Ransomware Research

WinLock Ransomware

WinLock 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
WinLock
First Seen
May 1, 2026

How WinLock ransomware works

File modification behavior

WinLock updates file modification timestamps after encryption.

File encryption patterns

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

Extensions added after encryption
  • .locked

Ransom note and payment demands

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

message
notes/note.txt

Location: OnceOnCompletion

Technical indicators

Associated executable files

The following executable files are associated with WinLock ransomware:

  • WinLockRansomware.exe
  • 0f609298-36d7-44b3-87ad-56c1d6593659.exe
  • 81d2919a-92ad-4822-9469-1a8369161377.exe
  • iubz9.exe

About this analysis

This WinLock 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 WinLock.

Last updated: August 27, 2026

Detection coverage

Elastio detects WinLock inside your data and backups.

The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify WinLock 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.