Ransomware Research
BlackCat Ransomware
BlackCat is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2021, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: ALPHV, ALPHV-ng, Noberus.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- BlackCat
- First Seen
- November 1, 2021
- Known Aliases
- ALPHVALPHV-ngNoberus
How BlackCat Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
https://bazaar.abuse.ch/browse/tag/blackcat 3d7cf20ca6476e14e0a026f9bdd8ff1f26995cdc5854c3adb41a6135ef11ba83 -> --access-token 1234567
File Encryption Patterns
BlackCat modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
./\.[a-z]{7}/Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, BlackCat displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
/RECOVER-[a-z]{7}-FILES\.txt/Ransom message:
notes/RECOVER-sykffle-FILES.txt
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with BlackCat ransomware:
alpha.exe
Elastio Can Help You
Don't let BlackCat ransomware take over your data
Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions to keep your organization safe.
About This Analysis
This BlackCat 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 BlackCat.
Last updated: July 30, 2025