Ransomware Research

Eq Ransomware

Eq is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on December 1, 2018, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Eq
First Seen
December 1, 2018

How Eq ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.fuck

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileREADME_BACK_FILES.htm
notes/README_BACK_FILES.htm
Location: EveryFolder

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Eq ransomware:

About this analysis

This Eq 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 Eq.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Eq inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Eq 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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