Ransomware Research

PyL33T Ransomware

PyL33T is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
PyL33T
First Seen
January 1, 2017

How PyL33T Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Written in Python Requires C&C to receive RSA key

File Encryption Patterns

PyL33T modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

File extensions added after encryption:

..d4nk

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

After encrypting files, PyL33T displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

message

Ransom message:

notes/note.txt

Note locations:

OnceOnCompletion

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with PyL33T ransomware:

  • Zipped File Archive
  • Zipped.zip
  • Ransomware.exe
  • Runtime Broker
  • BadRansomware.exe
  • Runtime Broker.exe

Elastio Can Help You

Don't let PyL33T ransomware take over your data

Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions to keep your organization safe.

About This Analysis

This PyL33T 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 PyL33T.

Last updated: July 30, 2025