Another version of Cerber 4 has surfaced. This time, the virus employs infected Word with macro files that jumpstart the virus. The new version is called Cerber 4.1.4. It’s the fifth version of the Cerber ransomware in the last month. Cerber continues to be one of the most dangerous viruses around. Victims are advised to take extra measures for protection.
| Name | Cerber 4.1.4 |
| File Extensions | random four character extension |
| Ransom | It varies from person to person. |
| Solution #1 | You can skip all steps and remove Cerber 4.1.4 with the help of an anti-malware tool. |
| Solution #2 | Cerber 4.1.4 ransomware can be removed manually, though it can be very hard for most home users. See the detailed tutorial below. |
| Distribution | Email Spam, exploit kits. |
Cerber 4.1.4 Ransomware Virus – Spreading the Infection
Cerber 4.1.4, like his older brethren, is distributed through email spam. The infectious emails contain ZIP archive attachments. The emails look like generic automated responses like “Re: Bank Account Information” or “Invoice.” The ZIP attachments of Cerber 4.1.4 contain Word files with macros. If opened, the Word documents will demand to enable the macro of the file.
Most legitimate automated answering system don’t use ZIP attachments. If you find them in your inbox, try not to open them, as it likely a trap.
Cerber 4.1.4 Ransomware virus – How Does It Work?
The Cerber 4.1.4 virus will encrypt your files with a strong algorithm, likely RSA or AES. Once the ransomware is inside your computer, it’s going to make some changes to the Windows settings. Some registry keys will be modified so Cerber 4.1.4 can imbed itself into the system’s boot protocol. In other words, Cerber will start along with the PC.
The virus file will be dropped in this Windows system directory:
%AppData%\winx64.exe
The file looks like the thousands of generic system files that look nonsensical to the average user.
Cerber 4.1.4 will scan the system for specific files. The locked files will have a random-looking 4 character extension. Cerber will likely target data that’s important to the user, like:
- Videos
- Pictures
- Documents
- Project files
People often value these files and will be more willing to negotiate with the crooks. Cerber 4.1.4 wants you to pay up the ransom fee for the decryption keys to your infected system.
Cerber 4.1.4 Virus – Quick Deletion and Protection From Ransomware
The huge amount Cerbers and Lockys alone makes ransomware protection a necessity. The threat of ransomware will only increase in the future. The ransomware racket is very profitable. At this point, new Cerber variants and copy-cats appear every day.
Cerber 4.1.4 can be removed by hand, or with the help of an anti-malware tool. The first option is explored in the guide below. However, this is a one-time solution that won’t protect your computer in the future. The second option is to get an anti-malware tool and remove Cerber 4.1.4 automatically.
Cerber 4.1.4 Ransomware Removal
For a faster solution, you can run a scan with an advanced malware removal tool and delete Cerber 4.1.4 completely with a few mouse clicks.
STEP I: Start the PC in Safe Mode with Network
This will isolate all files and objects created by the ransomware so they will be removed efficiently.
- 1) Hit WIN Key + R
- 2) A Run window will appear. In it, write “msconfig” and then press Enter
3) A Configuration box shall appear. In it Choose the tab named “Boot”
4) Mark “Safe Boot” option and then go to “Network” under it to tick it too
5) Apply -> OK
Or check our video guide – “How to start PC in Safe Mode with Networking”
STEP II: Show Hidden Files
- 1) Open My Computer/This PC
2) Windows 7
- – Click on “Organize” button
– Select “Folder and search options”
– Select the “View” tab
– Go under “Hidden files and folders” and mark “Show hidden files and folders” option
3) Windows 8/ 10
- – Open “View” tab
– Mark “Hidden items” option
4) Click “Apply” and then “OK” button
STEP III: Enter Windows Task Manager and Stop Malicious Processes
- 1) Hit the following key combination: CTRL+SHIFT+ESC
2) Get over to “Processes”
3) When you find suspicious process right click on it and select “Open File Location”
4) Go back to Task Manager and end the malicious process. Right click on it again and choose “End Process”
5) Next you should go folder where the malicious file is located and delete it
STEP IV: Remove Completely Cerber 4.1.4 Ransomware Using SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
SpyHunter anti-malware tool will diagnose all current threats on the computer. By purchasing the full version, you will be able to remove all malware threats instantly. Additional information about SpyHunter / Help to uninstall SpyHunter
STEP V: Repair Windows Registry
- 1) Again type simultaneously the Windows Button + R key combination
2) In the box, write “regedit”(without the inverted commas) and hit Enter
3) Type the CTRL+F and then write the malicious name in the search type field to locate the malicious executable
4) In case you have discovered registry keys and values related to the name, you should delete them, but be careful not to delete legitimate keys
Further help for Windows Registry repair
STEP VI: Recover Encrypted Files
- 1) Use present backups
2) Restore your personal files using File History
- – Hit WIN Key
– Type “restore your files” in the search box
– Select “Restore your files with File History”
– Choose a folder or type the name of the file in the search bar
- – Hit the “Restore” button
3) Using System Restore Point
- – Hit WIN Key
– Select “Open System Restore” and follow the steps
STEP VII: Preventive Security Measures
- 1) Enable and properly configure your Firewall.
2) Install and maintain reliable anti-malware software.
3) Secure your web browser.
4) Check regularly for available software updates and apply them.
5) Disable macros in Office documents.
6) Use strong passwords.
7) Don’t open attachments or click on links unless you’re certain they’re safe.
8) Backup regularly your data.
