What is .ceph files virus? How did it infect your system? Is there a chance to restore your .ceph files? Our removal guide will help you understand the answers to all these questions.
Cephalo is ransomware infection designed to damage computer systems and personal files. It uses a strong cipher algorithm to transform the code of valuable files and leaves them out of order. The ransomware is associated with the specific file extension .ceph. It appends this extension to the names of all encrypted files. At the end of the attack, Cephalo ransomware also known as .ceph files virus drops a ransom message to extort a ransom fee for .ceph files recovery.
Threat Summary
| Name | .ceph |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | A data locker ransomware that utilizes sophisticated cipher algorithm to encrypt files stored on infected computers. Then it demands a ransom fee for files decryption. |
| Symptoms | Important files are locked and renamed with the extension .ceph. Ransom message extorts a ransom payment for their recovery. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss .ceph. |
| Data Recovery Tool | Windows Data Recovery by Stellar Phoenix Notice! This product scans your drive sectors to recover lost files and it may not recover 100% of the encrypted files, but only few of them, depending on the situation and whether or not you have reformatted your drive. |
.ceph Files Virus (Cephalo Ransomware) – What is It All About?
Cephalo ransomware is the name of a cryptovirus that plagues computer systems with the goal to reach personal files and encode them with cipher algorithm. Since it appends the extension .ceph to the names of encrypted files, it has been given the alternative name .ceph files virus.
Currently, it is not clear which are the exact mechanisms used for the spread of this ransomware. However, the guesses are hackers bet on some of the most popular ones. These techniques include – malspam, corrupted websites, freeware installers and malvertising.
The most preferred one is malspam. It is realized with the help of massive email spam campaigns that attempt to deliver the ransomware payload file on target computers. They usually present the malicious code in the form of an attached file or clickable URL address. To make you more prone to download the file or click the link, these emails may pose as representatives of legitimate business and governmental services. In the event that you follow the email instructions, you will allow the ransomware payload to run on your device.
Once started on a target PC Cephalo .ceph files viurs plagues various system settings in order to encrypt valuable files stored on it. It realizes the encryption proccess with the help of a highly sophisticated encryption algorithm probably AES or RSA. Files it targets are likely to be:
- Audio files
- Video files
- Document files
- Image files
- Backup files
- Banking credentials, etc
Following the encryption process, the ransomware leaves all corrupted files inaccessible. Sure sign of an encrypted file is the extension .ceph appended to its original name.
When all above-stated issues occur, Cephalo ransomware drops a ransom message that attempts to blackmail you into paying a ransom fee to cybercriminals. The message is stored in the file _READ_ME_.txt and below you can see a copy of its text:
– // –
Your files, personal data and identity are now being held for ransom.
This campaign is targeted at pedophiles worldwide, exposing those who are downloading and sharing child pornography.
If the ransom is not paid, your data will never be recovered and you will be exposed to the world.
– // –
Your sensitive files have been encrypted and uploaded to our Tor Hidden Service and will soon be analyzed by our team.
Your files will soon be presented together with your personal data (name, address and contact information), screen captures and webcam captures (if present) to the appropriate authorities and will soon after be released publicly across several platforms.
In order to cease our team from contacting the authorities and releasing the data publicly, a payment is required.
You have up to 72 hours to complete payment, during this time your files and personal data will be prepared for public exposure.
– // –
Requested Amount: 125 USD (current equivalent in Bitcoin).
Payment is demanded in Bitcoin, a form of electronic cash.
Bitcoin Payment Address: –> 193kt6VwHgoedmq7Vpme2EeAmovCobkfBN <-- Deadline: --><-- - // - Gathered information is inclusive of; all documents, images, videos and archives found on the system (including removable devices). Browser data such as; browsing/download history, active logins, form/search history and cookies. Screen captures and webcam captures (if present at time of data collection). Storage devices have also been mined for deleted data using recovery tools. - // - https://virtualglobaltaskforce.com/operations/ https://www.europol.europa.eu/crime-areas-and-trends/crime-areas/child-sexual-exploitation https://www.interpol.int/Crimes/Crimes-against-children - // -
Be advised to refrain from paying hackers the ransom as this action does not guarantee the recovery of your .ceph files. Since the code of their threat may be full of bugs, their decrypter may not be working.
Remove .ceph Files Virus (Cephalo Ransomware) and Attempt to Restore Data
The so-called .ceph files virus is a threat with highly complex code designed to corrupt both system settings and valuable data. So the only way to use your infected computer in a secure manner again is to remove .ceph virus with all its malicious files and objects from the computer system. For the purpose, you could use our removal guide that reveals how to clean and secure your system step by step. You will also be presented with several alternative data recovery approaches that may be helpful in attempting to restore .ceph files. We remind you to back up all encrypted files to an external drive before the recovery process.
Gergana Ivanova
Highly motivated writer with 5+ years of experience writing for ransomware, malware, adware, PUPs, and other cybersecurity-related issues. As a writer, I strive to create content that is based on thorough technical research. I find joy in the process of creating articles that are easy to understand, informative, and useful. Follow me on Twitter (@IRGergana) for the latest in the field of computer, mobile, and online security.
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Step 1: Scan for .ceph with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall .ceph 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 .ceph 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 .ceph 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 .ceph
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by .ceph.
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 .ceph 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.
.ceph-FAQ
What is .ceph Ransomware?
.ceph 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 .ceph 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 .ceph Infect?
Via several ways..ceph 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 .ceph 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 ..ceph files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the ..ceph 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 ..ceph files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore "..ceph" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore ..ceph 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 .ceph 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 .ceph ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important ..ceph 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 .ceph 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 .ceph Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this .ceph 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 .ceph 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.
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