How to remove CmbLabs Ransomware and decrypt .cmblabs files

What is CmbLabs Ransomware

CmbLabs Ransomware is a particularly pernicious strain of malware designed to encrypt user data, rendering files inaccessible until a ransom is paid to the cyber criminals responsible. It appends the extension .cmblabs to each file it encrypts, turning recognizable file names like 1.jpg into 1.jpg.cmblabs. This not only locks the user out of their own data but also serves as a clear signal of the ransomware’s presence. Using a sophisticated cryptographic algorithm, often based on asymmetric encryption, CmbLabs secures the files in a way that makes them nearly impossible to decrypt without a unique key, which the attackers promise to provide in exchange for payment. Once the encryption process is complete, the ransomware generates a ransom note titled DECRYPT_INFO.hta, as well as a text file named DECRYPT_INFO.txt. These notes are usually found on the desktop or within affected directories and inform victims of the data compromise, providing instructions on how to make the ransom payment. They often include a warning against using third-party decryption tools, claiming that such attempts may lead to permanent data loss.

Currently, there are no publicly available decryption tools for CmbLabs Ransomware, making recovery of affected files exceptionally difficult without the attackers’ cooperation, which is not guaranteed even after payment. The only reliable method to regain access to .cmblabs files is restoring them from a backup that was created before the infection occurred. Cybersecurity experts strongly advise against paying the ransom, as it not only supports criminal activity but also does not ensure the recovery of encrypted files. Instead, victims are encouraged to report the incident to authorities and consult cybersecurity professionals for assistance in removing the ransomware. Regularly backing up data to multiple secure locations and maintaining updated anti-virus software are crucial preventive measures to protect against future ransomware infections. For those already victimized, the immediate isolation of infected devices, combined with thorough network checks for further breaches, could help mitigate additional damage.

How CmbLabs Ransomware infects computers

CmbLabs Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive methods such as phishing emails, malicious attachments, and compromised websites. Cybercriminals often disguise the ransomware payload as legitimate files or links, enticing users to click or download them. Once the file is opened, the malware executes and begins encrypting data on the system, appending a “.cmblabs” extension to the affected files. In addition to email and web-based tactics, CmbLabs can also spread through drive-by downloads, which occur when users visit infected websites that automatically download the ransomware without user interaction. Furthermore, the ransomware may exploit vulnerabilities in outdated software, emphasizing the importance of maintaining up-to-date systems and employing robust cybersecurity measures. To prevent infection, users should exercise caution with unsolicited emails, avoid downloading from untrusted sources, and ensure their antivirus software is active and regularly updated.

1. Download CmbLabs Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .cmblabs files
3. Recover encrypted files with Stellar Data Recovery Professional
4. Restore encrypted files with Windows Previous Versions
5. Restore files with Shadow Explorer
6. How to protect from threats like CmbLabs Ransomware

CmbLabs Ransomware files:


DECRYPT_INFO.hta
{randomname}.exe


CmbLabs Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .cmblabs files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .cmblabs files. Download it here:

Download RakhniDecryptor

There is no purpose to pay the ransom because there is no guarantee you will receive the key, but you will put your bank credentials at risk.

Dr.Web Rescue Pack

Famous antivirus vendor Dr. Web provides free decryption service for the owners of its products: Dr.Web Security Space or Dr.Web Enterprise Security Suite. Other users can ask for help in the decryption of .cmblabs files by uploading samples to Dr. Web Ransomware Decryption Service. Analyzing files will be performed free of charge and if files are decryptable, all you need to do is purchase a 2-year license of Dr.Web Security Space worth $120 or less. Otherwise, you don’t have to pay.

If you are infected with CmbLabs Ransomware and removed from your computer, you can try to decrypt your files. Antivirus vendors and individuals create free decryptors for some crypto-lockers. To attempt to decrypt them manually, you can do the following:

Use Stellar Data Recovery Professional to restore .cmblabs files

1. Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional.
2. Click Recover Data button.
3. Select the type of files you want to restore and click Next button.
4. Choose the location where you would like to restore files from and click Scan button.
5. Preview found files, choose ones you will restore and click Recover.

Download Stellar Data Recovery Professional

Using Windows Previous Versions option:

1. Right-click on infected file and choose Properties.
2. Select Previous Versions tab.
3. Choose a particular version of the file and click Copy.
4. To restore the selected file and replace the existing one, click on the Restore button.
5. In case there are no items in the list, choose an alternative method.

Using Shadow Explorer:

1. Download Shadow Explorer program.
2. Run it, and you will see a screen listing of all the drives and the dates that shadow copy was created.
3. Select the drive and date that you want to restore from.
4. Right-click on a folder name and select Export.
5. In case there are no other dates in the list, choose an alternative method.

If you are using Dropbox:

1. Login to the Dropbox website and go to the folder that contains encrypted files.
2. Right-click on the encrypted file and select Previous Versions.
3. Select the version of the file you wish to restore and click on the Restore button.

How to protect computer from viruses, like CmbLabs Ransomware, in future

1. Get special anti-ransomware software

Use ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

Famous antivirus brand ZoneAlarm by Check Point released a comprehensive tool, that will help you with active anti-ransomware protection, as an additional shield to your current protection. The tool provides Zero-Day protection against ransomware and allows you to recover files. ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware is compatible with all other antiviruses, firewalls, and security software except ZoneAlarm Extreme (already shipped with ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware) or Check Point Endpoint products. The killer features of this application are: automatic file recovery, overwrite protection that instantly and automatically recovers any encrypted files, file protection that detects and blocks even unknown encryptors.

Download ZoneAlarm Anti-Ransomware

2. Back up your files

As an additional way to save your files, we recommend online backup. Local storage, such as hard drives, SSDs, flash drives, or remote network storage can be instantly infected by the virus once plugged in or connected to. CmbLabs Ransomware uses some techniques to exploit this. One of the best services and programs for easy automatic online backup is iDrive. It has the most profitable terms and a simple interface. You can read more about iDrive cloud backup and storage here.

3. Do not open spam e-mails and protect your mailbox

Malicious attachments to spam or phishing e-mails are the most popular method of ransomware distribution. Using spam filters and creating anti-spam rules is good practice. One of the world leaders in anti-spam protection is MailWasher Pro. It works with various desktop applications and provides a very high level of anti-spam protection.

Download MailWasher Pro