Ransomware Research

Auto Ransomware

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

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Auto
First Seen
February 1, 2023

How Auto ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.auto

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileRESTORE_FILES_INFO.hta
notes/RESTORE_FILES_INFO.hta
Location: Desktop
fileRESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt
notes/RESTORE_FILES_INFO.txt
Location: RootDiscs, UserFolders

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Auto ransomware:

About this analysis

This Auto ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like Auto.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Auto inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Auto across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.

See How the Hunt Engine WorksRequest a Demo

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What is Auto Ransomware? | Elastio