Ransomware Research

LightningCrypt Ransomware

LightningCrypt 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
LightningCrypt
First Seen
May 1, 2017

How LightningCrypt Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Requires C&C (can be launched with FakeNetNG) LightningCrypt_UniqeID.txt on the Desktop

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..LIGHTNING

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileLightningCrypt_Recover_Instructions.txt

Ransom message:

notes/LightningCrypt_Recover_Instructions.txt

Note locations:

Desktop
screenshot

Ransom message:

notes/LightningCrypt_Recover_Instructions.png

Note locations:

Desktop
message

Ransom message:

notes/note.txt

Note locations:

OnceOnCompletion

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with LightningCrypt ransomware:

  • ChkDsk.exe
  • chkdsk.exe
  • Chkdsk.exe

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About This Analysis

This LightningCrypt 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 LightningCrypt.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

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