Ransomware Research

Matrix-Locked_File Ransomware

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

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Matrix-Locked_File
First Seen
September 1, 2017
Known Aliases
ex Locked_File

How Matrix-Locked_File ransomware works

File encryption patterns

Matrix-Locked_File modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:

Extensions added after encryption
.locked_file

Ransom note and payment demands

After encrypting files, Matrix-Locked_File displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:

file!HOW_TO_UNLOCK_FILES!.html
notes/!HOW_TO_UNLOCK_FILES!.html
Location: EveryFolder

About this analysis

This Matrix-Locked_File 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 Matrix-Locked_File.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Matrix-Locked_File inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Matrix-Locked_File 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.

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