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
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
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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: September 30, 2025
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