Ransomware Research
Play Ransomware
Play is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on June 1, 2022, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Play Hand.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Play
- First Seen
- June 1, 2022
- Known Aliases
- Play Hand
How Play Ransomware Works
File Encryption Patterns
Play modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..playRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Play displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
ReadMe.txtRansom message:
notes/ReadMe.txt
Note locations:
RootDiscsTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Play ransomware:
0tPBg0.exe
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About This Analysis
This Play 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 Play.
Last updated: July 30, 2025