What is Cerber ransomware? How to prevent it from entering?
Did you know that there exist affiliate program for the cyber-criminals? Yes, there is. It is called Cerber ransomware. This malware is considered to be the most active one and it attacks by infecting the files of the user. In return for the files, the victim is asked to pay the ransom.
The harmful code gets into the system through the easiest medium – email. The attacker sends a Microsoft Office file in the attachment. When the file gets downloaded it encrypts the RC4 and RSA algorithms and changes their extensions to.cerber or any other name if the attack is fresh.
Who is the target audience and where does it come from?
The hacker of this software can target anyone. However, if you belong to countries like Ukraine, Tajikistan, Moldova, and many other like these then the code will deactivate itself.
The pc security software experts have found its roots in the dark web of Russia. In the alleys of the dark world, it can be easily bought at the 40% ransom profit to be paid to the keeper.
How can you recognize it?
Here is a list of a few things noted by the computer security software developers that are a clear sign of system getting infected by the ransomware,
- The wallpaper will change into a display note
- There will be three ransom notes in the system where the files have been encrypted
- The structure of the notes will guide you to the steps to pay the extortion money
- The amount will increase as the time will pass by
- Depending on the cryptocurrency, the amount may increase to several thousand
- Some voice notes have also been discovered which keep on repeating that your data has been encrypted
How can it be removed?
The advance pc protect technology can detect and notify the presence of the malware in the system. Some of the anti-malware software programs are even capable of completely destroying the malicious code. However, the files cannot be recovered as there is not Cerber decryptor.
How to prevent the attack?
The following ways can prevent the entry of the malicious code,
- Install the best pc protector software
- Run a regular scan and update the software as well as system applications
- Follow the good surfing practices
- Do not take risks with the suspicious emails
Final Say
It could be hard to prevent the files from the encryption if the malware has made to the system. The negative aspect of it is, it can work even when the system is off so even if delete the malevolent script using computer security software, you most certainly cannot recover the files. Therefore, it is best to stay alert.