Qilin is the name of a creature in Chinese mythology. However, it wouldn't be the first time a ransomware group has used a moniker that attempts to confuse onlookers about their country of origin.

Age of Mythology: Retold's first big expansion ... These gods come alongside new Myth units like the Qilin, as well as Chinese soldiers including the iconic Chu Ko Nu crossbowmen.

The qilin is also found in Japanese mythology where it is known as the kirin, a yokai that is regarded as highly sacred and powerful due to being associated with purity, goodness, and times of peace.

Microsoft says a North Korean hacking group tracked as Moonstone Sleet has deployed Qilin ransomware payloads in a limited number of recent attacks. "Since late February 2025, Microsoft has ...