N2019cov Ransomware
N2019cov is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on March 1, 2020, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: n2019cov, CORONAVIRUS, COVIDPASTO, P4WN3D.
Quick facts
How N2019cov ransomware works
File encryption patterns
N2019cov modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, N2019cov displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/tmp.txt
notes/1nF0rM@t1On.txt
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with N2019cov ransomware:
- ctfmon.exe
- winexec.exe
- avp.scr
About this analysis
This N2019cov 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 N2019cov.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects N2019cov inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify N2019cov 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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