What Is Xcmb Virus?
Xcmb virus is the name of a ransomware infection that has been detected to be a part of a very large family of viruses, known as STOP/DJVU ransomware. The main purpose of the virus is to get in your computer without you even realising it and use encryption on your files to render them in the no longer openable state. This is done with the primary idea to get you to read the instructions that were sent by the cyber criminals who are behind the virus, called _readme.txt. The main objective of this ransom note is to extort you into paying a ransom in the form of Bitcoin that is hundreds of dollars worth. The virus can be recognized by leaving the files with the .xcmb extension after the encryption process is completed.
Read this article to learn more about how this ransomware works and how you can remove it from your computer system and try to restore your files and decrypt them for free if possible.
Xcmb Virus Summary
| Name | Xcmb virus, also known as UDS:Trojan.Win32.Chapak.gen, Ransom:Win32/StopCrypt.KM!MTB, Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj], A Variant Of Win32/GenKryptik.FHJB |
| File Extension | .Xcmb |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid to allegedly recover them. |
| Symptoms | The Xcmb Virus ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the Xcmb extension to them. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | _readme.txt |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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Xcmb Virus – How Does It Infect?
Xcmb is a variant of the same run some more family as the .yjqs, .shgv and .mljx viruses. What is the main thing in common between these viruses besides how they work is how they end up on your computer. Usually, these infections can enter your machine via one of the two main ways:
- If you have downloaded some type of an email attachment or clicked on a link that is shared on an email message sent to you that appears important.
- If you downloaded some type of a file which upon executing has caused the infection.
In case the infection is conducted via the email option, then the virus may pretend to be a legitimate file, usually a document that is embedded in the email as an attachment, for example:
- Invoices.
- Work-related files.
- Receipts.
- E-Tickets for events or flights.
Just like other STOP Ransomware variants, the Xcmb variant could use documents that are attached to these emails and contain malicious macros that triggered the following infection process as soon as the victim downloads the email attachment:
The other way to compromise your computer is if the virus is uploaded on some type of a website with lol reputation and you download and activate a file that you have been looking to download, like:
- Key generator (or Keygen).
- Fake installation files.
- Software patches.
- Self extracting archives or regular archives.
- Cracked portable versions of apps.
- Software or game cracks.
Xcmb Virus – What Does It Do?
The main activity of this ransom ware infection as soon as it gets in your computer is to drop its _readme.txt file, which makes sure you know if its presence on your computer. The ransom note has the following extortion message:
The Xcmb virus may also begin to attack your Windows Registry Editor by adding values in the following registry subkeys:
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
These subkeys are primarily responsible for running files automatically on windows start up.
Nothing only this, but the ransomware may also drop its module files in the following Windows directories:
- %AppData%
- %Local%
- %Temp%
- %System%
- %system32%
- %Windows%
- %SystemDrive%
- %LocalLow%
These files exist with the main idea for this virus to complete its final purpose – to encrypt your files.
.xcmb Files – What Are They?
This malware may skip encrypting files in the system directories of Windows, but other than that, it scans for the following types of data to encode them:
- Audio file formats (.mp3, .wav, etc.).
- Pictures (.jpg, .png, .etc).
- Video file types (.mp4, .avi, etc.).
- Archives (.zip, .rar, etc).
- Document file kinds (.docx, .pptx, etc.).
- Other types of often used data.
After encrypting the files, they assume the following look:
Picture.jpg.xcmb
How to Remove Xcmb Virus?
To remove Xcmb virus from your computer system, we would strongly recommend that you follow the removal instructions that have been posted underneath this article. They have been designed with the primary idea in mind to contain the steps that will help you solve the issue of this ransomware being active on your device. Be advised, that security experts strongly advise that you should remove this virus by using a professional anti-malware software. Such a program has been designed with the primary idea in mind to thoroughly scan your device and get rid of any malicious files from it automatically.
How to Decrypt .Xcmb Files?
Xcmb virus can contain two types of decryption keys – off-line and online-based. If your key is off-line based, we would strongly suggest that you check out the steps that are illustrated in our STOP Ransomware File Decryption Guide. You can also use the video guide below. They both contain instructions on how to use the official decryption software for this virus, created by independent and reputable malware researchers.Video guide for using the STOP Ransomware Decryptor:
If your key is online-based, then we would highly suggest that you try out the alternative methods for file recovery from the guide below. They may not be 100% solution to all your files, but with their help you could recover at least some of your data.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Step 1: Scan for Xcmb with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Xcmb and related malware from Windows
Here is a method in few easy steps that should be able to uninstall most programs. No matter if you are using Windows 10, 8, 7, Vista or XP, those steps will get the job done. Dragging the program or its folder to the recycle bin can be a very bad decision. If you do that, bits and pieces of the program are left behind, and that can lead to unstable work of your PC, errors with the file type associations and other unpleasant activities. The proper way to get a program off your computer is to Uninstall it. To do that:
Follow the instructions above and you will successfully delete most unwanted and malicious programs.
Step 3: Clean any registries, created by Xcmb on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
- HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Xcmb there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.
Step 4: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Xcmb
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Xcmb.
Method 1: Use STOP Decrypter by Emsisoft.
Not all variants of this ransomware can be decrypted for free, but we have added the decryptor used by researchers that is often updated with the variants which become eventually decrypted. You can try and decrypt your files using the instructions below, but if they do not work, then unfortunately your variant of the ransomware virus is not decryptable.
Follow the instructions below to use the Emsisoft decrypter and decrypt your files for free. You can download the Emsisoft decryption tool linked here and then follow the steps provided below:
1 Right-click on the decrypter and click on Run as Administrator as shown below:
2. Agree with the license terms:
3. Click on "Add Folder" and then add the folders where you want files decrypted as shown underneath:
4. Click on "Decrypt" and wait for your files to be decoded.
Note: Credit for the decryptor goes to Emsisoft researchers who have made the breakthrough with this virus.
Method 2: Use data recovery software
Ransomware infections and Xcmb aim to encrypt your files using an encryption algorithm which may be very difficult to decrypt. This is why we have suggested a data recovery method that may help you go around direct decryption and try to restore your files. Bear in mind that this method may not be 100% effective but may also help you a little or a lot in different situations.
Simply click on the link and on the website menus on the top, choose Data Recovery - Data Recovery Wizard for Windows or Mac (depending on your OS), and then download and run the tool.
Xcmb-FAQ
What is Xcmb Ransomware?
Xcmb is a ransomware infection - the malicious software that enters your computer silently and blocks either access to the computer itself or encrypt your files.
Many ransomware viruses use sophisticated encryption algorithms to make your files inaccessible. The goal of ransomware infections is to demand that you pay a ransom payment to get access to your files back.
What Does Xcmb Ransomware Do?
Ransomware in general is a malicious software that is designed to block access to your computer or files until a ransom is paid.
Ransomware viruses can also damage your system, corrupt data and delete files, resulting in the permanent loss of important files.
How Does Xcmb Infect?
Via several ways.Xcmb Ransomware infects computers by being sent via phishing emails, containing virus attachment. This attachment is usually masked as an important document, like an invoice, bank document or even a plane ticket and it looks very convincing to users.
Another way you may become a victim of Xcmb is if you download a fake installer, crack or patch from a low reputation website or if you click on a virus link. Many users report getting a ransomware infection by downloading torrents.
How to Open .Xcmb files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Xcmb files are encrypted. You can only open them once they are decrypted using a specific decryption key for the particular algorithm.
What to Do If a Decryptor Does Not Work?
Do not panic, and backup the files. If a decryptor did not decrypt your .Xcmb files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Xcmb" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Xcmb files.
These methods are in no way 100% guaranteed that you will be able to get your files back. But if you have a backup, your chances of success are much greater.
How To Get Rid of Xcmb Virus?
The safest way and the most efficient one for the removal of this ransomware infection is the use a professional anti-malware program.
It will scan for and locate Xcmb ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Xcmb files.
Can I Report Ransomware to Authorities?
In case your computer got infected with a ransomware infection, you can report it to the local Police departments. It can help authorities worldwide track and determine the perpetrators behind the virus that has infected your computer.
Below, we have prepared a list with government websites, where you can file a report in case you are a victim of a cybercrime:
Cyber-security authorities, responsible for handling ransomware attack reports in different regions all over the world:
Germany - Offizielles Portal der deutschen Polizei
United States - IC3 Internet Crime Complaint Centre
United Kingdom - Action Fraud Police
France - Ministère de l'Intérieur
Italy - Polizia Di Stato
Spain - Policía Nacional
Netherlands - Politie
Poland - Policja
Portugal - Polícia Judiciária
Greece - Cyber Crime Unit (Hellenic Police)
India - Mumbai Police - CyberCrime Investigation Cell
Australia - Australian High Tech Crime Center
Reports may be responded to in different timeframes, depending on your local authorities.
Can You Stop Ransomware from Encrypting Your Files?
Yes, you can prevent ransomware. The best way to do this is to ensure your computer system is updated with the latest security patches, use a reputable anti-malware program and firewall, backup your important files frequently, and avoid clicking on malicious links or downloading unknown files.
Can Xcmb Ransomware Steal Your Data?
Yes, in most cases ransomware will steal your information. It is a form of malware that steals data from a user's computer, encrypts it, and then demands a ransom in order to decrypt it.
In many cases, the malware authors or attackers will threaten to delete the data or publish it online unless the ransom is paid.
Can Ransomware Infect WiFi?
Yes, ransomware can infect WiFi networks, as malicious actors can use it to gain control of the network, steal confidential data, and lock out users. If a ransomware attack is successful, it could lead to a loss of service and/or data, and in some cases, financial losses.
Should I Pay Ransomware?
No, you should not pay ransomware extortionists. Paying them only encourages criminals and does not guarantee that the files or data will be restored. The better approach is to have a secure backup of important data and be vigilant about security in the first place.
What Happens If I Don't Pay Ransom?
If you don't pay the ransom, the hackers may still have access to your computer, data, or files and may continue to threaten to expose or delete them, or even use them to commit cybercrimes. In some cases, they may even continue to demand additional ransom payments.
Can a Ransomware Attack Be Detected?
Yes, ransomware can be detected. Anti-malware software and other advanced security tools can detect ransomware and alert the user when it is present on a machine.
It is important to stay up-to-date on the latest security measures and to keep security software updated to ensure ransomware can be detected and prevented.
Do Ransomware Criminals Get Caught?
Yes, ransomware criminals do get caught. Law enforcement agencies, such as the FBI, Interpol and others have been successful in tracking down and prosecuting ransomware criminals in the US and other countries. As ransomware threats continue to increase, so does the enforcement activity.
About the Xcmb Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Xcmb how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific malware and restore your encrypted files.
How did we conduct the research on this ransomware?
Our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, and as such, we receive daily updates on the latest malware and ransomware definitions.
Furthermore, the research behind the Xcmb ransomware threat is backed with VirusTotal and the NoMoreRansom project.
To better understand the ransomware threat, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.
As a site that has been dedicated to providing free removal instructions for ransomware and malware since 2014, SensorsTechForum’s recommendation is to only pay attention to trustworthy sources.
How to recognize trustworthy sources:
- Always check "About Us" web page.
- Profile of the content creator.
- Make sure that real people are behind the site and not fake names and profiles.
- Verify Facebook, LinkedIn and Twitter personal profiles.