I wrote this article to help you remove Cerber 4.1.3 Ransomware. This Cerber 4.1.3 Ransomware removal guide works for all Windows versions.

Ransomware, thought to have originated in Russia in the end of 20th century, is considered to be the absolute worst kind of cyber infection, which we are forced to deal with nowadays. This is quite the title but this particular malware family totally deserves its reputation. All ransomware pieces have the same single goal – money. Your money. And these parasites have ways to get to them. From here, we can point out a few different types of ransomware, based on the tactic they use to extort you.

During its early stages, the types were two: file-encrypting and screen-locking. The first type locks your data, making it inaccessible to you and the second type lockс your screen so you are unable to use your entire system. However, both types need the same thing from you in return from unlocking your files/screen. This is the ransom – the amount of money you are asked to pay. Currently, we can add two more ransomware types – the mobile-locking (which locks the screen of your phone) and government agency exploited type (used for punishing cyber criminals and making them pay fines).

Now, more about the Cerber 4.1.3 ransomware, which you are obviously struggling with. It belongs to the file-encrypting type as it encrypts valuable data of yours and makes it unusable. But how does it does that? First requited step – Infiltration. The ways for the ransomware to get in your system are many and different. However, one of the most popular techniques is with the help of a Trojan horse. The two parasites are often included in spam email attachments and when you open one, the Trojan finds a vulnerability in your computer and sneaks the ransomware through it. Another entering method is to get Cerber as a drive-by download. If you visit shady pages or click on suspicious ads and commercials the chances of getting infected this way rise. Of course, other ways of infiltration also exist so you must not restrain yourself for keeping an eye only for the above mentioned.

The second step is the scan Cerber performs once in your system. It searches all your drives and disks to find the files which you have been using the most, hence the files which are most important and valuable to you.

The third step is the actual file locking part. Cerber starts encrypting all of your data using a very complicated double-component key – one public and one private. Usually, the public one is made available to you right away. But for recovering your files you need the private one. The one you are supposed to pay for.

The fourth and last step of the ransomware come only when all of the files in its blacklist have been locked. Only then, Cerber drops the ransom note. This is a message, which usually starts with “all of your files have been encrypted” and then continues with detailed payment instruction on how to receive the said private key.

So, do you think paying these crooks is a good idea? No! It is the worst possible option, actually. You have zero guarantees whatsoever that the cybercriminal will give you the key after you have paid. You can never be sure if they will keep their end on the deal. In many, many cases, they don’t. Before even consider paying, try all the other options available. You can consult with an expert in the field who may be able to help you. Or other professionals. You will have to pay them anyway but at least you will know who you are paying and you won`t be sponsoring some crooks` illegitimate ransomware business. Another option is to try a removal guide like the one we have prepared for you. It is an easy-to-follow one with detailed instructions and completely free. Do not give the crooks even a cent from your money as you may end up double-crossed in the end.

How to prevent another ransomware infection?

You should know that catching a parasite before having infected you is much better and easier than dealing with it when it has locked your files. First, you should, by all means, restrain yourself from potential virus sources and stick to legitimate verified websites. Second and most important – always back up your valuable data. Last but not least, consider purchasing a reliable anti-malware program to help you for a better future protection.

Cerber 4.1.3 Ransomware Uninstall

Method 1: Restore your encrypted files using ShadowExplorer
Usually, Cerber 4.1.3 Ransomware deletes all shadow copies, stored in your computer. Luckily, the ransomware is not always able to delete the shadow copies. So your first try should be restoring the original files from shadow copies.

1. Download ShadowExplorer from this link: http://www.shadowexplorer.com/downloads.html.
2. Install ShadowExplorer
3. Open ShadowExplorer and select C: drive on the left panel
4. Choose at least a month ago date from the date field
5. Navigate to the folder with encrypted files
6. Right-click on the encrypted file
7. Select “Export” and choose a destination for the original file

Method 2: Restore your encrypted files by using System Restore

1. Go to Start –> All programs –> Accessories –> System tools –> System restore
2. Click “Next“
3. Choose a restore point, at least a month ago
4. Click “Next“
5. Choose Disk C: (should be selected by default)
6. Click “Next“. Wait for a few minutes and the restore should be done.

Method 3: Restore your files using File Recovery Software
If none of the above method works, you should try to recover encrypted files by using File Recovery Software. Since Cerber 4.1.3 Ransomware first makes a copy of the original file, then encrypts it and deletes the original one, you can successfully restore the original, using a File Recovery Software. Here are a few free File Recovery Software programs:

1. Recuva
2. Puran File Recovery
3. Disk Drill
4. Glary Undelete