Ransomware Research

CryptoDefense Ransomware

CryptoDefense is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on March 1, 2014, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
CryptoDefense
First Seen
March 1, 2014

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileHOW_DECRYPT.TXT
notes/HOW_DECRYPT.TXT
fileHOW_DECRYPT.HTML
fileHOW_DECRYPT.URL

Recovery and decryption tools

Decryption tools may be available for CryptoDefense. Review the resources below:

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About this analysis

This CryptoDefense 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 CryptoDefense.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects CryptoDefense inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify CryptoDefense 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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