Ransomware Research

ReadText Ransomware

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

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
ReadText
First Seen
September 1, 2023

How ReadText Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..readtext5

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileHow_to_back_files.html

Ransom message:

notes/How_to_back_files.html

Note locations:

EveryFolder

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with ReadText ransomware:

  • readtext5.exe

Elastio Can Help You

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About This Analysis

This ReadText 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 ReadText.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

ReadText Ransomware - Detectable by Elastio