Removal instructions for Skuld stealer-type malware
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of malware is Skuld?
Skuld is a stealer-type malware written in the Go programming language. This malicious program is designed to extract and exfiltrate vulnerable data from systems. There are multiple versions of Skuld, and some have more extraction capabilities than others.
Skuld malware overview
After Skuld is launched on a system, it may display a bogus error message as a diversion. This malware employs anti-analysis techniques, i.e., it can detect when executed on a virtual machine or in a sandbox environment. Skuld can also terminate undesirable processes (such as those of security tools).
The stealer begins its operations by collecting relevant device data, e.g., device name, CPU, GPU, RAM, Operating System (OS) version, username, IP address (geolocation), MAC address, Windows license key, and so on.
From browsers based on Chromium and Gecko (full list), Skuld can obtain browsing activity related data, downloads, session tokens (Chromium), Internet cookies, usernames/passwords, personally identifiable details, etc. This stealer also targets data associated with the Discord messaging platform in order to steal victims' accounts.
Some versions of Skuld can download files from the following folders – desktop, documents, pictures, music, videos, downloads, and OneDrive. Several variants likewise have clipper-type functionalities, i.e., they can detect when a cryptocurrency wallet address is copied into the clipboard and paste one belonging to the cyber criminals.
However, the clipper module appeared to be still in development in the researched Skuld versions. Only the Bitcoin (BTC) cryptocurrency targeting clipper ability was fully implemented. Other targeted digital currencies include Cardano (ADA), Chia (XCH), Coinchase (CCH), Dash (DASH), Ethereum (ETH), Litecoin (LTC), Monero (XMR), and Popchain (PCH).
It is pertinent to mention that malware developers often improve upon their software; therefore, future iterations of Skuld could have additional/different functionalities.
In summary, the presence of software like the Skuld stealer on devices can result in severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | Skuld malware |
| Threat Type | Trojan, password-stealing virus, stealer, clipper. |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win64:Malware-gen), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.Generic.33638573), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of WinGo/PSW.Agent.DP), Kaspersky (Trojan-PSW.Win64.Disco.amv), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.B!ml), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Symptoms | Trojans 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 | Infected email attachments, malicious online advertisements, social engineering, software 'cracks'. |
| Damage | Stolen passwords and banking information, identity theft, the victim's computer added to a botnet. |
| Malware Removal (Windows) | To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner. |
Stealer-type malware examples
We have analyzed countless malware samples; GreetingGhoul, PirateStealer, Bandit, and Warp are just a few examples of our latest finds within the stealer category. Data-stealing software can target specific details or a broad range of information.
In general, malware can have varied functionalities in different combinations. However, regardless of how malicious software operates – its presence on a system endangers device integrity and user safety. Therefore, all threats must be eliminated immediately upon detection.
How did Skuld infiltrate my computer?
There is evidence suggesting that Skuld may be offered for sale in the future. In which case, its distribution will depend on the cyber criminals using it at the time.
Malware is usually proliferated by employing phishing and social engineering techniques. It tends to be disguised as or bundled with ordinary programs/media.
Infectious files come in various formats, e.g., archives (ZIP, RAR, etc.), executables (.exe, .run, etc.), documents (Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, PDF, etc.), JavaScript, and so forth. When a malicious file is opened – the infection chain is triggered.
The most widely used malware distribution methods include: drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, online scams, malicious attachments/links in spam mail (e.g., emails, PMs/DMs, SMSes, etc.), dubious download channels (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation ("cracking") tools, and fake updates.
Furthermore, some malicious programs can self-proliferate through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).
How to avoid installation of malware?
We highly recommend downloading only from official and verified sources. Additionally, all programs must be activated and updated using functions/tools provided by legitimate developers, as illegal activation tools ("cracks") and fake updates can contain malware.
Another recommendation is to exercise caution when browsing since fake and malicious online content usually appears ordinary and harmless. Vigilance must be extended to incoming emails and messages. We advise against opening attachments or links present in suspicious/irrelevant mail, as they can be virulent.
It is crucial to have a dependable anti-virus installed and kept up-to-date. Security software must be used to run regular system scans and to remove detected threats/issues. 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.
List of browsers targeted by Skuld stealer;
Chromium-based:
- Google Chrome
- 7Star
- Amigo
- Brave
- Catalina
- CentBrowser
- Chedot
- Chrome (x86)
- Chrome SxS
- CocCoc
- Coowon
- DCBrowser
- Dragon
- Edge
- Elements
- Epic Privacy Browser
- Fenrir
- Iridium
- K-Melon
- Kometa
- Liebao
- Maple
- Maxthon
- Opera
- OperaGX
- Orbitum
- QIP Surf
- Sputnik
- Torch
- Uran
- Vivaldi
- Yandex
Gecko-based:
- Mozilla Firefox
- BlackHaw
- Cyberfox
- IceDragon
- K-Meleon
- Pale Moon
- SeaMonkey
- Thunderbird
- Waterfox
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:
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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 Skuld malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?
No, Skuld's removal does not necessitate formatting.
What are the biggest issues that Skuld malware can cause?
The type of malware and the cyber criminal's goals dictate the potential threats. Skuld is a stealer – malware designed to extract and exfiltrate data. Generally, these infections can result in severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
What is the purpose of Skuld malware?
While malware can operate differently, the aim is usually the same – to generate revenue. However, cyber criminals can also use this software to amuse themselves, carry out personal vendettas, disrupt processes (e.g., websites, services, companies, etc.), and even launch politically/geopolitically motivated attacks.
How did Skuld malware infiltrate my computer?
Malware is mainly proliferated via drive-by downloads, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), spam emails and messages, malvertising, online scams, illegal program activation tools ("cracks"), and fake updates. Some malicious programs can even self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices.
Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?
Yes, Combo Cleaner is designed to detect and eliminate detected threats. It can scan systems and eliminate nearly all known malware detections. Note that since sophisticated malicious software usually hides deep within systems – performing a full system scan is paramount.
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