Ransomware Research

SHSLocker Ransomware

SHSLocker is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on May 1, 2026, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide.

Quick facts

Ransomware Family
SHSLocker
First Seen
May 1, 2026

How SHSLocker ransomware works

File modification behavior

SHSLocker updates file modification timestamps after encryption.

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
  • .LOCKED

Ransom note and payment demands

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

fileREAD_ME_NOW.txt
notes/READ_ME_NOW.txt

Location: EveryFolder

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with SHSLocker ransomware:

  • securityhealthservice.exe
  • 8plgk.exe
  • ransomtest.exe

About this analysis

This SHSLocker 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 SHSLocker.

Last updated: September 1, 2026

Detection coverage

Elastio detects SHSLocker inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify SHSLocker 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.