Lucky ransomware is a variant of the MedusaLocker Ransomware family that has emerged as a notable concern, particularly given its activity since 2019 and its focus on critical sectors like healthcare. This report provides an extensive summary and recommendations of what you can do if you’ve fallen victim to this ransomware.
Lucky Ransomware Overview
Lucky Ransomware is a variant of the MedusaLocker Ransomware family. This strain has been active since at least September 2019. This family is known for its Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model, where developers share the malware with other threat actors for a share of the ransom payments. The Lucky variant specifically appends the .lucky777 extension to encrypted files, rendering them inaccessible. This extension is a key identifier, distinguishing it from other MedusaLocker variants that might use extensions.
MedusaLocker, including its Lucky variant, primarily targets the healthcare sector. It exploits vulnerabilities to disrupt operations, especially during critical times like the COVID-19 pandemic. However, its reach extends to other industries, indicating a global impact.
The use of AES and RSA-2048 encryption algorithms is a hallmark of this ransomware. AES provides symmetric encryption for speed, while RSA-2048 offers asymmetric encryption for secure key exchange, making decryption without the key nearly impossible.
Ransom Note Overview
Upon successful encryption, Lucky ransomware drops a ransom note in the form of an HTML file named READ_NOTE.html, typically found on the desktop. This note serves as the communication channel between the victim and the attackers, demanding payment in Bitcoin for the decryption key.
The content includes a personal ID for the victim and contact emails, such as [email protected] and [email protected]. Victims are urged to create a new email on protonmail.com for communication.
The note warns against modifying or renaming encrypted files, as this could corrupt them permanently. It also advises against using third-party decryption tools, which might exacerbate the situation. Crooks also offers to decrypt 2-3 non-important files for free as proof of their ability to restore data, a common tactic to build trust. Additionally, it threatens data leakage or sale if the ransom is not paid, adding pressure with a 72-hour deadline before the price increases, intensifying the urgency for victims.
How Does It Work?
Lucky follows patterns observed in the broader MedusaLocker family. Research suggests it spreads through exploiting vulnerabilities in Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP), a protocol for remote access to Windows systems, often via brute-force attacks on weak passwords. Alternatively, it may infiltrate via malicious email attachments, such as phishing emails with infected files. These emails leverage social engineering to trick users into executing the malware.
Once inside, the malware employs AES and RSA-2048 encryption. AES, or Advanced Encryption Standard, is a symmetric algorithm that encrypts data quickly. Meanwhile, RSA-2048, an asymmetric algorithm, secures the AES key, making brute-force decryption impractical due to its 2048-bit key length. This dual approach ensures files are locked securely, with the .lucky777 extension appended to each, like changing “document.txt” to “document.txt.lucky777.”
MedusaLocker variants, including Lucky, are designed to avoid encrypting executable files (e.g., .exe, .dll) to keep the system functional for ransom payment. They may also use techniques like restarting in Safe Mode to evade security software. It scans networks for additional hosts, using tools like PsExec to spread.
Additionally, it disables backups by deleting shadow copies, ensuring victims cannot easily recover their files without paying the ransom. Recent activity, as of early 2025, shows continued attacks, with a focus on South American countries since mid-2023, doubling victim numbers monthly, indicating an evolving threat landscape.
How to Remove Lucky Ransomware Virus?
Removing Lucky virus requires careful steps to ensure the malware is eradicated without further damage. The first action is to clean the system, as any subsequent files could be blocked by the ransomware. To do this, reboot the computer in Safe Mode with Networking, which loads minimal drivers and services. This reduces malware interference and increases the chances of successful removal. Follow our guide to switch your computer and get ready for further steps.
Once in safe mode, download and run GridinSoft Anti-Malware by clicking the banner below. This tool is designed to detect and remove various malware types, including ransomware. Ensure the software is updated to recognize the latest threats. Perform a Full scan to identify and eliminate the infection.
How to Recover Encrypted Files?
Recovering files encrypted by Lucky ransomware is a complex process. As for now, the evidence leans toward no public decrypter being available. The encryption, using AES and RSA-2048, is robust, and without the attackers’ decryption key, recovery is challenging. Research indicates that paying the ransom is not advised, as there’s no guarantee of receiving the decryption key. Additionally, it supports criminal activity, potentially encouraging further attacks on other victims.
The best strategy is to restore files from a backup, ideally stored in multiple locations, such as remote servers or unplugged storage devices. This ensures safety from infection and prevents data loss. If no backup exists, professional data recovery services, such as those specializing in ransomware, may offer solutions, though success is not guaranteed. The No More Ransom Project (No More Ransom) can be checked for any updates on decryption tools, but currently, none are available for MedusaLocker.
