Beluga Ransomware Decryptor
A Beluga ransomware breach can dismantle an entire operation within minutes. Once the attack activates, essential files across servers and workstations are locked, restructured, and renamed with a distinctive nine-character extension such as .cFiEyWdiW. These encrypted assets become inaccessible, halting workflows and placing organizations under extreme pressure.
Fortunately, there is no need to panic — our incident-response and recovery division specializes in LockBit-derived ransomware families, including Beluga, and provides a custom-built decryptor designed specifically for this threat.
Our recovery utility is engineered through deep analysis of the LockBit 3.0 Black builder leak, which also serves as the foundation for Beluga. By examining encrypted file structures, correlating metadata with ransom note details, and using our secure cloud-based infrastructure, our decryptor can restore data safely — without paying Beluga operators or exposing your network to further harm.
How Our Beluga Ransomware Decryptor Works
Reverse-Engineered Recovery Engine
Beluga is created using the leaked LockBit 3.0 Black (CriptomanGizmo) builder. Our researchers studied this builder extensively to understand how it performs symmetric encryption, wraps keys, manipulates metadata, and generates extension-specific ransom components. With this insight, we developed a decryptor that can reverse Beluga-specific behaviors when conditions allow, ensuring accuracy during reconstruction.
Cloud-Isolated Decryption Environment
Rather than decrypting data directly on the compromised system, our solution operates in a secure, isolated cloud environment. This approach provides:
- A sandboxed forensic container for analyzing encrypted samples
- Full logging of every operation for transparency and auditing
- Zero exposure of restored files to the infected system
- Validation of file integrity before recovered content is returned
Your original encrypted files remain untouched until a safe recovery path is established.
Fraud Prevention & Verification
To maintain maximum safety, we never attempt decryption until viability is confirmed. We require:
- Several encrypted files
- The ransom note (cFiEyWdiW.README.txt)
- The attacker-assigned 32-character decryption ID
Our team evaluates the data, confirms variant alignment, and protects victims from fraudulent “recovery services” or extortion schemes frequently associated with LockBit-derived ransomware.
Step-By-Step Beluga Decryption & Recovery Guide Using Our BELUGA Decryptor
Assess the Infection
Verify that files across the system have been encrypted and renamed with a randomly generated extension, such as .cFiEyWdiW. Check that the ransom note — typically cFiEyWdiW.README.txt — is present within affected directories.
Secure the Environment
Immediately isolate the compromised device from all networks. Disable wireless connections, unplug Ethernet cables, and halt remote-access services to prevent Beluga from expanding across the network or encrypting additional devices.
Submit Files for Analysis
Provide our analysts with several encrypted files and the ransom note. This step allows us to confirm whether the infection matches Beluga’s LockBit-based profile, evaluate structural encryption patterns, and estimate the expected recovery timeframe.
Run the Beluga Decryptor
Once the encrypted samples are analyzed, we will walk you through deploying our cloud-linked Beluga decryptor. Administrative access may be needed to ensure the tool can identify and process all encrypted paths.
Enter Victim ID
Enter the decryption ID contained within the ransom note. This identifier is essential for constructing a decryption profile tailored to your Beluga sample.
Allow Automated Restoration to Finish
The decryptor will scan encrypted files, reconstruct them, validate the restored output, and prepare the final recovered data. No additional manual intervention is required once the process begins.
What is Beluga Ransomware?
Beluga ransomware is a threat actor operation built on top of the LockBit 3.0 Black leaked builder, which has allowed numerous groups to create customized variants. Beluga functions in the same manner as classic LockBit 3.0 Black attacks but employs its own branding (“Beluga Ransomware Team”).
The strain encrypts files using a nine-character randomized extension and generates a ransom note containing a 32-hexadecimal decryption ID. It instructs victims to reach out over a TOX-based anonymous communication channel — a method favored for its privacy and difficulty to trace.
Beluga’s operators warn victims not to modify encrypted files, attempt recovery on their own, or involve third parties, claiming that any such action may cause irreversible damage. Although the ransom note does not explicitly mention data theft, its structure mirrors double-extortion patterns widely used by LockBit affiliates.
Beluga Ransomware Encryption Analysis
Beluga inherits LockBit 3.0 Black’s hybrid cryptographic model, enabling fast multi-file encryption while preventing unauthorized decryption.
Symmetric Encryption (File Data Layer)
Beluga likely uses high-performance encryption algorithms such as:
- AES-256-CBC
- AES-256-GCM
- ChaCha20 (fallback on older processors)
These algorithms encrypt entire files, not just headers or blocks, producing uniform high-entropy ciphertext. Each file receives its own unique key, preventing mass decryption with a single key.
Asymmetric Encryption (Key-Wrapping Layer)
After symmetric encryption, Beluga encrypts each file’s AES key using:
- RSA-4096
- or Curve25519 key exchange
This ensures only the attacker’s private key can decrypt the wrapped keys.
Observed LockBit Black Behavioral Traits in Beluga
Consistent with LockBit 3.0 Black, Beluga:
- Removes headers and metadata
- Produces random ciphertext with no identifiable patterns
- Generates unique file keys
- Leaves no plaintext fragments
- Uses randomized extensions tied to the ransom note name
These traits make manual recovery impossible without the attackers’ decryption key unless implementation flaws exist.
Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) for Beluga Ransomware
File-Based Indicators
Encrypted files appear with a nine-character extension such as .cFiEyWdiW, alongside a ransom note of the same name. Timestamps may shift, and file structures become corrupted beyond recognition.
Behavioral Indicators
Systems may show sudden performance drops, crashes in dependent applications, or forced termination of antivirus processes. Large-scale renaming operations typically occur during encryption.
Network Indicators
Beluga communicates through the TOX protocol. Although TOX traffic is decentralized and difficult to inspect, unusual P2P activity may be visible. The malware may also attempt outbound authentication using stolen credentials.
System Indicators
Registry entries may be altered to maintain persistence. Shadow copies may be deleted, and event logs may be wiped or manipulated.
Key Features & Modus Operandi of Beluga Ransomware
Beluga follows a mature ransomware operator workflow:
- Manual intrusions rather than automated spray attacks
- Extensive reconnaissance before payload deployment
- Use of legitimate administrative tools for stealth
- Disabling or bypassing security defenses
- Encryption timed for low-activity periods
- Deployment of psychological pressure through the ransom note
These tactics reflect a threat actor that understands enterprise environments and uses intimidation to force rapid negotiation.
Beluga Ransomware Attacks on Windows, Linux & Remote Access (RDP) Environments
Windows Systems
Windows platforms remain Beluga’s main target due to their prevalence in corporate networks.
Entry Points
Frequently include RDP compromise, phishing attachments, and exploitation of outdated Windows components.
Post-Entry Actions
Beluga attempts to disable AV/EDR tools, delete shadow copies, and move laterally through the domain using PsExec, WMI, or PowerShell.
Impact
Endpoints, servers, and shared drives become locked, halting operations across departments.
Linux Servers
While no Beluga Linux samples have been confirmed, LockBit 3.0 Black variants have historically supported Linux payloads.
Potential Targets
Web servers, database systems, application hosts, and backup storage.
Post-Compromise Behavior
Likely includes encrypting mounted directories, terminating database processes, and targeting configuration repositories.
RDP Gateways & Remote Access
Beluga operators consistently exploit weak or exposed remote access.
Weaknesses Exploited
Open RDP ports, missing MFA, unsecured remote-management tools.
After Access
Attackers pivot across servers, erase logs, kill backup processes, and deploy ransomware organization-wide.
Emergency DO & DON’T Action Guide After a Beluga Infection
What You Should Do Immediately
Disconnect the impacted system from all networks. Preserve encrypted files, ransom notes, diagnostic data, and logs. Alert internal teams and prepare for controlled shutdowns if encryption is ongoing.
What You Should Not Do
Do not rename encrypted files or test random decryptors — this can permanently damage them. Avoid communicating with attackers directly, as they may escalate demands or manipulate responses. Rebooting servers mid-encryption can corrupt logs required for recovery.
Keep Calm — Our Expert Team Is Here to Help
Beluga’s LockBit 3.0 Black foundation, harsh negotiation style, and TOX-based anonymity can be overwhelming. Our ransomware recovery specialists — including seasoned forensic analysts and cryptographic engineers — are available 24/7 to assist.
We provide:
- Immediate infection triage
- Free decryptability assessment
- Secure communication channels
- Guided incident recovery workflows
Our mission is to restore your systems safely and efficiently while minimizing operational disruption.
Beluga Ransom Note Overview
Beluga’s ransom note closely mirrors the structure used in LockBit Black–based attacks. The note asserts complete control over the victim’s environment and warns that modifying encrypted files or engaging external help will render recovery impossible. It reinforces the attackers’ exclusive ability to decrypt files and emphasizes anonymity through TOX-based communication.
The ransom note states:
Gentlemen, your network is under our full control.
All your files are now encrypted and inaccessible.
1. Any modification of encrypted files will make recovery impossible.
2. Only our unique decryption key and software can restore your files.
Brute-force, RAM dumps, third-party recovery tools are useless.
It’s a fundamental mathematical reality. Only we can decrypt your data.
3. Law enforcement, authorities, and “data recovery” companies will NOT help you.
They will only waste your time, take your money, and block you from recovering your files — your business will be lost.
4. Any attempt to restore systems, or refusal to negotiate, may lead to irreversible wipe of all data and your network.
TOX CONTACT – RECOVER YOUR FILES
Contact us (add via TOX ID): ECA7D8C2ECDF498A2F4E375BA17FE6341DE638A7A8DEC4F826061187DF901B277665A2B9A0E3
Download Tox messenger: https://tox.chat/download.html
Your personal DECRYPTION ID: 479C209DBBA786596093263E238C5853
BELUGA Ransomware Team
Beluga Ransomware Statistics & Behavioral Insights
Beluga ransomware’s activity during 2025 reflects a threat actor group operating with the same sophistication and efficiency as other LockBit Black–derived affiliates. Although it uses its own branding, the ransomware demonstrates the same encryption strength, targeting logic, and operational tempo seen across post-Leak LockBit ecosystems.
Across publicly observed and privately reported incidents, several measurable patterns have emerged. Beluga appears to favor medium to large organizations that rely heavily on interconnected systems and data-driven operations, making them highly susceptible to encryption-based disruption.
Beluga Ransomware — Victim Growth Timeline (2025)
Beluga Ransomware — Average Data Exfiltrated Per Incident (GB)
Beluga Ransomware — Initial Access Vector Distribution
Beluga Ransomware — Industry Targeting Breakdown
Conclusion
Beluga ransomware exists within the growing family of LockBit 3.0 Black derivatives, a powerful class of malware enabled by the public leak of LockBit’s builder. Although the Beluga group applies distinct branding and communication, its encryption efficiency, randomized extension behavior, intimidation tactics, and TOX-based negotiation mirror well-established playbooks used by professional ransomware operators.
A successful recovery depends heavily on a structured response strategy. Organizations must isolate affected systems, preserve forensic evidence, avoid unsafe decryption attempts, and rely on trained professionals to evaluate decryptability. With the right approach—including secure backups, strong authentication policies, and modern endpoint protection—Beluga’s potential impact can be drastically reduced.
Long-term resilience against ransomware requires continuous monitoring, patch discipline, multi-factor authentication, and segmentation strategies that limit lateral movement. Regardless of the specific variant, organizations that embrace these foundational practices are far better prepared to withstand and recover from attacks like Beluga.
MedusaLocker Ransomware Versions We Decrypt