Ransomware Research
James Ransomware
James is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2019, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- James
- First Seen
- January 1, 2019
How James Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Ransom note openme.exe is ransomware sample 4 files in the c:\Windows\JAMES - >Encrypted_Files.txt;EncryptedKey;james_flag;KeyHash
File Encryption Patterns
James modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..JAMESRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, James displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
openme.exeNote locations:
DesktopTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with James ransomware:
ransom_poc
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About This Analysis
This James 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 James.
Last updated: July 30, 2025