GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware / virus (Removal Guide) - updated Jan 2021

GlobeImposter 2.0 virus Removal Guide

What is GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware virus?

GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware is a dangerous old cryptovirus that keeps spreading in 2021

GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomwareGlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware is a new version of the Globe ransomware

GlobeImposter 2.0 is a file-encrypting virus that is an updated version of Globe Imposter. The previous ransomware is a copycat of Globe ransomware. This file-encrypting malware has numerous versions, and the recent one was detected in March 2019. Once installed on the system, GlobeImposter 2.0 virus might bring the cmd.exe file to the system, inject dubious registry keys in the Windows Registry, and starts encrypting all data that is found on the infected computer system.

The most recent variant of this ransomware appends the .{mattpear@protonmail.com}MTP extension to each locked document. It also delivers a ransom message to inform the user about the secret encryption and discuss all matters about the decryption key's price. If you are infected with this dangerous ransomware, you are very likely to receive a message named HOW_OPEN_FILES.hta or how_to_back_files.html.

Name GlobeImposter 2.0
Previous version Globe Imposter
Extension .{mattpear@protonmail.com}MTP is the latest one. The virus can also append extensions such as .rose, .ocean, .pizdec, .Dragon4444 etc.
Ransom note HOW_OPEN_FILES.hta or how_to_back_files.html
Ransom Crooks demand BTC currency
Distribution Unsafe pages, spam messages, and their infected payload
Decryption Some files can be recovered with the original decryptor
Detection possibilities FortectIntego can help you by detecting malicious content in the infected system

It is also known for other very active file extensions added to the encrypted files. One of the most widespread was .Dragon4444 file extension that has encrypted thousands of victim files and left them helplessly reading the note saying

YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED !!!

TO DECRYPT, FOLLOW THE INSTRUCTIONS:

To recover data you need decrypt tool.

To get the decrypt tool you should:

1.In the letter include your personal ID! Send me this ID in your first email to me!
2.We can give you free test for decrypt few files (NOT VALUE) and assign the price for decryption all files!
3.After we send you instruction how to pay for decrypt tool and after payment you will receive a decryption tool!
4.We can decrypt few files in quality the evidence that we have the decoder.

DO NOT TRY TO DO SOMETHING WITH YOUR FILES BY YOURSELF YOU WILL BRAKE YOUR DATA !!! ONLY WE ARE CAN HELP YOU! CONTACT US:

China.helper@aol.com

The appearance of new versions of GlobeImposter 2.0 is related to the fact that malware researchers immediately crack the code of ransomware and create decryption software. Thus, criminals have nothing else left to do, just to try again. The first poor copy of Globe was quickly beaten by the security team from the Emsisoft[1].

Experts found the flaw in the virus’ code and used it to create a decryption software. The second version of the ransomware[2] continues the work of the predecessor. However, crooks created several more updates for Globe Imposter and they have been spreading throughout the Internet sphere nowadays.

Globe Imposter 2.0 virus aims at 34 file types, including documents, text files, pictures, multimedia, etc. Using AES cryptography, it locks targeted files with one of these files extensions:

  • .bad;
  • .BAG;
  • .FIX;
  • .FIXI;
  • .legally;
  • .keepcalm;
  • .pizdec;
  • .virginlock[byd@india.com]SON;
  • .[xalienx@india.com];
  • .725;
  • .ocean;
  • .rose;
  • .GOTHAM;
  • .HAPP;
  • .write_me_[btc2017@india.com];
  • .726;
  • .490;
  • .skunk;
  • .crypted!
  • .Dragon4444

The original version of Globe Imposter 2 present data recovery instructions in HOW_OPEN_FILES.hta file which is dropped on the system as soon as encryption process is over. However, other variants might use different names of a ransom note. For instance, the latest version delivers the how_to_back_files.html file.

GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware virusGlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware is a file locking threat which encrypts data by using strong ciphers

In the ransom note, crooks demand to pay from 1 to 10 Bitcoin and send a screenshot to the alex_pup@list.ru. However, security experts noticed that cybercriminals use numerous other emails to communicate with the victims. Some of them might be:

  • keepcalmpls@india.com;
  • happydaayz@aol.com;
  • strongman@india.com;
  • byd@india.com;
  • xalienx@india.com;
  • 511_made@cyber-wizard.com;
  • btc.me@india.com;
  • parbergout@keemail.me;
  • parbergout@india.com.

The GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware ransom message looks like this:

Your files are encrypted!
Your personal ID
***
All your important data has been encrypted. To recover data you need decryptor.
To get the decryptor you should:
pay for decrypt:
site for buy bitcoin:
Buy 1 BTC on one of these sites
1. https://localbitcoins.com
2. https://www.coinbase.com
3. https://xchange.cc
bitcoin adress for pay:
jlHqcdC83***:
Send 1 BTC for decrypt
After the payment:
Send screenshot of payment to alex_pup@list.ru . In the letter include your personal ID (look at the beginning of this document).
After you will receive a decryptor and instructions
Attention!
• No Payment = No decryption
• You realy get the decryptor after payment
• Do not attempt to remove the program or run the anti-virus tools
• Attempts to self-decrypting files will result in the loss of your data
• Decoders other users are not compatible with your data, because each user's unique encryption key'

However, after GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware attack, we do not recommend rushing to learn everything about buying and transferring demanded Bitcoins[3]. We clearly understand that paying the ransom may seem like the only possibility to get back all your pictures, photos, audio or movie collections, or other important documents. However, there are many cases when developers of the ransomware took the money and left victims without their files.

In order to save money, you should concentrate on the GlobeImposter 2.0 removal instead of data recovery. The previous version was quickly decrypted; hence, the chances are high that the decrypter for the second variant will be created as well. Meanwhile, you can use alternative recovery methods.

The only safe way to remove GlobeImposter 2.0 virus is to employ professional security software. We highly suggest dedicating this task for FortectIntego. If you cannot install or update the security tool, you have to disable this crypto-malware first. The instructions at the end of the article will show you how to do it.

GlobeImposter 2.0 virusGlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware is a ransom-demanding virus which urges for Bitcoin after data encryption

Malicious spam emails are the main ransomware distribution method

The majority of the file-encrypting viruses use the same distribution campaigns, and malicious spam emails stay the number one method. Many computer users still cannot differentiate between safe and infected emails[4]. Indeed, sometimes cyber criminals manage to create perfect copies of official emails.

However, safe emails rarely end up in the spam folder. What is more, fake emails often lack credentials, have lots of grammar or spelling mistakes, and might be sent from a suspicious email address. The affected emails usually have subject lines or attached documents named as “Payment Receipt,” “Invoice,” “Voice Message Attached” or “Scanned Image.” Thus, always double-check the information before opening these files.

Globe Imposter 2.0, as well as other ransomware viruses, might spread via infected websites, malware-laden ads[5] or exploit kits too. Therefore, you should not visit suspicious and potentially dangerous sites, avoid clicking ads that offer great deals and especially software updates or downloads. Lastly, strengthen your computer’s privacy by installing a reliable antivirus program.[6]

Delete GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware automatically

Just like other file-encrypting viruses, this malicious program has to be removed using reputable security software. For the GlobeImposter 2.0 removal we recommend FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes. These professional tools are capable of identifying and deleting malicious programs effectively. Additionally, they are able to detect all components that might be missed by the human eye.

If you cannot install or run security software, you should reboot the computer to the Safe Mode with Networking. This method helps to disable the virus and perform automatic elimination. We want to point out that trying to delete malicious components manually may lead to irreparable damage to the system. So, you should clean your PC with reputable software only and remove GlobeImposter 2.0 virus without causing any further harm to your machine.

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Compatible with Microsoft Windows Compatible with macOS
What to do if failed?
If you failed to fix virus damage using Fortect Intego, submit a question to our support team and provide as much details as possible.
Fortect Intego has a free limited scanner. Fortect Intego offers more through scan when you purchase its full version. When free scanner detects issues, you can fix them using free manual repairs or you can decide to purchase the full version in order to fix them automatically.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Fortect, try running SpyHunter 5.
Alternative Software
Different software has a different purpose. If you didn’t succeed in fixing corrupted files with Intego, try running Combo Cleaner.

Getting rid of GlobeImposter 2.0 virus. Follow these steps

Manual removal using Safe Mode

If malware prevents from automatic removal, follow the step below:

Important! →
Manual removal guide might be too complicated for regular computer users. It requires advanced IT knowledge to be performed correctly (if vital system files are removed or damaged, it might result in full Windows compromise), and it also might take hours to complete. Therefore, we highly advise using the automatic method provided above instead.

Step 1. Access Safe Mode with Networking

Manual malware removal should be best performed in the Safe Mode environment. 

Windows 7 / Vista / XP
  1. Click Start > Shutdown > Restart > OK.
  2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 button (if that does not work, try F2, F12, Del, etc. – it all depends on your motherboard model) multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
  3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the list. Windows 7/XP
Windows 10 / Windows 8
  1. Right-click on Start button and select Settings.
    Settings
  2. Scroll down to pick Update & Security.
    Update and security
  3. On the left side of the window, pick Recovery.
  4. Now scroll down to find Advanced Startup section.
  5. Click Restart now.
    Reboot
  6. Select Troubleshoot. Choose an option
  7. Go to Advanced options. Advanced options
  8. Select Startup Settings. Startup settings
  9. Press Restart.
  10. Now press 5 or click 5) Enable Safe Mode with Networking. Enable safe mode

Step 2. Shut down suspicious processes

Windows Task Manager is a useful tool that shows all the processes running in the background. If malware is running a process, you need to shut it down:

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Click on More details.
    Open task manager
  3. Scroll down to Background processes section, and look for anything suspicious.
  4. Right-click and select Open file location.
    Open file location
  5. Go back to the process, right-click and pick End Task.
    End task
  6. Delete the contents of the malicious folder.

Step 3. Check program Startup

  1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc on your keyboard to open Windows Task Manager.
  2. Go to Startup tab.
  3. Right-click on the suspicious program and pick Disable.
    Startup

Step 4. Delete virus files

Malware-related files can be found in various places within your computer. Here are instructions that could help you find them:

  1. Type in Disk Cleanup in Windows search and press Enter.
    Disk cleanup
  2. Select the drive you want to clean (C: is your main drive by default and is likely to be the one that has malicious files in).
  3. Scroll through the Files to delete list and select the following:

    Temporary Internet Files
    Downloads
    Recycle Bin
    Temporary files

  4. Pick Clean up system files.
    Delete temp files
  5. You can also look for other malicious files hidden in the following folders (type these entries in Windows Search and press Enter):

    %AppData%
    %LocalAppData%
    %ProgramData%
    %WinDir%

After you are finished, reboot the PC in normal mode.

Remove GlobeImposter 2.0 using System Restore

These steps will help you to initiate automatic removal.

  • Step 1: Reboot your computer to Safe Mode with Command Prompt
    Windows 7 / Vista / XP
    1. Click Start Shutdown Restart OK.
    2. When your computer becomes active, start pressing F8 multiple times until you see the Advanced Boot Options window.
    3. Select Command Prompt from the list Select 'Safe Mode with Command Prompt'

    Windows 10 / Windows 8
    1. Press the Power button at the Windows login screen. Now press and hold Shift, which is on your keyboard, and click Restart..
    2. Now select Troubleshoot Advanced options Startup Settings and finally press Restart.
    3. Once your computer becomes active, select Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt in Startup Settings window. Select 'Enable Safe Mode with Command Prompt'
  • Step 2: Restore your system files and settings
    1. Once the Command Prompt window shows up, enter cd restore and click Enter. Enter 'cd restore' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    2. Now type rstrui.exe and press Enter again.. Enter 'rstrui.exe' without quotes and press 'Enter'
    3. When a new window shows up, click Next and select your restore point that is prior the infiltration of GlobeImposter 2.0. After doing that, click Next. When 'System Restore' window shows up, select 'Next' Select your restore point and click 'Next'
    4. Now click Yes to start system restore. Click 'Yes' and start system restore
    Once you restore your system to a previous date, download and scan your computer with FortectIntego and make sure that GlobeImposter 2.0 removal is performed successfully.

Bonus: Recover your data

Guide which is presented above is supposed to help you remove GlobeImposter 2.0 from your computer. To recover your encrypted files, we recommend using a detailed guide prepared by 2-spyware.com security experts.

If your files are encrypted by GlobeImposter 2.0, you can use several methods to restore them:

Data Recovery Pro may help to restore files encrypted by GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware virus

Follow the steps to use this professional tool that might help to restore some of the encrypted files:

  • Download Data Recovery Pro;
  • Follow the steps of Data Recovery Setup and install the program on your computer;
  • Launch it and scan your computer for files encrypted by GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware;
  • Restore them.

Retrieve individual files using Windows Previous Versions feature

If System Restore function has been enabled before the ransomware attack, follow these steps to recover individual files:

  • Find an encrypted file you need to restore and right-click on it;
  • Select “Properties” and go to “Previous versions” tab;
  • Here, check each of available copies of the file in “Folder versions”. You should select the version you want to recover and click “Restore”.

ShadowExplorer may help to restore files encrypted by GlobeImposter 2.0 virus

If malware failed to delete Shadow Volume Copies of the targeted files, follow these steps and recover the files:

  • Download Shadow Explorer (http://shadowexplorer.com/);
  • Follow a Shadow Explorer Setup Wizard and install this application on your computer;
  • Launch the program and go through the drop down menu on the top left corner to select the disk of your encrypted data. Check what folders are there;
  • Right-click on the folder you want to restore and select “Export”. You can also select where you want it to be stored.

Try GlobeImposter decryptor

GlobeImposter decryptor might help to restore at least some of the encrypted files too. You can download it here.

Finally, you should always think about the protection of crypto-ransomwares. In order to protect your computer from GlobeImposter 2.0 and other ransomwares, use a reputable anti-spyware, such as FortectIntego, SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner or Malwarebytes

How to prevent from getting ransomware

Do not let government spy on you

The government has many issues in regards to tracking users' data and spying on citizens, so you should take this into consideration and learn more about shady information gathering practices. Avoid any unwanted government tracking or spying by going totally anonymous on the internet. 

You can choose a different location when you go online and access any material you want without particular content restrictions. You can easily enjoy internet connection without any risks of being hacked by using Private Internet Access VPN.

Control the information that can be accessed by government any other unwanted party and surf online without being spied on. Even if you are not involved in illegal activities or trust your selection of services, platforms, be suspicious for your own security and take precautionary measures by using the VPN service.

Backup files for the later use, in case of the malware attack

Computer users can suffer from data losses due to cyber infections or their own faulty doings. Ransomware can encrypt and hold files hostage, while unforeseen power cuts might cause a loss of important documents. If you have proper up-to-date backups, you can easily recover after such an incident and get back to work. It is also equally important to update backups on a regular basis so that the newest information remains intact – you can set this process to be performed automatically.

When you have the previous version of every important document or project you can avoid frustration and breakdowns. It comes in handy when malware strikes out of nowhere. Use Data Recovery Pro for the data restoration process.

About the author
Linas Kiguolis
Linas Kiguolis - Expert in social media

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References
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