Ransomware Research
Kraken Ransomware
Kraken is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on April 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Kraken
- First Seen
- April 1, 2018
How Kraken Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
Kraken modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..krakenRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Kraken displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
_HELP_YOUR_FILES.htmlRansom message:
notes/_HELP_YOUR_FILES.html.txt
Technical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Kraken ransomware:
Kraken 2.0.exeCatchem.exe
Elastio Can Help You
Don't let Kraken ransomware take over your data
Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions to keep your organization safe.
About This Analysis
This Kraken 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 Kraken.
Last updated: July 30, 2025