What is a .PURGE file?
A .purge file is a file that has been encrypted and renamed by a specific type of malicious software known as Globe ransomware. Originally, this could be any type of file such as an image, video, document, or database. Once affected by Globe ransomware, the file receives an additional extension, .purge, appended to its original extension. For example, a JPEG image file named "photo.jpg" would be renamed to "photo.jpg.purge" after encryption.
Due to the encryption, the contents of the file become inaccessible, and you cannot open it in a normal way. The purpose of this encryption is to demand a ransom from the user to regain access to their files.
Programs to Open: The primary tool recommended for attempting to decrypt and regain access to files with a .purge extension is the Emsisoft Decryptor for Globe. This software is designed to decrypt files affected by Globe ransomware without paying the ransom.
More Information: Globe ransomware was first reported in 2016. It operates by infecting computers, encrypting files, and then demanding a ransom from the victims. It also changes the desktop background to an image related to the movie "Purge: Election Year" and displays a ransom note named "How to restore files.hta," which automatically opens to instruct the user on how to proceed.
The exact method of how Globe ransomware spreads is not definitively known, but it is typically distributed through deceptive emails containing malicious attachments or through software bundles that contain hidden malware.
Advice on Ransom Payment: It is advised not to pay the ransom demanded by the attackers. Paying does not guarantee the recovery of encrypted files, and it encourages the perpetrators to continue their criminal activities. Instead, users are encouraged to seek alternative decryption tools like the Emsisoft Decryptor for Globe, which might help restore files without any cost.
Note: Other variants of Globe ransomware use different file extensions like .globe or .xtbl instead of .purge. Each variant requires a specific approach or tool for decryption.
Verification
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