How to remove Cerber 4.1.6 ransomware virus

Cerber ransomware 4.1.6 – another hardly outstanding version of the notorious virus

Cerber 4.1.6 virus emerged into the public view on November 22, 2016, and so far, it is the latest version of the noxious Cerber ransomware. It seems that authors of this ransomware project have already found an intricate and insoluble formula of virus source code that allows to encrypt files securely and prevent malware analysts from creating a retrospective software that could restore corrupted files.

Besides, it appears that criminals now concentrate on the fourth version of the virus; lately, they haven’t released any significantly improved versions of this particular malware except slightly altered versions of Cerber 4. Upon a successful infiltration into a target computer, ransomware starts delving through the deepest system folders, and step by step, it arises and clearly shows its existence.

Such system scanning aims to encrypt all victim’s personal files. The virus thoroughly analyzes files stored in victim’s folders and encodes them with a combination of RSA and RC4 algorithms, and completely distorts filenames to make them unrecognizable.

Firstly it replaces the original filename with a set of 10 random characters and then appends a unique four-digit file extension instead of the original one. Following successful encryption, Cerber 4.1.6 malware leaves ransom notes dubbed README.hta, which open CERBER RANSOMWARE – Instructions HTML application via Internet Explorer.

These notes provide a detailed explanation of the attack and present instructions on how to decrypt personal files. Just like the previous versions of this hideous virus, the 4.1.6 version focuses on blackmail and money extortion, so it threatens the victim by saying that there is no other way to recover encrypted files except for paying the ransom.

We are afraid that this is partly true – files can be entirely recovered either by paying the ransom (not recommended) or by using a backup. In some cases, malware can encrypt data backups, especially if they’re plugged into the compromised PC at the time of the attack.

Cerber commands the victim to access a “personal page” via one of the links presented in the .hta file. These links can be easily reached via the Tor network, whereas regular web browsers might try to stop you from entering them.

The personal page firstly asks the victim to “confirm he is a human and not a robot” by completing a short task and then reroutes the user to a site that suggests buying “Cerber Decryptor.” According to the information provided on the payment site, the victim can buy the decryptor for a special price within five days from the attack date or pay a higher price later on.

Finally, the virus replaces the desktop picture of random pixels and a shortened version of the ransom note text. Of course, just like the previous versions of ransomware, the 4.1.6 version plays a .vbs audio file that annoyingly repeats the same lines out loud: “Your documents, photos, databases, and other important files have been encrypted!”

If this virus has attacked your PC, then its removal is now a top priority task that you should take care of ASAP. Please use a powerful anti-malware program and do not try to delete the virus by yourself because it is a very sophisticated computer program. To remove Cerber 4.1.6 malware, we strongly recommend using an anti-malware program like SpyHunterCombo Cleaner. Additionally, experts recommend using FortectIntego afterward for the best results.

Peculiarities of ransomware distribution

The virus is mainly distributed along with fake software updates, malvertising, email spam, and of course, exploit kits. Email spam is the most basic malware distribution method that is based on scrupulously crafted misleading emails that allegedly come from reputable organizations or companies.

Typically, such letters claim to be delivering important documents to victims; however, concealed email attachments actually carry malware's payload. Therefore, you should never open emails coming from unknown sources or simply from those that weren’t supposed to send you anything.

Reports show that Cerber is still actively distributed via exploit kits, and at the moment, Neutrino and RIG exploit kits are employed. Ransomware authors employ a vast number of other ransomware distribution techniques, and it can be hard to reckon with all of them correctly.

For example, the latest ransomware distribution technique is based on Facebook spam messages. Therefore, we strongly recommend you to protect the system with anti-malware software and take other preventive measures to protect your computer and personal files from malware attacks.

Remove Cerber 4.1.6 ransomware virus from the system

It is very important to remove Cerber 4.1.6 virus along with other malware at once. Recent reports show that Cerber has started to connect all compromised computers into a botnet that is used to carry out DDoS attacks.

This is highly malicious activity, and you should do everything to prevent offenders from turning your PC into a zombie. Therefore, employ a powerful malware removal tool to entirely complete Cerber 4.1.6 removal and wipe out all malicious files and elements from the computer system.

If you do not have an anti-malware software yet, download and install one using the instructions below. You must reboot your PC in an indicated mode as explained below, or the virus might impede your attempts to clean up the computer system.