file#README!.hta
notes/#README!.hta
Location: Desktop, StartUp, RootDiscs
Ransomware Research
KindAd Ransomware
KindAd is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on January 1, 2026, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.
Quick facts
- Ransomware Family
- KindAd
- First Seen
- January 1, 2026
How KindAd ransomware works
File modification behavior
KindAd updates file modification timestamps after encryption.
File encryption patterns
KindAd modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Extensions added after encryption
- .AOCJTC
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, KindAd displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
file#HOW-TO-RESTORE-YOUR-FILES.txt
notes/#HOW-TO-RESTORE-YOUR-FILES.txt
Location: EveryFolder
screenshot
notes/kind_ad.png
Location: Desktop
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with KindAd ransomware:
- systemki.exe
- ne9mlc2k.exe
- systemki.vexe
- 64.vexe
About this analysis
This KindAd 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 KindAd.
Detection coverage
Elastio detects KindAd inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify KindAd across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a hunt against your recovery points to confirm.