Ransomware Research

PClock Ransomware

PClock is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: PClock2.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
PClock
First Seen
May 1, 2016
Known Aliases
PClock2

Ransom note and payment demands

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

message
notes/note.txt

About this analysis

This PClock ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like PClock.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects PClock inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify PClock across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.

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What is PClock Ransomware? | Elastio