Guide to Remove Hceem Ransomware

Hceem, a cryptovirus is the recent menacing threat that is rendering user’s files ciphered & demanding ransom in Bitcoins in order to retrieve the encrypted data.

Hceem Ransomware holds its origin from the kin of Ransomware Trojans, the Snatch Ransomware. This malicious file-encoding software marches into the system when a user clicks on suspicious e-mail attachments or malware-laden ads. Accidental downloads of app or software from treacherous websites & fake software updates can also invite Hceem Ransomware on the system.

Following the successful contamination of user’s system, the Ransomware begins to encrypt stored files. The victims will find the files renamed & appended with .hceem extension.

In addition to that, Hceem Ransomware creates a text file named containing the ransom note & leaves a copy of the same in every folder.

In case you find your documents are encrypted with .hceem extension, read below to find tips to remove hceem Ransomware from your system.

Threat Behavior of Hceem Ransomware

Hceem Ransomware is a reincarnated variant of the Snatch Ransomware family & invading a large number of systems across the world.

It infects a computer when the user visits torrent sites, adult content sites, malware loaded sites or clicks on tainted e-mail attachments, doubtful pop-ups, adverts or banners. Fake software updates & third party download sources can also be the source behind the Ransomware Installation without user’s consent.

Fake software updaters are one of the common methods implemented by the threat actors to propagate malware infection. Fake updates either exploit the obsolete software or download/install other malware on to the system & activate paid software for free. By opting for free software updates, users typically end up vitiating their systems with malware like Hceem Virus.

Once the system has been compromised, Hceem Ransomware runs a complete scan of the drive to search for targeted file types. On finding the preferred file types, Hceem encrypts them & affixes .hceem extension to them. The victim will not be able to access the encoded files.

Here is a list of file extensions encrypted by Hceem Crypto-virus:

.sql, .mp4, .rar, .m4a, .avi, .wmv, .txt, .css, .png, .jpeg, .jpg, .pptm, .ppt, .xlsb, .xlsm, .xlsx, .xls, .docm, .doc, .map, .mov, .bar, .litemod, .asset, .raw, .orf, .dcr, .big, .wallet, .xxx, .desc, .m3u, .flv

Hceem Ransomware Ransom Note

An attempt to access the files will be followed by a ransom note that will cover the system screen. The Ransom Note is basically a text file named as – RESTORE_HCEEM_DATA.txt. It contains encryption details & prompts the victims to visit the Ransomware Website.

The victim is further asked to install Tor Browser (https://www.torproject.org) in order to visit the website. In case, victim is finding it arduous to visit the website, they may reach out the hackers for help on – newrecoverybot@pm.me.

The main motive behind encrypting the files is to extort money from the victims in Bitcoins in order to restore their ciphered files.

The ransom Note for Hceem Ransomware reads as follows:

Attention!

Do not rename the ciphered files
Do not try to decrypt your data of the third-party software, it can cause constant data loss
You do not joke with files

To restore your files visit *********** website. This website is safe
If this website is not available use reserve website ************* in a TOR network. This website is safe. For visit of this website it is necessary to install Tor browser (https://www.torproject.org)

Your login: xxxx
Your password: xxxx
Your BTC address: xxxx

If all websites are not available write to us on email of newrecoverybot@pm.me
You keep this information in secret

Cyber Threats & invasion of Ransomware, Trojans & Browser Hijackers is common now-a-days. Therefore, computer users need to stay vigilant about the content they click on & the sites they visit. They should develop secure browsing habits & take repressive measures to keep their systems away from such threats.

Hceem Ransomware – Distribution Tactics

The cybercriminals use various strategies for malware distribution which include –

1. Software Bundling: Software bundling is the process in which a malicious program is distributed with other free software, to get an unnoticed entry into your computer system. When a user installs a free application, the malicious programs gains a front door entry with the free application, the user has downloaded. Thus, it is a good idea to keep an eye on the installation screens while installing these free applications.
2. Infected Storage Devices: Your system can also get infected by using removable media such as USB hard drives and jump drives without scanning them with an anti-virus.
3. Spam Emails – Spamming is the most economic and common method used for the distribution of such malware. The targeted users get genuine looking emails which contain .doc, .txt, and other similar attachments. These attachments can be named as anything which can grab the user’s attention and triggers him/her to open the attachment. As soon as the user opens this attachment, the malware infects the user’s computer system.
4. Malicious Websites or Malevolent Advertisements: The malicious websites are the ones which are created just for promoting the malware infections. Such websites include but are not limited to porn sites, torrent sites and other free downloading platforms. By visiting such websites, the adware infects the user’s computer without permission. Fake advertisements and updates like Flash player and windows updates which ask the user to update to the latest version are a few examples. When the users click on such links, their computer system gets infected. That is why, it is highly recommended to resist clicking on such links. Also avoid clicking on advertisements offering free stuff such as Win an iPhones, cars or free overseas trips etc.

Threat Summary

Name: Hceem

Targeted Operating System: Windows

Category: Ransomware

Symptoms: User’s files are inaccessible & encrypted with .hceem extension. A ransom note named – RESTORE_HCEEM_DATA.txt demanding a ransom in bitcoin(s) prompts on the screen.

How to Remove Hceem Ransomware from my System

STEP A: Remove the services installed by Hceem Ransomware from the System using Safe mode with Command Prompt

STEP B: Restore your system files and settings

Tips to prevent your computer system from getting infected –

1. Keeping the Operating System Updated- In order to remain protected and avoid such infections, it is recommended to keep your Operating System updated by enabling the automatic update on your system. The systems with outdated or older versions of Operating System become an easy target for the attackers.
2. Resist clicking on spam emails – One of the major techniques used for malware distribution is forwarding spam emails to the user. The system gets infected as soon as the user clicks on the attachment. These mails appear to be genuine, so be aware and resist falling for these tricks.
3. Keep an eye on third party installations- It is quite important that you take due care while installing any third party applications for they are major source of such infections. Such malware programs come bundled with the free applications thereby requiring the user to remain cautious.
4. Regular periodical backup- In order to keep your data and files safe, it is recommended to take regular back up of all your data and files either on an external drive or cloud.
5. Use Anti-Virus Protection- We strongly recommend the use of antivirus protection/internet security in your PC like Sohpos and Hitman Pro so that it remains safe.
6. Enable the Ad Blocker/Popup Blocker in your browser- Enabling the popup blocker/ ad blocker in your chosen browser will help you to stay protected from annoying adware.

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