Weax Ransomware Decryptor
Our security research team has built a specialized decryptor and incident-response framework for ransomware campaigns that attach .weax extensions to files, including variants where the filename ends with markers like help[[yan]].weax. This decryptor is engineered to:
- Analyze encrypted samples securely in a sandboxed environment,
- Identify the ransomware variant and any victim-specific IDs embedded within it, and
- Attempt precise key recovery or targeted decryption while generating a detailed integrity log and audit report.
The decryptor supports both cloud-assisted and fully offline (air-gapped) modes, giving organizations flexibility depending on their sensitivity requirements. Each run begins in read-only mode to ensure that no changes are made until verification is complete.
How the Decryptor Works — Overview
When 2–5 encrypted sample files are uploaded, they are examined in an isolated analysis environment to determine their structure, encryption headers, and any note-based victim identifiers. Using these fingerprints, our decryptor cross-references known key-derivation patterns observed in prior .weax and Weaxor/Mallox rebrands.
If the encryption scheme or session ID can be mapped successfully, we perform a proof-of-concept (PoC) decryption on a small sample file. Once confirmed, the decryptor moves to full-scale data recovery, logging every action for transparency, auditing, and insurance verification.
Requirements: You must have the original ransom note (if available), 2–5 encrypted files (copies only), administrator access on a secure host, and an encrypted channel for transferring samples if you opt for cloud-based analysis.
Immediate Response Plan After Detecting .weax Files
When you discover files ending in .weax, speed and precision are crucial to prevent additional encryption or data loss.
First, disconnect the compromised devices from all networks, shared drives, and backup systems to contain the spread.
Second, preserve the affected data exactly as found — do not modify, rename, or open any encrypted files or ransom notes.
If possible, capture a memory (RAM) dump before rebooting the system; memory snapshots can contain decryption keys or other volatile evidence.
Next, gather initial telemetry such as antivirus alerts, Windows event logs, firewall data, and timestamps from when the infection was detected.
Finally, reach out to your incident response or forensic partner. Avoid contacting the attackers directly. Security forums have recorded .weax discussions among victims, and maintaining those records can assist with correlation and evidence.
Recovering Files Encrypted by .weax Ransomware
Free Recovery Paths
Restoring from isolated backups:
Offline or immutable backups remain the most reliable way to recover encrypted data. Before restoring, confirm the backup’s integrity using checksum validation or by mounting the copy in a controlled sandbox — ransomware variants often attempt to encrypt reachable backup drives.
Using VM snapshots:
If your environment maintains hypervisor snapshots (for example, VMware or Hyper-V), roll back to a version captured before the infection. Always verify that attackers did not tamper with snapshot data or configuration files.
Paid or Specialized Options
Professional decryptor assistance:
For organizations without viable backups, our analyst-led decryptor service provides a verifiable PoC decryption before any full restoration begins. This ensures transparency and proof of success before committing resources.
Negotiating with attackers (not recommended):
Paying ransoms is extremely risky. Funds go directly to criminal networks, and there’s no guarantee the decryption key will be supplied or that exfiltrated data won’t be leaked. Reports on Mallox/Weaxor operations confirm that even when test decryptions are offered, double extortion tactics remain common. Proceed only under the advice of legal and insurance professionals if all other routes have failed.
Our .weax Decryptor — Technical Breakdown
Reverse Engineering & Variant Analysis
Each sample is reverse-engineered to identify weak cryptographic implementations or repeated key usage. Our analysts have found that many .weax variants are descendants of Mallox/TargetCompany ransomware, and recognizing that lineage accelerates variant mapping and recovery.
Cloud-Based vs Offline Modes
- Cloud Mode: Provides rapid identification and key mapping within our secure sandbox, which maintains blockchain-verified logs for transparency.
- Offline Mode: Ideal for high-security organizations. We can supply signed analysis kits or encrypted drives for sample submission, allowing decryption without any internet transfer.
How to Use Our .weax Decryptor — Step-by-Step (Do Not Skip Steps)
1. Assess the Infection
Check whether your files have the .weax extension or variations such as help[[yan]].weax. Search affected folders for ransom notes — typically named RECOVERY INFO.txt, UnlockFiles.txt, or similar. Record every line of the note and any attacker identifiers exactly as they appear.
2. Secure the Environment
Immediately isolate the compromised systems by disconnecting network cables, disabling Wi-Fi, and detaching backup volumes. Prevent any further encryption or lateral spread.
3. Preserve Forensic Evidence
Before rebooting, attempt to capture a RAM dump if you have the tools — volatile memory often stores valuable encryption traces. If unavailable, create disk images or, at minimum, copy ransom notes and 2–5 encrypted samples to write-protected storage. Compute SHA-256 hashes for integrity.
4. Contact Our Recovery Team
Reach out only through our official, secure channel — never via attacker emails. Share the ransom note (if found), your encrypted sample files, and the infection timeline. Mention whether you captured RAM or backups. Our team will provide secure upload instructions.
5. Submit Samples and Hashes
Use our dedicated HTTPS or SFTP upload portal, or for offline workflows, send encrypted media through approved couriers. Include all file hashes and any network logs from your security tools.
6. Proof-of-Concept (PoC) Phase
We will analyze your case, attempt a PoC decryption on one or two small samples, and return those decrypted files along with an audit report. This lets you verify authenticity and confirm the decryptor’s effectiveness.
7. Authorize Full Recovery
Once PoC results are confirmed, you’ll sign an engagement document outlining scope, cost, confidentiality, and timeframes. We’ll also coordinate decryption schedules to minimize operational impact.
8. Controlled Decryption Execution
Decryption runs in two stages: read-only verification followed by file restoration to a separate directory. Analysts monitor the process and maintain continuous logging.
9. Validate the Restored Files
After decryption, test several business-critical files in a safe, isolated environment. Confirm checksum matches and record validation results for insurance or compliance purposes.
10. Final Cleanup and Hardening
Remove all ransomware remnants and associated malware tools, rotate system and domain credentials, and apply critical patches. Configure your backup solutions for immutability and offline storage to prevent reinfection.
Understanding This Ransomware — Names, Extensions & Note Details
Observed Pattern:
Files encrypted by this ransomware often end in .weax or close variants like .weax2 and .weaxx. Some affected victims have reported filenames with additional markers, such as help[[yan]].weax, which likely act as affiliate or victim tags.
Probable Origin:
Researchers trace .weax ransomware back to rebranded Mallox/TargetCompany variants, sometimes referred to as Weaxor or Weax. These variants surfaced in late 2024 and throughout 2025, frequently combining file encryption, data theft, and shadow-copy deletion to pressure victims.
Ransom Note Characteristics:
Most victims discover text files left in encrypted directories (e.g., RECOVERY INFO.txt or UnlockFiles.txt). The message typically contains contact instructions via email or Tor, lists a victim ID, and offers to decrypt a few files for free as “proof.” The notes often warn against using third-party decryptors — you should ignore such directions and rely on professionals.
IOCs, TTPs & Observed Tools
Key Indicators of Compromise (IOCs)
- Encrypted file extension: .weax (variants include .weax2 and .weaxx).
- Example file: document.docx.help[[yan]].weax (community reports show similar patterns).
- Ransom-note filenames: RECOVERY INFO.txt, UnlockFiles.txt, or comparable text files.
- Vendor writeups: Multiple threat analyses identify .weax under Weaxor/Mallox families.
Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)
- Initial Access: Primarily through phishing attachments, fake installers, or exploited remote access services.
- Execution & Impact: Encrypts user files, adds the .weax suffix, deletes shadow copies, and can exfiltrate data for extortion.
- Extortion Methods: Attackers embed contact info and a victim ID; failure to respond can lead to public leaks on data sites.
Tools and Components
- Main payload: Windows executable often disguised within compressed archives.
- Communication: Attackers rely on anonymous email systems or Tor-based sites.
- Auxiliary scripts: Many cases include tools for system cleanup, shadow-copy removal, and log deletion.
Victim Landscape — Global Distribution, Sectors & Timeline
Countries Impacted:
Industries Targeted:
Timeline:
Conclusion
Ransomware that applies .weax or similar suffixes is a high-impact, evolving threat. These campaigns leverage encryption and double-extortion to maximize damage. The best path forward is containment, evidence preservation, and expert decryption.
Avoid any direct communication or ransom payments unless legally advised and validated by your insurer. Engage only with verified recovery providers that demonstrate proof-of-concept decryption before committing to a full restoration plan.
MedusaLocker Ransomware Versions We Decrypt