Cerber Ransomware 5.0.1: _README_.hta virus decryption and removal

A notorious data-encrypting threat is currently manifesting itself as Cerber Ransomware 5.0.1, the latest edition that creates the _README_.hta ransom note.

The Cerber ransomware keeps mutating to persevere with its successful deployment campaigns and continue to be a moving target for the IT security community. The new variant looks quite similar to its precursors on the outside, but turns out to have fundamental differences upon closer scrutiny. First of all, the desktop wallpaper with the ransom note now associates the attack with what’s called “Cerber Ransomware 5.0.1”. Secondly, the criminals have switched from using the README.hta recovery manual to one called _README_.hta.

Furthermore, Cerber 5.0.1 is being distributed through the aid of RIG-V, which is an advanced version of an infamous exploit kit available on darknet resources. This malware distribution toolset leverages the RC4 cryptographic algorithm to conceal perpetrating payloads, so it allows the ransomware to fly under the radar of antivirus suites as it’s trespassing on a computer.

One more noteworthy thing that changed in Cerber Ransomware 5.0.1 and the v5.0 series in general is the size of targeted files. Whereas the infection used to encrypt data objects as long as they were larger than 1,024 bytes, the updated version only zeroes in on files whose size is 2,560 bytes or more. Consequently, smaller entries are no longer at risk. Also, the developers of this malady have expanded the range of IP addresses applicable for transmitting UDP packets to the Command and Control server. When operating on a computer, this ransomware collects system statistics and establishes network communication to send them to the C2 so that the attackers on the backend can stay on top of all infection details.

The rest of the attack workflow is virtually the same as before. Cerber 5.0.1 contaminates Windows machines through a scheme that involves a network of compromised websites. When a user visits one of these pages, the above-mentioned RIG-V exploit kit hosted on it will find software vulnerabilities on the PC and harness them to stealthily inject the ransomware. This process is imperceptible to the naked eye, so the would-be victims don’t have much chance to notice and prevent the compromise.

Once on board a computer, the ransom Trojan finds all personal files on the hard drive, removable media and network shares. Then, it encrypts the data using a strong crypto algorithm. It also scrambles filenames according to the following pattern: [10 chars].[4-char extension]. The string of 4 hexadecimal characters, which replaces the original extension, actually matches the MachineGuid registry value. This parameter is unique for every PC. The ransom note named _README_.hta and the new desktop background instruct the victim to navigate to the Cerber Decryptor page using the Tor Browser. The page displays the amount of the ransom that the infected user has to pay to get the private decryption key. Normally, it is 1 BTC, or about $730. That’s the “special price” offer, though, which expires in 5 days. Afterward, the victim will be bound to submit 2 BTC.

In order to save yourself the trouble of redeeming your own files for that much money, keep your operating system and installed software up to date and do not browse to dubious web pages. The sections below contain some helpful tips in regards to restoring the encrypted files.

Cerber 5.0.1 ransomware automated removal and data recovery

When faced with ransomware like Cerber 5.0.1, one of the best shortcuts in terms of removal is to use Combo Cleaner, a lightweight and incredibly effective application with PC security and optimization features under the hood. It detects and thoroughly deletes threats while giving you insights into the overall health of your computer.

This program’s protection power spans modules that forestall all known types of malware, including ransomware and browser hijackers, and take your online security to the next level by blocking phishing sites and other suspicious web pages. Follow these simple steps to eliminate the infection for good:

1. Download Combo Cleaner installer.

Download Cerber 5.0.1 remover

^{Combo Cleaner scans your PC with no strings attached, but you’ll have to buy its fully functional version to remove the threats it detects. The disk optimization tools that find large files and duplicates are free to use.}

2. Open the CCSetup.exe file to get started. Several subsequent screens will allow you to make initial customizations so that the program works exactly as you need from the get-go.

3. The installation will be followed by an update of malware signatures. Once this process is through, click the Start Scan button in the left-hand sidebar.

4. Combo Cleaner will then check system locations that are most often polluted by Windows malware. The first scan can take a while to finish.

5. Combo Cleaner will display a system tray notification as soon as the scan is over. Click the Resolve found threats button to view the results.

6. The scan summary shows the names and types of the detected threats as well as their statuses and locations. Click the Remove all threats button and follow further on-screen prompts to get rid of these items.

Data recovery toolkit to the rescue

Some strains of ransomware are known to delete the original files after the encryption routine has been completed. As hostile as this activity appears, it can play into your hands. There are applications designed to revive the information that was obliterated because of malfunctioning hardware or due to accidental removal. The tool called Stellar Data Recovery features this type of a capability and therefore it can be applied in ransom attack scenarios to at least get the most important files back. So use the app to get an idea of what data can be restored and let it do the recovery job. Here is a step-by-step walkthrough:

1. Download and install Stellar Data Recovery.

Download Stellar Data Recovery

2. Open the application, select the types of recoverable files to look for, and click Next.

3. Choose the areas you want the tool to recover from and click the Scan button.

4. Having scanned the specified locations, the program will display a notification about the total amount of recoverable data. Close the dialog and click the Recover button. This will hopefully help you get some of your valuable files back.

Cerber 5.0.1 ransomware manual removal and file recovery

Some ransomware strains terminate themselves after completing the encryption job on a computer, but some don’t. Furthermore, the Cerber 5.0.1 virus may prevent victims from using popular antimalware tools in order to stay on board for as long as possible. Under the circumstances, it may be necessary to utilize the Safe Mode with Networking or System Restore functionality.

Be advised that even after the ransomware is removed, files will still be encrypted and inaccessible. The malicious code cleanup part, however, is important because it keeps a relapse of the infection from occurring further on and eliminates all opportunistic malware.

Ways of non-ransom recovery of locked files

Cracking the crypto used by this ransom Trojan is more of a science fiction thing rather than an attainable prospect for the masses. This is why the troubleshooting in predicaments of this sort is a matter of two approaches: one is to pay the ransom, which isn’t an option for many victims; and the other is to apply instruments that take advantage of the ransomware’s possible weaknesses. If the latter is your pick, the advice below is a must-try.

Ransomware Prevention Tips

To avoid Cerber 5.0.1 ransomware and other file-encrypting infections in the future, follow several simple recommendations:

These techniques are certainly not a cure-all, but they will add an extra layer of ransomware protection to your security setup.

Revise your security status

Post-factum assessment of the accuracy component in malware removal scenarios is a great habit that prevents the comeback of harmful code or replication of its unattended fractions. Make sure you are good to go by running an additional safety checkup. Another benefit of using the antimalware tool is that it will keep ransomware threats from intruding on your computer further on.

Download Cerber 5.0.1 removal tool