Ransomware Research

Pompous Ransomware

Pompous is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on March 1, 2016, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: SkidLocker.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
Pompous
First Seen
March 1, 2016
Known Aliases
SkidLocker

How Pompous ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.Locked.mp4

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileREAD_IT.txt
notes/READ_IT.txt
Location: Desktop
screenshot
notes/By3yCwd.jpg
Location: Desktop

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with Pompous ransomware:

About this analysis

This Pompous 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 Pompous.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects Pompous inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify Pompous 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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What is Pompous Ransomware? | Elastio