Ransomware Research
KillSwitch Ransomware
KillSwitch is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- KillSwitch
- First Seen
- May 1, 2017
How KillSwitch Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Current sample encrypts only test folder in the Documents
File Encryption Patterns
KillSwitch modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..switchRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, KillSwitch displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
KILLSWITCH_README.txtRansom message:
notes/KILLSWITCH_README.txt
Technical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with KillSwitch ransomware:
CryptoKill.exe
Elastio Can Help You
Don't let KillSwitch ransomware take over your data
Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions to keep your organization safe.
About This Analysis
This KillSwitch 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 KillSwitch.
Last updated: July 30, 2025