Ransomware Research

Fake DMA Ransomware

Fake DMA is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2017, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: Fake DMA Locker 3.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Fake DMA
First Seen
May 1, 2017
Known Aliases
Fake DMA Locker 3

Ransom note and payment demands

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

message
notes/note.txt
Location: OnceOnCompletion
filecryptinfo.txt
notes/cryptinfo.txt
Location: ProgramData

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Fake DMA ransomware:

About this analysis

This Fake DMA 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 Fake DMA.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Fake DMA inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Fake DMA 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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