Ransomware Research

DarkDev Ransomware

DarkDev is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on October 1, 2024, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
DarkDev
First Seen
October 1, 2024

How DarkDev ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.darkdev

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileHow_to_back_files.hta
notes/How_to_back_files.hta
Location: RootDiscs, Desktop

About this analysis

This DarkDev 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 DarkDev.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects DarkDev inside your data and backups.

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