Ransomware Research
Owl Ransomware
Owl is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on October 1, 2021, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Owl
- First Seen
- October 1, 2021
How Owl Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
NOSAMPLE filename example -> general[AdminOwl@bitmessage.de]ID=231AD750.photo.png.(OwL) info collected from https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/forums/t/760496/owl-ransomware-owl-support-topic/
File Encryption Patterns
Owl modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..(OwL)Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Owl displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
!README!.txtRansom message:
notes/!README!.txt
!README!.htaRansom message:
notes/!README!.hta
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About This Analysis
This Owl 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 Owl.
Last updated: July 30, 2025