Ransomware Research

HolyGhost Ransomware

HolyGhost is a malicious ransomware strain that encrypts victim files and demands ransom payment for decryption. First observed in the wild on June 1, 2022, this ransomware has been actively targeting systems worldwide. Security researchers also track this malware under the aliases: H0lyGh0st, HolyGhost, HolyLocker, SiennaPurple, SiennaBlue.

Quick Facts

Ransomware Family
HolyGhost
First Seen
June 1, 2022
Known Aliases
H0lyGh0stHolyGhostHolyLockerSiennaPurpleSiennaBlue

How HolyGhost Ransomware Works

File Encryption Patterns

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

File extensions added after encryption:

..h0lyenc

Ransom Note and Payment Demands

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

fileFOR_DECRYPT.html

Ransom message:

notes/FOR_DECRYPT.html

Note locations:

DesktopRootDirectory

Technical Indicators

Associated Executable Files

The following executable files are associated with HolyGhost ransomware:

  • holyghost.exe
  • payload.exe
  • HolyRS.exe.bin

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About This Analysis

This HolyGhost ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery solutions, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like HolyGhost.

Last updated: July 30, 2025