How to remove Bert Ransomware and decrypt .encryptedbybert files

What is Bert Ransomware

Bert Ransomware is a strain of malicious software designed to encrypt files on a victim’s computer, rendering them inaccessible without a decryption key. This type of ransomware appends the file extension .encryptedbybert to each of the affected files, altering their original filenames into a unique encrypted format. The encryption process employed by Bert is typically quite robust, often using advanced algorithms that make decryption without the proper key virtually impossible. Upon encrypting the files, Bert leaves a ransom note, titled .note.txt, in each directory containing encrypted files. This note serves as a communication tool from the attackers, detailing the compromised nature of the victim’s files and providing instructions for contacting the cybercriminals with the intent of obtaining the decryption key. The attackers often exhort victims to reach out via specified communication methods, emphasizing that payment is necessary to recover access to their data.

Unfortunately, no known decryption tools currently exist for files encrypted by Bert Ransomware, as this particular strain does not have documented weaknesses that researchers can exploit. Consequently, decrypting .encryptedbybert files without cooperating with the attackers is an arduous and often unfeasible task, which underscores the importance of preventative measures like regular data backups and robust cybersecurity practices. Victims should remain cautious of third-party services promising decryption, as these can either be ineffective or additional scams. In the face of a ransomware infection, the focus should be on removing the malware from the system to prevent further encryption and seeking alternate data recovery methods, such as restoring from backups or using legitimate data recovery tools. It’s imperative for users to report such incidences to authorities to aid in broader efforts to curb ransomware proliferation.

How Bert Ransomware infects computers

Bert Ransomware infiltrates computers primarily through deceptive tactics, exploiting users’ trust and curiosity. Cybercriminals often distribute this malware via malicious email attachments or links, disguised as legitimate documents such as Office files or PDFs. These emails typically masquerade as urgent messages from trusted entities, prompting victims to open the attachments or click on embedded links. Once activated, the ransomware encrypts files, appending the “.encryptedbybert” extension, and demands a ransom for decryption. Additionally, Bert Ransomware can spread through compromised websites, malicious ads, and bundled software downloads, particularly from dubious sources. Users are advised to exercise caution with unexpected emails and downloads, maintain updated security software, and implement regular data backups to mitigate the risk of infection.

1. Download Bert Ransomware Removal Tool
2. Get decryption tool for .encryptedbybert 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 Bert Ransomware

Bert Ransomware files:


.note.txt
{randomname}.exe


Bert Ransomware registry keys:

no information

How to decrypt and restore .encryptedbybert files

Use automated decryptors

Download Kaspersky RakhniDecryptor

Use the following tool from Kaspersky called Rakhni Decryptor, that can decrypt .encryptedbybert 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 .encryptedbybert 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 Bert 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 .encryptedbybert 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 Bert 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. Bert 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