Ransomware Research

HardBit Ransomware

HardBit is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on February 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
HardBit
First Seen
February 1, 2020

How HardBit ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.hardbit

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileHelp_me_for_Decrypt.hta
notes/Help_me_for_Decrypt.hta
Location: EveryFolder
fileHow To Restore Your Files.txt
notes/How To Restore Your Files.txt
Location: EveryFolder
screenshot
notes/HARDBIT.jpg
Location: Desktop

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with HardBit ransomware:

About this analysis

This HardBit 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 HardBit.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects HardBit inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify HardBit 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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