Ransom.Maze

Short bio

Ransom.Maze is Malwarebytes’ detection name for a family of ransomware that not only encrypts a victims files, but also threatens to publish them.

Symptoms

Users of affected systems may see this notification on their desktop:

and find a file called DECRYPT-FILES.html in every folder that contains encrypted files.

Type and source of infection

Ransom.Maze is ransomware. Ransomware in general makes files on the victims system unusable until the ransom is payed. Ransom.Maze not only encrypts a victims files, but also threatens to publish them.
Ransom.Maze is spread by exploit kits, for example Spelevo EK, and malspam campaigns.

Aftermath

Since this ransomware deletes shadow copies and the decryption does not always work this infection can lead to a complete loss of files if you are not using adequate backups or a roll-back system.

The operators behind this ransomware also use the tactic to publish exfiltrated data of victims that are unwilling to pay, so confidential data could get publ;ished.

Protection

Malwarebytes protects business and home users from Ransom.Maze by using Anti-Ransomware technology and real-time protection.

Remediation

Malwarebytes can detect and remove Ransom.Maze without further user interaction.

Please download Malwarebytes to your desktop.
Double-click MBSetup.exe and follow the prompts to install the program.
When your Malwarebytes for Windows installation completes, the program opens to the Welcome to Malwarebytes screen.
Click on the Get started button.
Click Scan to start a Threat Scan.
Click Quarantine to remove the found threats.
Reboot the system if prompted to complete the removal process.

Take note, however, that removing this ransomware does not decrypt your files. You can only get your files back from backups you made before the infection happened.