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Weaxor ransomware deployment after React2Shell access

Malware Activity
First reported
Last updated
Happening score
H score 52
1 unique sources, 1 articles

Summary

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Weaxor ransomware was deployed after a React2Shell foothold, encrypting a compromised endpoint and increasing the risk of operational disruption and recovery delays. The malware marked files with the .WEAX extension and dropped RECOVERY INFORMATION.txt ransom notes. The activity also included Windows Defender tampering, Cobalt Strike use, and event-log clearing in a December 5 attack.

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Malware Activity
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Timeline

  1. 17.12.2025 18:09 1 articles · 5mo ago

    React2Shell initial access and Cobalt Strike setup on corporate networks

    Exploitation Observed

    A ransomware gang exploited CVE-2025-55182 against React/Next.js-based systems to gain initial access to corporate networks, then executed obfuscated PowerShell to deploy a Cobalt Strike beacon for C2 communication and disabled Windows Defender real-time protection.

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  2. 17.12.2025 18:09 1 articles · 5mo ago

    Weaxor encrypts files and erases recovery artifacts on the affected endpoint

    Victim Impact Update

    Shortly after initial access on the affected endpoint, Weaxor ransomware encrypted files with the '.WEAX' extension, dropped 'RECOVERY INFORMATION.txt' ransom notes in impacted directories, wiped volume shadow copies, and cleared event logs to hinder recovery and forensic analysis.

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  3. 17.12.2025 18:09 2 articles · 5mo ago

    S-RM reports December 5 React2Shell ransomware activity

    Technical Analysis Update

    S-RM reported that React2Shell was used in an attack on December 5 against a React/Next.js-based target that deployed the Weaxor ransomware strain, and advised defenders to inspect Windows event logs and EDR telemetry for process creation from Node- or React-related binaries.

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