Ransomware Research

Windows_Security Ransomware

Windows_Security is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on October 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: WS Go.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
Windows_Security
First Seen
October 1, 2016
Known Aliases
WS Go

How Windows_Security Ransomware Works

Targeted Files

Encodes filenames with base64 -> samplepptx.pptx -> c2FtcGxlcHB0eC5wcHR4.enc

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..enc

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileInstructions.html

Ransom message:

notes/Instructions.html

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with Windows_Security ransomware:

  • attrib
  • ATTRIB.EXE
  • Windows_Security.exe_
  • Priv.exe
  • 111.exe
  • privescalation_original.exe

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About This Analysis

This Windows_Security 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 Windows_Security.

Last updated: July 30, 2025

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