This article aims to help you remove X3M Cerber Decryptor ransomware from your computer and restore files, encrypted with _x3m _r9oj or _locked file extensions.
A ransomware virus discovered in the beginning of January has been reported to use AES encryption algorithm to render the files on the computers it infects no longer openable. The virus aims to perform numerous activities on the victim’s computer, amongst which are to leave a ransom note and modify different components of it, to make it run on system startup. Despite that X3M ransomware demands “Cerber Decryptor”, the virus may have nothing to do with the original Cerber ransomware. The malware also demands 700 dollars payment to restore encrypted files, which is highly inadvisable. Instead we advise you to read the following article and learn how to remove X3M Cerber Decryptor virus and try to restore your files.
Threat Summary
| Name |
X3M |
| Type | Ransomware |
| Short Description | This virus imitates Cerber Ransomware and encrypts the files with an AES encryption algorithm to demand 700 dollars for decryption. |
| Symptoms | Changed wallpaper to a ransom note. Advertises <> and <>. |
| Distribution Method | Via an Exploit kit, Dll file attack, malicious JavaScript or a drive-by download of the malware itself in an obfuscated manner. |
| Detection Tool |
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Malware Removal Tool
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| User Experience | Join our forum to Discuss X3M. |
| 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. |
How X3M Cerber Decryptor Infects
Similar to other ransomware viruses, such as the original Cerber ransomware, this virus uses quite the combination of tools and tricks up it’s sleeve that aim to ensure successful infection. One of those tools is software that ensures open ports on which to spam a given message and hence use it to deliver, extract and upload various shells. Another tool ensures fake database of web mails and e-mail accounts that have been tested before against spam defenses and filters. Furthermore, cyber-criminals may also use a pre-defined web list of victim accounts that are to be spammed. Usually more attractive are enterprise accounts because of the value of information in them. The cyber-criminals also have servers from which they control the infections and numerous pre-written phishing e-mails that make it look like they were send from legitimate services such as:
- PayPal.
- FedEx.
- Newegg.
- Skype.
- AliBaba.
- AliExpress.
- UPS.
- DHL.
- Macys.
- Apple.
- Overstock.
- Skrill.
- CraigsList.
- Wallmart.
Those e-mails usually have an e-mail attachment that may either be a JavaScript, HTML Microsoft Office and Adobe documents. The documents may infect when the user clicks on a “Enable Content” button which causes an infection with malicious macros.
X3M Cerber Decryptor Virus – Post-Infection Activity
After the user becomes infected, the infection malware may connect to the server of the cyber-criminals and download different types of executable modules in various Windows key directories, such as:
After the files are downloaded, the X3M Cerber Decryptor ransomware may modify the Run and RunOnce registry entries in Windows to set the location of the malicious file that encrypts data. It will also make sure to modify the registry value of the Wallpaper.
To encrypt files, the X3M Cerber Decryptor threat uses an AES (Advanced Encryption Standard) cipher, which alters bits of those files’ code into symbols from the encryption cipher. After this, the virus may add one of the following file extensions – _x3m, _r9oj, _locked. The encrypted files may appear like the following:
After encryption, researcher at id-ransowmare.blogspot.bg reports that the virus changes the wallpaper with the following note to the victim, in order to make it’s presence known:
“ALL YOUR IMPORTANT FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted! To decrypt your files you need to buy the special software – «Cerber decryptor»
Data recovery requires decoder.
To obtain decryptor, please, contact me by email: server-support@india.com
The cost of the decoder: ~700 USD
Payment only Bitcoin.
Your personal identification ID: id-2650322560
______________________________________
ALL YOUR IMPORTANT FILES ARE ENCRYPTED
Your documents, photos, databases and other important files have been encrypted! To decrypt your files you need to buy the special software – «x3m decryptor»
To obtain decryptor, please, contact me by email: deyscriptors1@india.com
Your personal identification ID:”
There is also a backup e-mail used by one of the variants of this virus in the note and It is server-support@india.com.
Remove X3M Cerber Decryptor Virus and Restore the Files
In conclusion this is a Cerber ransomware copycat, most likely a low-quality one. Nonetheless, in case you have been infected by this virus, there are numerous options for you to do, instead of choosing to pay 700 dollars to the crooks who made it.
First, malware researchers recommend removing X3M Cerber Decryptor immediately from your computer. This will create a safe environment if you want to try and restore the file. For the removal, we suggest to follow the instructions below. In case you lack experience in removing ransomware, experts also advise to use an advanced anti-malware program which will ensure automatic detection and removal of X3M.
After removing the malware, advices are to follow the instructions in step “2.Restore files encrypted by X3M” below. They include multiple methods to restore the files, some of which may damage them , if the virus has a CBC-mode enabled. This is why, we advise you to backup the encrypted files before begging to employ those tools.
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 X3M with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Ransomware Automatic Removal - Video Guide
Step 2: Uninstall X3M 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 X3M 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 X3M 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 X3M
Step 5: Try to Restore Files Encrypted by X3M.
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 X3M 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.
X3M-FAQ
What is X3M Ransomware?
X3M 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 X3M 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 X3M Infect?
Via several ways.X3M 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 X3M 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 .X3M files?
You can't without a decryptor. At this point, the .X3M 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 .X3M files successfully, then do not despair, because this virus is still new.
Can I Restore ".X3M" Files?
Yes, sometimes files can be restored. We have suggested several file recovery methods that could work if you want to restore .X3M 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 X3M 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 X3M ransomware and then remove it without causing any additional harm to your important .X3M 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 X3M 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 X3M Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this X3M 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 X3M 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.
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