How to remove AnarchyGrabber

What is AnarchyGrabber?

Discovered by MalwareHunterTeam, AnarchyGrabber is updated, malicious software that targets Discord users. Both original and updated versions steal users' accounts, however, the updated version is capable of evading detection by modifying client files. Cyber criminals distribute this malware on various hacker forums and via YouTube videos (links in the descriptions).

AnarchyGrabber overview

Research shows that the updated AnarchyGrabber malware version avoids detection through antivirus software by modifying Discord client's JavaScript files (it modifies client files by injecting code into them). AnarchyGrabber targets the "index.js" file, which is stored in the "%AppData%\Discord\[version]\modules\discord_desktop_core\" directory.

Screenshots of original and modified Discord index.js client files are provided below. When a user launches Discord that has had its file modified by AnarchyGrabber, other, malicious JavaScript files are also loaded. When a user logs into Discord, those scripts immediately deliver the user's data (tokens) to a Discord channel controlled by cyber criminals.

Stolen Discord accounts can lead to loss of all servers, contacts, direct messages, etc. Furthermore, cyber criminals can use hacked accounts to steal other accounts by spreading the same AnarchyGrabber malware, trick other users into installing malware (such as Trojans, ransomware and other malicious software) through direct messages, and so on.

Threat Summary:

Name	AnarchyGrabber malware
Threat Type	Discord user account stealer.
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:PWSX-gen [Trj]), BitDefender (Gen:Variant.MSILPerseus.197198), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/PSW.Agent.RFZ), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-PSW.MSIL.Agent.gen), Full List (VirusTotal).
Symptoms	Programs like AnarchyGrabber are designed to stealthily infiltrate the victim's computer and remain silent, and thus no particular symptoms are clearly visible on an infected machine.
Distribution methods	Hacker forums and links in descriptions of YouTube videos.
Damage	Stolen passwords, identity theft, deleted servers, contacts.
Malware Removal (Windows)	To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. ▼ Download Combo Cleaner To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Examples of stealers

There are many stealers on the internet. Some examples are Oski, ArkeiStealer and PoulightStealer. 

Commonly, these programs steal passwords, credit card details and other sensitive information that could be misused to steal accounts, identities, make fraudulent purchases and transactions, etc, however, this particular malware (AnarchyGrabber) targets only Discord users and is used to steal user accounts.

How did AnarchyGrabber infiltrate my computer?

Research shows that AnarchyGrabber is distributed through hacker forums and links in the descriptions of various YouTube videos that were uploaded by cyber criminals. More examples of untrusted file and software download channels are third party downloaders, free file hosting pages, freeware download sites and Peer-to-Peer networks such as torrent clients, eMule.

Note that third party installers can also distribute malware. Cyber criminals commonly use spam campaigns, Trojans, software 'cracking' tools and fake updaters to spread malware. They send emails that contain malicious attachments (or web links that, if opened, download a malicious file) and hope that recipients will execute (open) them.

In most cases, they attach Microsoft Office documents, PDF documents, archive files (ZIP, RAR files), executable files (.exe and others) and JavaScript files. Trojans are malicious programs that cause chain infections: when installed, they cause installation of other malicious software.

Fake software updaters infect systems by exploiting bugs/flaws of outdated software or by installing malware rather than fixes/updates. Unofficial activation ('cracking') tools supposedly bypass paid activation of licensed software, however, they often install malicious programs.

How to avoid installation of malware

Irrelevant emails that contain attachments and/or links and are sent from unknown, suspicious addresses should never be trusted. Email contents should be opened only when you are sure that it will not cause damage (such as installation of malware). Installed programs must be updated and activated with implemented functions/tools designed by official developers.

Third party tools should never be used - cyber criminals often employ them to spread malware. Furthermore, it is illegal to bypass activation of licensed software with unofficial ('cracking') tools. Software should never be downloaded from untrusted, unofficial websites, via third party downloaders or other channels of this kind.

The same applies to installation through third party installers. Files and programs should be downloaded only from official websites and through direct links.

Finally, all computers are safer when there is reputable anti-spyware or antivirus software installed. You are advised to scan operating systems for threats with this software regularly. If you believe that your computer is already infected, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate infiltrated malware.

Screenshot of the original "index.js" Discord client file:

Screenshot of the "index.js" file modified by AnarchyGrabber:

Update 25 May 2020 - Cyber criminals have recently released a updated version of AnarchyGrabber stealer (now called AnarchyGrabber3).

This version has been implemented with several new features and it is now capable of disabling two-factor authentication (2FA) in the Discord account, stealing plain-text passwords stored in the system and spreading other malware via Discord (private messages).

The updated variant searches the system for various passwords saved in plain-text format. This is done to hijack victims' accounts on various websites, etc. By stealing victims' identities (accounts on social networks, emails, etc.), cyber criminals can generate revenue in various ways such as asking friends to lend money, sending them malicious files, and so on.

AnarchyGrabber itself is now also designed to spread malware. AnarchyGrabber scans the list of contacts (friends) in the Discord application and messages those people online. The message contains a file or a link, baiting the recipient to open it. The chance of tricking someone is high, since people tend to recklessly open files/links sent by their friends.

Instant automatic malware removal: Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Quick menu:

• What is AnarchyGrabber?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of AnarchyGrabber malware.
• STEP 2. Check if your computer is clean.

How to remove malware manually?

Manual malware removal is a complicated task - usually it is best to allow antivirus or anti-malware programs to do this automatically.

To remove this malware we recommend using Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows. If you wish to remove malware manually, the first step is to identify the name of the malware that you are trying to remove. Here is an example of a suspicious program running on a user's computer:

If you checked the list of programs running on your computer, for example, using task manager, and identified a program that looks suspicious, you should continue with these steps:

Download a program called Autoruns. This program shows auto-start applications, Registry, and file system locations:

Restart your computer into Safe Mode:

Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, and then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Video showing how to start Windows 7 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

Windows 8 users: Start Windows 8 is Safe Mode with Networking - Go to Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings. Click Advanced startup options, in the opened "General PC Settings" window, select Advanced startup.

Click the "Restart now" button. Your computer will now restart into the "Advanced Startup options menu". Click the "Troubleshoot" button, and then click the "Advanced options" button. In the advanced option screen, click "Startup settings". Click the "Restart" button. Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen. Press F5 to boot in Safe Mode with Networking.

Video showing how to start Windows 8 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click "Restart" while holding "Shift" button on your keyboard. In the "choose an option" window click on the "Troubleshoot", next select "Advanced options". In the advanced options menu select "Startup Settings" and click on the "Restart" button.

In the following window you should click the "F5" button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.

Video showing how to start Windows 10 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

 

Extract the downloaded archive and run the Autoruns.exe file.

In the Autoruns application, click "Options" at the top and uncheck "Hide Empty Locations" and "Hide Windows Entries" options. After this procedure, click the "Refresh" icon.

Check the list provided by the Autoruns application and locate the malware file that you want to eliminate.

You should write down its full path and name. Note that some malware hides process names under legitimate Windows process names. At this stage, it is very important to avoid removing system files. After you locate the suspicious program you wish to remove, right click your mouse over its name and choose "Delete".

After removing the malware through the Autoruns application (this ensures that the malware will not run automatically on the next system startup), you should search for the malware name on your computer. Be sure to enable hidden files and folders before proceeding. If you find the filename of the malware, be sure to remove it.

Reboot your computer in normal mode. Following these steps should remove any malware from your computer. Note that manual threat removal requires advanced computer skills. If you do not have these skills, leave malware removal to antivirus and anti-malware programs.

These steps might not work with advanced malware infections. As always it is best to prevent infection than try to remove malware later. To keep your computer safe, install the latest operating system updates and use antivirus software.

To be sure your computer is free of malware infections, we recommend scanning it with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

My computer is infected with AnarchyGrabber malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Formatting your storage device is a drastic measure but will effectively remove AnarchyGrabber malware. However, you should first try using a reliable anti-malware tool like Combo Cleaner to detect and remove the malware.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can lead to data theft and financial loss, affect system performance, corrupt files, inject other malware, and spread to other devices.

What is the purpose of AnarchyGrabber?

The updated AnarchyGrabber malware avoids detection by modifying Discord's JavaScript files, particularly targeting the "index.js" file in the Discord client. Once modified, the malware steals user data, including tokens, and sends them to cyber criminals, leading to account takeovers. Stolen accounts can be used to spread more malware or scam others, resulting in further security risks.

How did AnarchyGrabber infiltrate my computer?

AnarchyGrabber is spread through hacker forums and links found in the descriptions of YouTube videos posted by cyber criminals.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can detect and remove nearly all known malware infections. It is important to note that advanced malware often hides deep within the system, making a full system scan essential for thorough detection and removal.

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