How to remove Crbr Encryptor ransomware virus

Crbr Encryptor – the new name of Cerber ransomware

Crbr Encryptor is a slightly modified and renamed version of the famous Cerber virus.^[1] This crypto-malware^[2] employs a combination of the RSA-512 and RC4 encryption algorithm to lock files on the targeted computer. It also appends a new file extension with four random characters, for instance, .a82d or .fb4o3.

Crbr Encryptor virus uses traditional distribution methods. However, it might also install itself on the computer without user’s participation. The malicious program has a self-installation feature which makes it extremely dangerous.

After the infiltration, malware scans the system and looks for the targeted files. However, Crbr Encryptor might also identify which files a victim uses the most. Obviously, these documents or records will be definitely locked with a strong cipher.

The virus still seems to be using the same method of encryption to render files unreadable but appends new .a82d extensions to indicate the already processed content. The elimination of these extensions and the recovery of files still cost victims 0,5 Bitcoin (around 1257 USD), and they are demanded to make the transaction via rebranded TOR payment site.

Following data encryption, Crbr Encryptor ransomware delivers a pop-up window that includes a threatening message from cyber criminals. Malware also drops two new files:

• _R_E_A_D___T_H_I_S___{RAND}_.hta,
• _R_E_A_D___T_H_I_S___{RAND}_.txt.

In these files cyber criminals introduce the victim to his/her current situation and explain how the encrypted data can be recovered. The virus also does the same by replacing infected computer’s desktop picture with a version of a ransom note as well.

Here you can read through the ransom note yourself: 

Hi, I'am CRBR ENCRYPTOR 😉
—–
YOUR DOCUMENTS, PHOTOS, DATABASES AND OTHER IMPORTANT FILES HAVE BEEN ENCRYPTED!
—–
The only way to decrypt your files is to receive the private key and decryption program.
To receive the private key and decryption program go to any decrypted folder,
inside there is the special file (*_R_E_A_D___T_H_I_S_*) with complete instructions
how to decrypt your files.
If you cannot find any (*_R_E_A_D___T_H_I_S_*) file at your PC, follow the instructions below:
—–
1. Download “Tor Browser” from https://www.torproject.org/ and install it.
2. In the “Tor Browser” open your personal page here:
http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.onion/[victim_id]
Note! This page is available via “Tor Browser” only.
—–
Also you can use temporary addresses on your personal page without using “Tor Browser”.
—–
1. http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.1t2jhk.top/[victim_id]
2. http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.1e6ly3.top/[victim_id]
3. http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.1ewuh5.top/[victim_id]
4. http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.15ezkm.top/[victim_id]
5. http://xpcx6erilkjced3j.16umxg.top/[victim_id]
—–
Note! These are temporary addresses! They will be available for a limited amount of time!

When the victims enter the indicated sites, they are urged to pay now and are threatened that if they fail to make the payment within 5 days, the ransom will double. Don’t feel threatened by such claims and stick to the safest option – Crbr Encryptor removal.

Some users panic when they find the mentioned files on their computers and to get rid of them. Nevertheless, this will not do your PC any good. In fact, it may even corrupt your files, thus, to remove Crbr Encryptor from the computer, you must decontaminate the virus executable first. But don’t do it manually either. Employ FortectIntego or similar antivirus software to scan your system.

Ransomware distribution is based on exploit kits and malspam

Crbr Encryptor has undergone changes in its distribution as well. Now, hackers rely on two main vectors to spread the virus around: MagnitudeEK exploit kit ^[3] and malicious Spam campaigns.

First technique allows Cerber to exploit outdated, unsupported and overall vulnerable software and inject malicious components on victims PCs when they visit poor reputation websites hosting such exploit kits.

Virus delivery via malicious spam campaigns is self-explanatory. All ransomware use this method of distribution and it always proves successful as hackers think of new techniques to trick victims into opening infected email attachments.

This time, perpetrators pretend to deliver a message from Microsoft Security Team and inform users about suspicious sign-in activity on user’s Microsoft account. As soon as user downloads the attached instruction sheet, they unleash Crbr Encryptor, and data encryption may begin.

The most problems Cerber causes in the United States;^[4] however, countries, such as Germany, Portugal, Spain, Japan,^[5] Australia and many others are in the malware’s target field as well. Thus, users should be aware of the huge possibility to encounter this dangerous cyber threat.

Crbr Encryptor removal guide

Remove Crbr Encryptor virus carefully because behind its new name it is the same malicious Cerber virus which will try to damage your computer as much as possible. To eliminate it safely, you should employ reputable software such as FortectIntego or SpyHunterCombo Cleaner.

As we’ve mentioned, you should NOT try to perform Crbr Encryptor removal manually. The only time you may have to employ your own computer skills is when you will have to disable some of the malicious virus functionalities if they block your antivirus from running the system scan.

Follow instructions below to perform Crbr Encryptor decontamination safely.