Ransomware Research
Protected Ransomware
Protected is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Protected
- First Seen
- November 1, 2016
How Protected Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Protected with Confuser Requires C&C
File Encryption Patterns
Protected modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..protectedRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Protected displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
HOW_TO_RESTORE_YOUR_DATA.htmlRansom message:
notes/HOW_TO_RESTORE_YOUR_DATA.html
Note locations:
EveryFolderTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Protected ransomware:
TraxxioSetup.exeloadit.exe
Elastio Can Help You
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About This Analysis
This Protected 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 Protected.
Last updated: July 30, 2025