Ransomware Research

HelloKitty Ransomware

HelloKitty is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on October 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Kitty.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
HelloKitty
First Seen
October 1, 2020
Known Aliases
Kitty

How HelloKitty Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

HelloKitty modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

File extensions added after encryption:

..crypted..kitty..crypt..v-society..boombye

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

After encrypting files, HelloKitty displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

fileread_me_lkdtt.txt

Ransom message:

notes/read_me_lkdtt.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
fileread_me_lkd.txt

Ransom message:

notes/read_me_lkd.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
fileread_me_unlock.txt

Ransom message:

notes/read_me_unlock.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
file_read_me_bro.txt

Ransom message:

notes/_read_me_bro.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with HelloKitty ransomware:

  • ag.exe
  • ransomware.Exe
  • Trojan.Ransom.HelloKitty.exe
  • ls.exe

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About This Analysis

This HelloKitty 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 HelloKitty.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

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