Do you know what Caleb Ransomware is?
Caleb Ransomware is one of those ransomware programs that come from big malware families. It means that we can look back on previous infections, and it allows us to more or less foresee what this infection is capable of. Either way, ransomware programs just want to get their hands on your money, and they try to push you into paying for a decryption key that might not even work. Thus, remove Caleb Ransomware from your system today, and then protect your computer from similar intruders in the future.
According to our research, Caleb Ransomware is another variation of the previously released Phobos Ransomware. Our research team says that the only thing that changed from the previous version is the extension that gets attached to the filenames after encryption. It means that the distribution method and the things this infection does are practically the same even if the “version” is different.
What does that mean? It means that it is possible to avoid getting infected with Caleb Ransomware, but we often fail to notice delicate signals that tell us about the potential ransomware infection. The most common ransomware distribution method is spam email. We receive spam every single day, and sometimes we might not think deep about it.
For example, if you open multiple emails at work every day, you might not check the attachments carefully. It is easy to think that every single file you receive is work-related. Not to mention that spam emails often look like regular messages between companies or even individual mails sent by designers or freelancers. However, you always need to stop and think whether you were supposed to receive this specific file. Not to mention that you can also scan the downloaded files with a security tool of your choice.
Caleb Ransomware screenshot
Scroll down for full removal instructions
In fact, it could be a good habit for you. If you scan all the files you download with a security tool, you will be able to avoid not only Caleb Ransomware, but a number of other unwanted applications, too. We just need to educate ourselves about potential security threats, and it would surely increase our overall cybersecurity. Of course, it is always a good idea to invest in a powerful security tool that can protect our systems from various threats, but if we do not do anything ourselves, a security tool will help no one.
So, what happens to our system when Caleb Ransomware enters it? This infection drops a copy of itself in the Startup folder. It means that the infection will load each time you turn on your computer. Thus, if you transfer healthy files into your system, this ransomware will encrypt them again. As mentioned, all the affected files will receive additional extension. The extension comes with an infection ID and the email address you are supposed to use to contact these criminals. Needless to say, the ID number will differ from computer to computer, and it is also possible for Caleb Ransomware to employ different email address to collect ransom requests.
Aside from that, Caleb Ransomware also displays a ransom note in a TXT format file. The ransom note is very short:
!!!All of your files are encrypted!!!
To decrypt them send e-mail to this address: adagekeys@qq.com
Please note that this is the email we had in our sample, and the email address may be different for you. Nevertheless, it doesn’t mean that you should contact these criminals because there is no guarantee they would issue the decryption key even if you pay the ransom. Since Caleb Ransomware is practically identical to Phobos Ransomware, check for a public decryption tool.
Of course, the best way to restore your files is to remove Caleb Ransomware and all the encrypted data for good, and then transfer healthy copies back into your hard drive. This method works when you have a file backup somewhere (like in an external hard drive or cloud storage). If that is not the case, you should address a professional technician for other file recovery options.
Protect yourself from the likes of Caleb Ransomware by employing caution when you deal with new unfamiliar content. As mentioned, consider employing a licensed security tool, too.
How to Remove Caleb Ransomware
- Delete unfamiliar files from Desktop.
- Delete unfamiliar files from the Downloads folder.
- Press Win+R and type %TEMP%. Click OK.
- Remove the most recent files from the directory.
- Press Win+E and paste %APPDATA%\Microsoft\Windows\Start Menu\Programs\Startup into the address bar.
- Remove random name files from the folder.
- Scan your computer with SpyHunter.
In non-techie terms:
Although there is nothing unique about Caleb Ransomware, it doesn’t mean we can take it lightly. This dangerous infection can easily lock up your files, and then leave you hanging, telling you to contact the criminals behind it to transfer the ransom payment. Please do not do as this infection says. Use a powerful security tool to remove Caleb Ransomware from your system and then learn more about ransomware and how to avoid it.