A ransomware using the .raid10, .blt, .globe, .encrypted, .mia.kokers@aol.com file extensions and believed to be a variant of JigSaw crypto viruses has been reported to cause new infections in a second, updated version. The updated version of globe uses the not so often met Blowfish encryption to encipher the files of computers that have been infected with it, adding the abovementioned file extensions to them. The virus was first detected in October 2016 and shortly after being spotted EmsiSoft researchers successfully managed to create a free decrypter for it. This is why we strongly advise users not to pay any ransom to cyber-criminals and follow the instructions in this article to remove Globe2 ransomware and decrypt the enciphered files free of charge.
Threat Summary
Name | Globe2 |
Type | Ransomware |
Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files with the Blowfish algorithm and asks a ransom payoff for decryption. |
Symptoms | Files are encrypted with the extensions .raid10, .blt, .globe, .encrypted, .mia.kokers@aol.com and become inaccessible. A ransom note with instructions for paying the ransom shows as a YOU CAN LOSE YOUR DATA file. |
Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
Globe2 Ransomware – Technical Background
Being reported as a variant of the JigSaw ransomware and also known as Purge the first variant of the globe virus was decrypted very fast. However, this new version may have nothing in common with the first one. This is primarily because it uses the Blowfish encryption to encipher the files of the affected computers. Similar to the 1st version of Globe this virus is also believed to be widespread via unfamiliar phishing e-mails that pretend to be legitimate ones. The e-mails may contain either malicious web links or attachments that resemble legitimate Microsoft Office or Adobe Reader files. Once opened, the user may be infected with the help of an exploit kit.
After already been infected by Globe2, the virus may create one or more malicious files in the following Windows locations:
- %AppData%
- %Roaming%
- %SystemDrive%
- %User’s Profile%
The files may contain different names. The names may be completely random but they may also resemble a legitimate Windows process, such as svchost, notepad or others.
After having infected the computer, Globe2 may begin the encryption process. The virus may target important files that are opened regularly, such as photos, audio files, Microsoft Office documents, .pdf files as well as others.
The encrypted files may have one of the file extensions mentioned in the table above and they might look like the following.
After having enciphered the files on the computer it has infected, Globe2 adds a file that is named “YOU CAN LOSEYOUR DATA”.
The file leads to a screen with a custom decryption key and the following brief message:
All server data is encrypted.
To recover your data you need to pay for decryptor.
Contacts
Telegram@comodosecurity.com
Email viewclear@yandex.com”
Thankfully, users do not have to follow any of those instructions because a decryptor has now been released for this ransomware variant as well. We have prepared the instructions below to help you firstly remove Globe2 ransomware from your computer after which decipher your files for free.
Globe2 Ransomware Removal Instructions
In order to remove this virus firstly, you can try either the Manual instructions or the Automatic ones in case you are not tech savvy. Be sure to know that reverse engineers and security experts always recommend scanning your computer with an advanced anti-malware software for maximum effectiveness during removal.
- Step 1
- Step 2
- Step 3
- Step 4
- Step 5
Step 1: Scan for Globe2 with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Globe2 and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Globe2 on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Globe2 there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Globe2
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Globe2.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Globe2 aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Globe2-FAQ
What is Globe2 Ransomware?
Globe2 is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Globe2 Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Globe2 Infect?
Via several ways.Globe2 Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Globe2 is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Globe2 files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Globe2 files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Globe2 files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Globe2" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Globe2 files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Globe2 Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Globe2 ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Globe2 files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Globe2 Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Globe2 Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Globe2 how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Globe2 ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.