Ransomware Research
Unikey Ransomware
Unikey is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on July 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- Unikey
- First Seen
- July 1, 2017
How Unikey Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
Ecnrypts only test folder on the Desktop Requires C&C to send encryption key
File Encryption Patterns
Unikey modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..locked
Ransom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, Unikey displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
READ_IT.txt
Ransom message:
notes/READ_IT.txt
Note locations:
Desktop
Technical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with Unikey ransomware:
Unikey-Ransomware.exe
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About This Analysis
This Unikey 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 Unikey.
Last updated: July 30, 2025