Unmasking the .54lg9 File Extension: Mimic/Pay2Key Threat Explained
▼ Summary
– A server undergoing migration had backups done incorrectly for several months, leading to a ransomware infection.
– The ransomware encrypted files with the .54lg9 extension and also affected shared resources the server had access to.
– Bitdefender Endpoint Security was installed on all workstations except one, which is where the infection entered.
– The ransomware could not be identified by a website, but an SHA1 hash (58f0f28ebddecbde58c8d6fce016d35db23870d8) was provided for analysis.
– The user suspects it might be Pay2Key due to a link pointing to an Iranian group but has found no information or tools for this variant.
A server migration gone wrong can expose critical vulnerabilities, especially when proper backup protocols are neglected. In this case, a single unprotected workstation became the entry point for a sophisticated ransomware attack, leading to widespread file encryption across the network. The malicious software appended the unusual .54lg9 extension to all affected files, rendering them inaccessible and crippling business operations.
Despite having Bitdefender Endpoint Security active on most machines, the absence of protection on just one device allowed the infection to spread. The attacker not only encrypted local files but also targeted shared network resources, amplifying the damage. Initial attempts to identify the ransomware using online tools proved unsuccessful, though an SHA1 hash, 58f0f28ebddecbde58c8d6fce016d35db23870d8, was provided for further analysis.
Suspicion points toward the Pay2Key ransomware family, often associated with Iranian threat actors. The attackers left a ransom note titled HowToRestoreFiles.txt, though the victim has firmly decided against paying. This variant appears to be either new or poorly documented, as no decryption tools or detailed information about the .54lg9 extension are currently available.
The situation highlights the importance of consistent cybersecurity measures, including regular backups and uniform endpoint protection. Without a known decryption method, recovery options remain limited. Those encountering similar attacks should isolate infected systems, preserve encrypted files for analysis, and report the incident to cybersecurity authorities. Sharing sample files with trusted security researchers may help in developing a decryption solution in the future.
(Source: NewsAPI Cybersecurity & Enterprise)
