Ransomware Research
Balaclava Ransomware
Balaclava is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on February 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: DavesSmith, JerryGlanville, KEY0004, Michael, Coryell, PuckettJeffrey.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Balaclava
- First Seen
- February 1, 2020
- Known Aliases
- DavesSmithJerryGlanvilleKEY0004MichaelCoryellPuckettJeffrey
How Balaclava Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
Balaclava modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..jerry_glanville_data@aol.com..KEY0004..michael..coryell..puckett_jeffrey..daves.smith@aol.comRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Balaclava displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
RECOVERY FILE.txtRansom message:
notes/RECOVERY FILE.txt
HOW_TO_RECOVERY_FILES.txtRansom message:
notes/HOW_TO_RECOVERY_FILES.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Balaclava ransomware:
OUT_CLEANED+TSTDEL.EXELock.exe1C620F33063425F3.exepuckett_jeffrey.exeLock.exe
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About This Analysis
This Balaclava 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 Balaclava.
Last updated: October 30, 2025
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