Ransomware Research

Herbst Ransomware

Herbst is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Herbst
First Seen
May 1, 2016

How Herbst ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.herbst

Ransom note and payment demands

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

message
notes/note-message.txt
Location: OnceOnCompletion

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Herbst ransomware:

About this analysis

This Herbst 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 Herbst.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Herbst inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Herbst 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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