If the CHRB file extension is placed on all of your valuable files, then your PC is infected with the CHRB virus strain of Matrix ransomware. The software locks files stored on computer drives and demands money to be paid as a ransom for a decryption tool.
CHRB Virus (Matrix Ransomware)
Matrix ransomware has been released in active attack campaigns once again, this time with the name CHRB virus. This malicious program is a ransomware-type of computer virus that encrypts files by appending the CHRB extension to them. Changes applied by the CHRB ransomware make files inaccessible. All encrypted files that have received the new extension remain locked until the decryption tool recovers their code. For that tool, the ransomware drops a ransom note that gives instructions to victims on how they can allegedly purchase the decryption tool. The amount of the ransom fee is not known at this point. Still, it is likely that hackers will demand it to be paid in cryptocurrency.
Matrix Ransomware will still impact the overall system performance and security for as long as it is running on the infected system. If you want to use your PC in a secure manner again, we recommend that you remove malicious files. Illustrated ransomware removal guide can be found at the end of this article.
CHRB Virus Summary
| Name | CHRB Virus |
| File Extension | .CHRB |
| Type | Ransomware, Cryptovirus |
| Short Description | The ransomware encrypts files on your computer system and demands a ransom to be paid for their recovery. |
| Symptoms | This variant of Matrix ransomware will encrypt your files by appending the .CHRB extension to them. A unique identification number will be placed as a secondary. |
| Ransom Demanding Note | !README_CHRB!.rtf |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments |
| Detection Tool |
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CHRB Ransomware – How Did It Infect My PC and What Happened?
CHRB ransomware virus might be released in the wild by the use of vicious means of distribution. The payload dropper which initiates the malicious script for this ransomware may be shared on social media or placed on file-sharing services. Helpful freeware which is found on the Web can also be hiding the malicious script for the cryptovirus.
There are quite a lot of similarities between the previous versions of this threat and the latest called CHRB virus. TG33 Virus, CTRM Virus and JJLF Virus are all designed to drop the following ransom message once they encode target files.
The difference is the emails presented by the note. In the case of CHRB ransomware, cybercriminals use the email addresses recoverydata1@cock.li and recoverydata1@protonmail.com. The emails can be found on the ransom note file !README_CHRB!.rtf. Here is the text message stored by this file:
HOW TO RECOVER YOUR FILES INSTRUCTION
ATENTION!!!
We are realy sorry to inform you that ALL YOUR FILES WERE ENCRYPTED
by our automatic software. It became possible because of bad server security.
ATENTION!!!
Please don’t worry, we can help you to RESTORE your server to original
state and decrypt all your files quickly and safely!INFORMATION!!!
Files are not broken!!!
Files were encrypted with AES-128+RSA-2048 crypto algorithms.
There is no way to decrypt your files without unique decryption key and special software. Your unique decryption key is securely stored on our server.
* Please note that all the attempts to recover your files by yourself or using third party tools will result only in irrevocable loss of your data!
* Please note that you can recover files only with your unique decryption key, which stored on our server.HOW TO RECOVER FILES???
Please write us to the e-mail (write on English or use professional translator):
RecoveryData1@cock.li
RecoveryData1@protonmail.com
RecoveryData1@protonmail.com
You have to send your message on each of our 3 emails due to the fact that the message may not reach their intended recipient for a variety of reasons!In subject line write your personal ID:
–
We recommed you to attach 3 encrypted files to your message. We will demonstrate that we can recover your files.
* Please note that files must not contain any valuable information and their total size must be less than 5Mb.OUR ADVICE!!!
Please be sure that we will find common languge. We will restore all the data and give you recommendations on how to configure the protection of your server.
It’s true that the ransomware encodes all types of files such as audio, pictures, video, banking data, backups, and other personal user files found on a compromised computer system. Still, a ransom payment is not recommended in any circumstances.
All encrypted will receive the .CHRB extension alongside a random generated one. That extension will be placed as a secondary one to each file.
Note also that the CHRB virus could make entries in the Windows Registry. By doing this, it aims to achieve persistence and become able to launch or repress processes in the infected Windows system.
The CHRB Virus File could be set to erase all the Shadow Volume Copies from the Windows operating system as well. With the help of the following command, the virus could automatically eliminate one of the file recovery options:
→vssadmin.exe delete shadows /all /Quiet
If your computer device was infected with this ransomware and your files are locked, read on through to find out how to get rid of harmful files and how to potentially restore .CHRB files back to normal.
Remove CHRB Virus
If your computer got infected with the CHRB virus, you should have a bit of experience in removing malware. You should get rid of this ransomware as quickly as possible. Otherwise, it can have the chance to spread further and infect other computers connected to the same network. You can try to remove ransomware traits by following the step-by-step instructions guide provided below.
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 CHRB Virus with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by CHRB Virus.
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 CHRB Virus 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.
CHRB Virus-FAQ
What is CHRB Virus Ransomware?
CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus Infect?
Via several ways.CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 .CHRB Virus files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .CHRB Virus 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 .CHRB Virus files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".CHRB Virus" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CHRB Virus 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 CHRB Virus 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.
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