Ransomware Research
Avest Ransomware
Avest is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on August 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Pack14.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Avest
- First Seen
- August 1, 2019
- Known Aliases
- Pack14
How Avest Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Full extension of encrypted files -> .ckey(<random_ID>).email(data1992@protonmail.com).pack14
File Encryption Patterns
Avest modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..pack14Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Avest displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
!!!Readme!!!Help!!!.txtRansom message:
notes/!!!Readme!!!Help!!!.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Avest ransomware:
installer.exemyfile.exeГрафик проверок октябрь-декабрь 2019 (встроен Avest).avst.exeantimalware.exeoffice64.exe
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About This Analysis
This Avest ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like Avest.
Last updated: July 30, 2025