Ransomware Research

BlackClaw Ransomware

BlackClaw is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Black Claw.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
BlackClaw
First Seen
May 1, 2020
Known Aliases
Black Claw

How BlackClaw ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.bclaw.apocalypse

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileRECOVER YOUR FILES.hta
notes/RECOVER YOUR FILES.hta
Location: EveryFolder
fileRECOVER YOUR FILES.txt
notes/RECOVER YOUR FILES.txt

About this analysis

This BlackClaw 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 BlackClaw.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects BlackClaw inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify BlackClaw 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.

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What is BlackClaw Ransomware? | Elastio