Ransomware Research

LockFile Ransomware

LockFile is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2021, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
LockFile
First Seen
May 1, 2021

How LockFile Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..lockfile

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileLOCKFILE-README-{VICTIM_PC_NAME}-{TIMESTAMP}.hta

Ransom message:

notes/LOCKFILE-README-MRBKYMNO-1629632583.hta

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with LockFile ransomware:

  • autologin.sys
  • kdu.exe
  • Hamakaze.exe
  • sDQ0X.exe
  • driverloadtool.exe
  • aqwl.dll
  • sdq0x.exe
  • knmmp.exe
  • autologin.exe
  • Tanikaze.dll
  • EfsPotato.exe
  • autoupdate.exe

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About This Analysis

This LockFile 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 LockFile.

Last updated: October 30, 2025

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