Fortunately, researchers at TrendMicro have successfully created a decryptor for Cerber ransomware. Unfortunately, the cyber-criminals have anticipated this move, immediately and mockingly enough releasing a second variant of this nasty cyber-threat. The war against Cerber continues, leaving many victims of this nasty malware string wherever it passes. For those who are unfamiliar, Cerber ransomware is a crypto-virus which uses an extremely strong encryption to encode the files, making them no longer readable. The virus then drops a ransom note scaring of users to pay the ransom. But do not become desperate, because a decryptor is now available for free and in this update we aim to show you how to use it to start decrypting files that have been encrypted by Cerber.
Threat Summary
| Name |
Cerber |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | The malware encrypts users’ files after force restarting their PC, dropping ransom messages, named “# DECRYPT MY FILES #” |
| Symptoms | The user may witness ransom messages and “instructions” and a sound message all linking to a web page and a decryptor. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit. |
| Detection Tool |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss Cerber Ransomware. |
Cerber Ransomware – Background
When its initial variant came out, Cerber demanded affected users to pay the sum of 500 USD to decrypt their files. The sum was be paid in BitCoins, and the cryptovirus did not start out strongly and massively at its initial state. However, with new spam campaigns being released, Cerber quickly escalated and continued encrypting files with a strong AES encryption cipher and adding the .cerber file extension to them.
Users, being affected by this virus were advised to wait for a decryptor instead of funding the cyber-criminals. However, some users have paid the ransom and this “return of investment” gave the cyber-criminals who are most likely the same people, to create Cerber2 ransomware, that is at this state undecryptable.
Decrypting Files Encrypted by Cerber Effectively
To best display to you, the reader how to successfully decrypt your files for free, we need you to be focused while reading this and keep in mind that this process may take a lot of time, so be prepared.
We have divided this process into two stages:
Stage 1: Preparation
If you wish to decode data it all depends on factorizing the algorithm. This is why this process takes different time. Since this is usually so, you are obliged to leave your PC to work for a long time and not interrupt it in any way while it is decrypting files. Since these are the circumstances, you should be prepared for the situation by modifying your computer’s Power Options. Since most PC’s on Windows are usually configured to hibernate or sleep after some time, here is how to make them never to sleep again:
Step 1: Click on the battery icon in your system tray (next to the digital clock) in Windows and then click on More Power Options.
Step 2:The mighty Power options menu will appear. In your power plan click on Change Plan Settings.
Step 3: In your plan’s settings make sure you set “Turn off the display” and “Put computer to sleep” to “Never” from the drop down minutes menu.
Step 4: Click on “Change Advanced Plan Settings” and click to expand the “Hard Disk” option in the list there.
Step 5: From there, set the power settings (On Battery and Powered On) to “Never”.
Now, you should configure your PC to start decrypting Cerber ransomware’s files. Bear in mind that the process may take a lot of time so arm yourself with patience.
Stage 2: Decryption
Step 1: To begin decryption, download TrendMicro’s decrypter by clicking on the button below:
Step 2: After downloading, open the archive (you should have an archive reader, like WinRar) by clicking on the download icon of your browser and clicking on the file:
Step 3: After the archive is open, extract the decrypter on your Desktop by dragging it out of the archive.
Step 4: Open the decrypter. Make sure it is done as an administrator and click on the “I agree” when a pop-up box appears. After this is complete, you should see the following:
Step 5: Click on the “Select” button to select the ransomware name as shown under the step 1 from the picture above.
Step 6: Select Cerber and then click on OK:
Step 7: Go ahead and click on the second step (Select and Decrypt) button which will open a file explorer. From there choose one encrypted file by Cerber. Preferably choose a smaller file:
Step 8: From there, the TrendMicro scanning process should begin. The program should be able to find other encrypted files as well and try to decrypt them if it has decrypted one file:
Cerber Ransomware Decryption – Conclusion and Recommendations
Since the decryption process may take some time, we strongly recommend staying protected in the meantime and in the future from other threats as well. This is why you should follow several simple steps to greatly increase ransomware protection shortly at least:
1. Follow these general protection tips.
2. Download an advanced malware protection program.
Spy Hunter scanner will only detect the threat. If you want the threat to be automatically removed, you need to purchase the full version of the anti-malware tool.Find Out More About SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool / How to Uninstall SpyHunter
3. Download a relevant ransomware protection program.
4. Download a relevant cloud backup program that backups copies of your files on a secure server and even if your computer is affected you will stay protected.
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 Cerber with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall Cerber 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 Cerber 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 Cerber 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 Cerber
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by Cerber.
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 Cerber 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.
Cerber-FAQ
What is Cerber Ransomware?
Cerber 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 Cerber 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 Cerber Infect?
Via several ways.Cerber 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 Cerber 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 .Cerber files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .Cerber 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 .Cerber files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".Cerber" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .Cerber 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 Cerber 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 Cerber ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .Cerber 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 Cerber 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 Cerber Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Cerber 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 Cerber 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.
my computer is attacked by cerber 3 is there a decryption tool ?? please help
Hello, can you send encrypted files and the virus’s files (ransom note as well as malicious files if you find them) to idunno @ abv.bg as attachments? We will see what we can do. Make sure to look for the ransom note. It is usually located in the folders of the encrypted files or:
%System Drive%
%AppData%
%Roaming%
%Local%
%Desktop%
your email is not working.
it is working, but for the third version of cerber there is no official decryptor. when such is released be sure to expect an article with instructions similar to this one
contact me on fb.mail tkrutik@facebook.com
Hi, I still have the mail with which I was infected, a rescue note and encrypted files. I could send them to warn you that it is a virus.? So see the possibility of finding a solution.
hola tengo todavia el mail con que fui infectado, nota de rescate y achivos encriptados. Te los podria enviar avisandote de que se trata de virus.? Asi ver la posibilidad de encontrar una solucion.
mam,u can use software decryption tools released by enigma.if trouble in using software then contact me on facebook.or send ur encrypted file to
Hello my comuter was also attacked today, is there any chance the tool still works?
I read in another article it doesnt
Thanks!
you 500% chances
Hey, I just sent you an encrypted file and decrypted file on idunno@abv.bg
If possible, please send me the details of encryption with it. I think I can work out something about it. I’m still looking for detailed information on their encryption methods.
hi to all, i can help you for your .enc and .encrypted files, please send me 1 or 2 encrypted files with ransom note file (html or txt),
Hola, baje el desencriptador y probe las distintas variantes, solo en una desencripta un archivo jpg, pero cuando lo quiero abrir, me dice que no es un archivo jpg admitido, alguna opinion que me puedan dar? Los archivos que intento desencriptar son jpg y cambiaron a RnsFtJKPwr.B6D3
Hello, I downloaded the decrypter and probe the different variants, only in one decrypts a jpg file, but when I want to open it, it tells me that it is not a jpg file admitted, any opinion that I can give? The files I try to decrypt are jpg and changed to RnsFtJKPwr.B6D3
my laptop have attacked by cerber ransomware extension .9c8b. pls help me
Hello
Excuse me, but I click to download the decryptor “RansomwareFileDecryptor 1.0.1627 MUI.zip” but the link download “TeslacryptDecryptor 1.0.1569 MUI.zip” ???
This executable decrypt only file crypted by the virus “TeslaCrypt (V3,V4)”
What is the link to download the Zip file “RansomwareFileDecryptor 1.0.1627 MUI.zip” specified in this web page ???
Thank’s a lot for your next response
Hello and thank you for the feedback! We do not have control over third-party web links, as you may have guessed and sometimes the third-party site admins may decide to change the URL, which may have been the case here. I have updated the Download button with a URL to the decrypter. The URL is the following:
solutionfile.trendmicro.com/solutionfile/1114221/RansomwareFileDecryptor%201.0.1667%20MUI.zip
I have successfully download the tool but when I select the ransomware name noting is appear
saludos me pueden ayudar mis archivos jpg se transformaron a esto: 0IgKVzLi4w.be6b todos tienen la misma extensión me pueden ayudar para saber como desencriptarlos gracias