some cases. The Mallox ransomware strain and the group behind it, has been operational since around mid-2021 and is still active as of 2024.
Mallox is also called “TargetCompany,” “Tohnichi,” or “Fargo” ransomware and has been active since 2021. The group behind Mallox specializes in multi-extortion tactics, encrypting victim data and issuing threats to publish it on their public TOR-based websites.

Threat actor card of Mallox Ransomware
According to SuspectFile’s interview blog with this ransomware group, Mallox stands out as one of the longest-running ransomware groups that remain active today (The interview was in the first month of 2023 and they are still active). The first encounter with its file samples dates back to June 2021, during which industry analysts initially labeled it as “TargetCompany ransomware.”

Uploaded samples of Mallox to Malwarebazaar over the years
A year later, around mid to late 2022, the group gained the name Fargo due to an extension added to encrypted files. Presently, it is identified as Mallox ransomware. During 2022, researchers recorded a surge in Mallox samples.

Mallox website is named as Mallox Data Leaks
While the successful operations of law enforcement agencies and counter ransomware initiatives continued to crack down on ransomware groups, many groups focused only on data leak and extortion. Mallox named their website as Mallox Data Leak on its home page. One question that comes to mind is, do they only do extortion anymore?
However, Mallox strains continue to appear around, and some companies have already been attacked with Mallox strains in 2024. Therefore for Mallox its not possible to say that they are now just an extortion group.
Initial Access Strategies:
Mallox Ransomware employs various techniques to gain initial access to target systems. This includes:
Persistence Mechanisms:
Once initial access is gained, Mallox ensures persistence on the compromised systems through various methods:

With PowerShell Mallox creates files in the recycle bin to hide itself (JoeSandbox)
Privilege Escalation Techniques:
Mallox employs privilege escalation tactics to elevate its access privileges within the compromised network:
Network Enumeration and Reconnaissance:
Before moving laterally within the network, Mallox conducts thorough network enumeration and reconnaissance:

Whenever possible, it communicates with the C2 server to transfer commands and files. (Any.run report)
Lateral Movement Strategies:
Once familiar with the network, Mallox initiates lateral movement to expand its reach and compromise additional systems:
Data Exfiltration Techniques:
Mallox Ransomware often includes data exfiltration as part of its operation to maximize the impact of the attack:
Preparation for Encryption:
Before initiating the encryption process, Mallox takes specific preparatory steps to ensure a successful and widespread impact:

By deleting critical services related to SQL Server and forcefully terminating processes, the ransomware aims to disrupt the normal functioning of the victim’s system (Any.run report)
File Encryption Procedures:
Mallox Ransomware employs advanced encryption techniques to render files inaccessible and demand ransom for decryption:

 Shadow copies are backups created by Windows to allow users to restore previous versions of files. By deleting these shadow copies, Mallox tries to prevent users from using built-in recovery options to restore their encrypted files. (JoeSandbox)
Ransom Note Delivery:
After encrypting files, Mallox delivers ransom notes to inform victims of the encryption and provide instructions for ransom payment:

Mallox drops countless HOW TO BACK FILES.txt (Any.run report)
Ransom Payment Infrastructure:
Mallox establishes a ransom payment infrastructure to facilitate communication and payment processing with victims:

Ransom note delivery, victims are also instructed to install TOR to access their data leak site (Any.run report)
These steps illustrate the systematic and sophisticated approach employed by Mallox Ransomware throughout its attack lifecycle, from initial access to ransom payment facilitation.
There are only 42 victims on the currently live leak site of Mallox, which has victims from almost all over the world over the years. These countries in the graph below are portrayed in parallel with their targeting intensity but only according to Mallox’s latest leak site’s index.

Targeted countries by Mallox as indexed by their data leak site
Mallox, whose hundreds of attacks have been reported over the years, continues to be a detected strain, although it is not as active as before. However, it seems to be one of the candidate groups to fill the gap in the ransomware landscape, especially after the operations carried out against large ransomware operators.
Even though it is certain that there are Russian hackers among the members of the group, we are not sure about calling the group completely Russia-based. Although former USSR countries are not targeted, unlike typical Russian-based ransomware, there is an attack targeting China.

Latest uploaded sample make contact with a Russia-based IP address (JoeSandbox)
Iran is not among the targets, although the group has intensive operations in the Middle East. Therefore, we can say that they are probably a Russia-based ransomware, but there are minor doubts.

Indexed victim’s associated industries
There is no definitive target for Mallox ransomware, which has victims in almost every sector, but Professional, Scientific and Technical Services, Information, and Retail Trade appear to be the main targeted sectors.

A recent victim listing by Mallox
When you enter an indexed victim’s page on their data leak site, a text introducing the company, revenue, and the size of the leak is written. They upload data leaks to file sharing sites accessible on the clear web. In this example, pixeldrain[.]com is used and the password to access the file is given.

Uploaded file on pixeldrain[.]com
The uploaded file was viewed only 29 times and downloaded 6 times. While this number rises to thousands even in ransomware groups whose impact is thought to be much smaller, Mallox’s leak had very little impact. While the uploaded file is claimed to be 3+ GB, the .rar version takes up 2 GB and the file was uploaded to the file sharing website 2 hours before it was uploaded to data leak sites.
By implementing these strategies, organizations can significantly reduce the risk of Mallox ransomware attacks and enhance overall cybersecurity resilience.
SOCRadar presents a formidable defense against the Mallox ransomware threat. Our proactive threat monitoring and intelligence solutions are tailored to enhance your organization’s security stance. With our platform, you can actively track and analyze specific threat actors, gaining deep insights into their tactics, targeted vulnerabilities, affiliations, and indicators of compromise. This proactive approach empowers you to anticipate and counter potential threats effectively, safeguarding your valuable assets.

SOCRadar, Attack Surface Management Module with Ransomware Check function
Furthermore, our Attack Surface Management module, equipped with the Ransomware Check function, offers continuous monitoring of all potential attack vectors. This ensures that you receive real-time alerts regarding any suspicious activities related to ransomware. By staying ahead of threats, you can swiftly respond and fortify your cybersecurity defenses, mitigating the risk posed by Mallox ransomware and other emerging threats.

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