Ransomware Research

PowerLocky Ransomware

PowerLocky is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on July 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
PowerLocky
First Seen
July 1, 2016

How PowerLocky Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..locky

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

file_HELP_instructions.html

Ransom message:

notes/_HELP_instructions.html

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with PowerLocky ransomware:

  • RY.exe
  • RY.EXE
  • Ransom PowerwareRY(1).exe
  • Ransom PowerwareRY.exe

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About This Analysis

This PowerLocky 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 PowerLocky.

Last updated: October 30, 2025

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