Ransomware Research

ChangeMe Ransomware

ChangeMe 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: SomeExample, AnotherExample, ShittyExample, An example with spaces in it, An example with !!! ### ::: weird characters.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
ChangeMe
First Seen
October 1, 2016
Known Aliases
SomeExampleAnotherExampleShittyExampleAn example with spaces in itAn example with !!! ### ::: weird characters

How ChangeMe ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.foo
Prefixes added to encrypted files
foo-

About this analysis

This ChangeMe 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 ChangeMe.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects ChangeMe inside your data and backups.

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