SYMBOLCOMMON_NAMEaka. SYNONYMS
elf.qilin (Back to overview)

Qilin


Qilin ransomware, initially observed in July 2022 under the name “Agenda,” operates on a Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS) model. This model allows core developers to provide their malicious software and infrastructure to affiliates in exchange for a percentage of the profits generated from attacks. The name “Qilin” references a Chinese mythological creature symbolizing power and prosperity, a fitting metaphor for the group’s perceived influence and financial objectives. Despite the Chinese name, the group is linked to Russian-speaking cybercriminals, often recruiting affiliates on Russian-language forums and notably excluding Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) countries from its targets.

References
2025-08-18Medium RaghavtiResearchBeGoodToAll
Qilin Ransomware-as-a-Service: Threat Analysis and Strategic Outlook
Qilin AgendaCrypt
2025-06-27TEHTRISLefebvre Fabien
Rage Against the Powershell - Qilin in the Name
Qilin
2025-03-06Twitter (@MsftSecIntel)Microsoft Threat Intelligence
Tweet about Moonstone Sleet dropping Qilin ransomware
Qilin
2023-12-03Bleeping ComputerLawrence Abrams
Linux version of Qilin ransomware focuses on VMware ESXi
Qilin
2023-11-13Twitter (@malwrhunterteam)MalwareHunterTeam
Tweet on Qilin Linux Locker
Qilin

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