Ransomware Research

Read Ransomware

Read is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on November 1, 2023, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
Read
First Seen
November 1, 2023

How Read Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Full extension -> .[7E40E7FB].[readdecoding@outlook.com].read

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..read

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

file+README-WARNING+.txt

Ransom message:

notes/+README-WARNING+.txt

Note locations:

EveryFolder
screenshot

Ransom message:

notes/C5EB.tmp.bmp

Note locations:

Desktop

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with Read ransomware:

  • read_visual.exe

Elastio Can Help You

Don't let Read ransomware take over your data

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

About This Analysis

This Read 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 Read.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

Read Ransomware - Detectable by Elastio