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
How HolyGhost ransomware works
File encryption patterns
HolyGhost modifies encrypted files using specific patterns to mark them as encrypted:
Ransom note and payment demands
After encrypting files, HolyGhost displays ransom notes demanding payment for file recovery:
notes/FOR_DECRYPT.html
Technical indicators
Associated executable files
The following executable files are associated with HolyGhost ransomware:
- holyghost.exe
- payload.exe
- HolyRS.exe.bin
About this analysis
This HolyGhost ransomware analysis is part of Elastio's comprehensive ransomware detection database. Elastio provides advanced ransomware protection and recovery, helping organizations defend against and recover from ransomware attacks like HolyGhost.
Last updated: December 30, 2025
Elastio detects HolyGhost inside your data and backups.
The Hunt Engine uses Deep File Inspection to identify HolyGhost across live data, replicated data, and backups. If this family is in your environment, Elastio finds it before encryption completes. Run a scan against your recovery points to confirm.
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