Ransomware Research
ExoLock Ransomware
ExoLock is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- ExoLock
- First Seen
- November 1, 2017
How ExoLock Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
ExoLock modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..exolocked..exoRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, ExoLock displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
/^UnlockYourFiles[0-9]{1,2}\.txt$/Ransom message:
notes/UnlockYourFiles8.txt
Note locations:
DesktopRansom message:
notes/note.txt
Note locations:
OnceOnCompletionTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with ExoLock ransomware:
executable.exeExoBuilder.exe
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About This Analysis
This ExoLock 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 ExoLock.
Last updated: July 30, 2025