Ransomware Research

aZaZeL Ransomware

aZaZeL is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on June 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
aZaZeL
First Seen
June 1, 2017

How aZaZeL ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.Encrypted

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileFile_Encryption_Notice.txt
notes/File_Encryption_Notice.txt

About this analysis

This aZaZeL 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 aZaZeL.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects aZaZeL inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify aZaZeL 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 aZaZeL Ransomware? | Elastio