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  • Active
  • Severity: High
  • Ransomware
  • Windows
  • Verified · Jul 2016

How to remove CTB-Faker ransomware virus

A step-by-step removal guide for affected devices. Follow the verified procedure below — most readers complete it in under 10 minutes.

Julie Splinters · Anti-malware specialist

What dangers lie behind CTB-Faker virus?

While some hackers try to create invincible file-encrypting viruses, others, for example, the creators of CTB-Faker virus, unsuccessfully try to imitate the genius of ransomware. It seems that the creators are a bunch of amateur hackers since the demanded money is quite small – only $50. In addition, decoding the files should not be a burden. If your computer was targeted by the virus as well, find out how to perform proper CTB-Faker removal. One of the methods to do that is to install FortectIntego.

After analyzing the virus, it seems that the cyber criminals favor the big ransomware – CTB Locker. While the latter is a work of experienced hackers, the current virus still has a long way to go. As a matter of fact, this malware operates as a Winrar SFX file. After activation, it enfolds various VBS files and executables into the C:\ProgramData folder. One of the main distinctive signs of this ransomware is that it triggers multiple fake system error messages. Interestingly, the virus contains a WinRar folder with the indication on multiple file extensions. CTB Faker then finds the matching file formats, e.g., .doc, .png, .jpg, and then transfers them into the folder which is locked with a certain password.

The picture showing CTB Faker virus

When this operation is complete, it will initiate the reboot of the operating system. Consequently, the victims are astonished after seeing the ransom note. It informs that the payment should be remitted within seven days. After the indicated period expires, the sum doubles. What is more, the crooks provide a Bitcoin address – 1NgrUc748vG5HerFoK3Tkkb1bHjS7T2w5J. When the money is transferred, the victims are expected to contact the hackers via miley@openmailbox.org to receive the decryption key. In addition, the infected users will have to enter the password into the CTB-Faker Decryptor window. If the password is correct, the .zip file will be extracted back into your hard drive. Though 50 USD does not seem as big money, you should not make the transaction.

When does the virus infect systems?

Besides thinking about how to recover the files, the topic how this virus spreads from a computer to a computer might be of interest as well. While the major ransomware viruses tend to employ elaborate persuasive spam emails and scams to infect users, CTB-Faker malware prefers dispersing via pornographic websites and other domains containing the adult content. Since these websites share popularity among a wide range of Internet users, it is not surprising that the bigger population of the infected users happen to be male users.

Specifically, the virus travels via fake profiles which possess a password and leads to a password-protected striptease video. As a result, without having any ominous feelings, a user clicks on the link, downloads a .zip file. Afterward, it becomes a matter of time, until CTB-Faker ransomware completes its menacing mission. In any case, the best advice to escape this threat is to avoid visiting similar domains. Alternatively, it is obligatory to have a reliable anti-spyware program which detects similar malicious files before they invade the system. Finally, let us move on CTB-Faker removal process.

Can I efficiently remove CTB-Faker?

The previously mentioned malware removal utility does not only come in handy when it comes to blocking the malware, but it also guarantees that the ransomware is removed completely. For it to eliminate the threat, you need to have the newest version of FortectIntego or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes. If you encounter problems initiating or completing CTB-Faker removal because your anti-virus has been shut down or similar problems, use the recovery instructions delivered below on this page. After the ransomware is removed, you can concentrate on the recovery of your locked data. Luckily, IT specialists have already released the decryption key. Lastly, do not forget that cautiousness is a significant virtue which helps you to escape this kind of threats as well.

Did this guide help?

4 comments

  1. BillyBan

    Nice try, hackers!

  2. Michelle

    At least, we can take a small break.

  3. Anthony

    So now the bad guys creating the ransomware are the cool ones?

  4. Alan

    Maybe I should give it a try as well.:)

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