Remove Chewbacca ransomware

Chewbacca ransomware is file-encrypting malware. It targets personal files, encrypts them, and demands payment for their decryption. It’s a fairly standard ransomware infection, though it’s still very dangerous. Encrypted files will be unopenable unless you first use a decryptor on them. However, getting it may be difficult. At the moment, only users who have backups of their files can recover their data for free.

 

 

Once the ransomware is activated, it quickly starts to encrypt files, primarily targeting personal data such as photos, videos, documents, and text files. You can identify which files have been affected by the addition of the .{victim’s_ID}.chewbacca extension to the file names. These files cannot be opened until they are run through a decryptor, which is difficult to obtain since only the malware operators possess it, and they are not going to provide it for free or at all.

The ransomware leaves behind a README.TXT ransom note stating that your files have been encrypted and can be restored if you contact them via the email address chewbacca@cock.li. However, it’s essential to recognize that engaging with cybercriminals is risky, and paying the ransom is not a good idea. Even if payment is made, there’s no assurance you will receive the decryptor, as nothing is compelling the criminals to uphold their end of the bargain. Moreover, any money you send will likely fund further criminal activities.

The full Chewbacca ransomware ransom note is below:

YOUR FILES ARE ENCRYPTED

Your files, documents, photos, databases and other important files are encrypted.

You are not able to decrypt it by yourself! The only method of recovering files is to purchase an unique private key.
Only we can give you this key and only we can recover your files.

To be sure we have the decryptor and it works you can send an email:
chewbacca@cock.li and decrypt one file for free.
But this file should be of not valuable!

Do you really want to restore your files?
Write to email:
chewbacca@cock.li

Attention!
* Do not rename encrypted files.
* Do not try to decrypt your data using third party software, it may cause permanent data loss.
* Decryption of your files with the help of third parties may cause increased price (they add their fee to our) or you can become a victim of a scam.

* Do not contact the intermediary companies. Negotiate on your own. No one but us will be able to return the files to you. As evidence, we will offer to test your files.

If you have a backup, you can restore your files once you remove Chewbacca ransomware from your system. It’s highly recommended to use an anti-malware program to prevent any additional harm to your computer. If you don’t have a backup, make sure to save the encrypted files and wait for a free Chewbacca ransomware decryptor to become available. Should it be released, NoMoreRansom would have it.

How is ransomware distributed?

There are various tactics that malicious actors use to spread ransomware, including torrents, email attachments, and harmful links or advertisements. Users with poor browsing habits are at a higher risk of infection due to their engagement in risky online behaviors. Developing healthier online habits can significantly reduce the likelihood of malware infections, and it’s essential to understand common methods of malware distribution.

Emails serve as a convenient method for malware distribution. Malicious emails are often disguised as notifications for parcel deliveries or order confirmations. To catch users’ attention, they often mention large sums of money or costly purchases, creating a sense of urgency to open the attachments. However, it is possible to spot these malicious emails easily. They typically contain noticeable grammar and spelling mistakes that legitimate emails do not have. Moreover, they often refer to recipients using generic terms like “User,” “Member,” or “Customer.” In contrast, legitimate companies usually address recipients by their names, while malicious actors use generic terms due to their limited access to personal information.

Emails targeting specific individuals tend to be more sophisticated. These emails may address the recipient by name and include details that lend the email strong credibility. Therefore, it’s always advised to avoid opening unsolicited email attachments without first scanning them using an anti-virus program or VirusTotal.

Torrents are another convenient method for malware distribution. It’s widely known that torrent sites can be risky because of their minimal moderation, allowing malicious actors to upload torrents that contain malware. Frequently downloaded torrents for movies, TV shows, and video games can often harbor malware. By regularly downloading copyrighted content from these sites, not only are you technically stealing content, but you are also jeopardizing your computer and personal data.

How to remove Chewbacca ransomware

Ransomware is a serious type of malware and is very sophisticated, so it’s important to use an anti-virus program. Attempting to manually remove Chewbacca ransomware without the right expertise can lead to more damage to your computer. If you have backed up your files, you can begin the recovery process once the ransomware has been removed. However, be cautious—if your computer remains infected and you connect to your backup, those files could also become encrypted.