Ransomware Research

ProLock Ransomware

ProLock 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.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
ProLock
First Seen
March 1, 2020

How ProLock ransomware works

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
.ProLock.pr0Lock.proL0ck

Ransom note and payment demands

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

file[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].TXT
notes/[HOW TO RECOVER FILES].TXT
Location: EveryFolder

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with ProLock ransomware:

About this analysis

This ProLock 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 ProLock.

Last updated: December 30, 2025

Detection coverage

Elastio detects ProLock inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify ProLock 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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