Ransomware Research
VxLock Ransomware
VxLock 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. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: vxLock, vxCrypter.
Quick Facts
- Ransomware Family
- VxLock
- First Seen
- January 1, 2017
- Known Aliases
- vxLockvxCrypter
How VxLock Ransomware Works
Targeted Files
https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/vxcrypter-is-the-first-ransomware-to-delete-duplicate-files/ Contains a lot of checks of valid encryption (checksums)
File Encryption Patterns
VxLock modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
File extensions added after encryption:
..vxLock..xLckRansom Note and Payment Demands
After encrypting files, VxLock displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
Ransom message:
notes/note.txt
Note locations:
OnceOnCompletionTechnical Indicators
Associated Executable Files
The following executable files are associated with VxLock ransomware:
vxLock.exeSH6MCFQJuX
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About This Analysis
This VxLock 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 VxLock.
Last updated: July 30, 2025