I wrote this article to help you remove GlobeImposter 2.0 Ransomware. This GlobeImposter 2.0 Ransomware removal guide works for all Windows versions.
GlobeImposter 2.0 is the nth addition to the ransomware family. Unfortunately, hackers are creating newer and newer ransomware infections every single day. This is because this “business” has turned out to be quite the moneymaker. Regardless of all the warnings and safety guides provided online, users still tend to neglect the importance of protecting your own machine. In the end of the day, users are the ones who allow being infected. They don’t pay enough attention. They don’t do what is crucial to keep their machines safe. And crooks take advantage of that. In this article, we will talk about the GlobeImposter 2.0 ransomware, which you are obviously infected with given the fact you are reading this guide. We provide not only information about the pest but also instructions on how it operated, how to remove it, how to get your data back, and most importantly, how to prevent future infections.
As a classic ransomware, GlobeImposter 2.0 follows a pattern. First, it tricks you into letting it get in but we will talk about that later. Second, the pest uses a complicated encryption algorithm to lock all of your files from pictures, music, and videos to important work documents, databases, presentations, etc. Everything falls victim to the threat. The ransomware also appends the “.crypt” extension at the end of each locked file. This way, it solidifies its hold over your data. Seeing this appendix means that your files have already been encrypted. The actual encryption happened completely behind your back. There are no signs to give away what is actually happening. You only realize you have a problem once your data is already gone.
GlobeImposter 2.0 deletes the original files and creates encrypted copies which pretty much means that you are left with a pile of useless data. Once you finally realize what has happened, it is too late. Nothing you do reverses the situation. You cannot use your files in any way. This is when GlobeImposter 2.0 makes its final move. It drops the “HOW_OPEN_FILES.hta” file on your Desktop. This is the ransom note which explains your situation. According to it, if you want to your files back you will need a decryptor. Of course, it doesn’t come for free. This is how crooks make money.
You are supposed to pay up. In this case, the cybercriminals demand 1 Bitcoin. The claim that once you pay, they will send you the tool. Don’t believe that even for a second. You cannot make deals with crooks. They are not to be trusted. Most probably, they will take your money and then ignore you. You have to realize that you cannot win this battle by paying. Giving them money only proves that they scheme works and encourages them to keep applying it. Don’t do that. Not only won’t you get a decryptor, but you will expose your personal information to them. Use our guide instead and delete GlobeImposter 2.0 for good. If you want to get your data back, the pest must be gone. Otherwise, it will just re-encrypt it. Speaking of this, even if the hackers do send you the decryptor, it does not remove the ransomware and even if you actually free your files, sooner or later they will get locked again.
How did GlobeImposter 2.0 enter and how can I protect myself? Ransomware pieces usually rely on spam emails messages which are disguised to appear as legitimate. Crooks attach the pest`s executable to an email and send it to you. The rest is up to you. If you tend to blindly open everything you receive, change your habits. Don’t open emails from unknown people as chances are, they deliver infections. You are basically helping hackers with your carelessness, haste, and distraction. Other tactics include malicious ads and links, compromised pages, fake updates, the help of Trojan horses, etc. The same rule applies – always be on the alert. The web is full of parasites and you see for yourself how dangerous these parasites can be. Be vigilant and protect your PC.
GlobeImposter 2.0 Ransomware Removal
Method 1: Restore your encrypted files using ShadowExplorer
Usually, GlobeImposter 2.0 Ransomware deletes all shadow copies, stored in your computer. Luckily, the ransomware is not always able to delete the shadow copies. So your first try should be restoring the original files from shadow copies.
- Download ShadowExplorer from this link: http://www.shadowexplorer.com/downloads.html.
- Install ShadowExplorer
- Open ShadowExplorer and select C: drive on the left panel
- Choose at least a month ago date from the date field
- Navigate to the folder with encrypted files
- Right-click on the encrypted file
- Select “Export” and choose a destination for the original file
Method 2: Restore your encrypted files by using System Restore
- Go to Start –> All programs –> Accessories –> System tools –> System restore
- Click “Next“
- Choose a restore point, at least a month ago
- Click “Next“
- Choose Disk C: (should be selected by default)
- Click “Next“. Wait for a few minutes and the restore should be done.
Method 3: Restore your files using File Recovery Software
If none of the above method works, you should try to recover encrypted files by using File Recovery Software. Since GlobeImposter 2.0 Ransomware first makes a copy of the original file, then encrypts it and deletes the original one, you can successfully restore the original, using a File Recovery Software. Here are a few free File Recovery Software programs:
