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How to remove malware associated with the OnlyFans campaign

Also Known As: OnlyFans malware campaign
Type: Trojan
Damage level: Severe

What is OnlyFans malware?

OnlyFans malware refers to a malware campaign that employs deceptive techniques involving counterfeit OnlyFans content and adult-themed lures. The primary objective of this campaign is to install a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) and potentially other forms of malware on the targeted systems. A RAT is a type of malware that can be used to achieve various malicious goals.

OnlyFans malware

More about OnlyFans malware campaign

The newly discovered campaign takes advantage of the widespread popularity of OnlyFans and the desire to access paid content for free. It involves the distribution of ZIP files containing a VBScript loader disguised as premium OnlyFans collections, which the victim is deceived into manually executing.

The exact method of infection remains unknown, but potential sources include malicious forum posts, instant messages, malvertising, or Black SEO sites. One of the known payloads in the OnlyFans campaign is a RAT named DcRAT. This malware carries out various nefarious activities, including keylogging, monitoring webcams, manipulating files, and enabling remote access.

In addition to its functionality, DcRAT possesses the ability to pilfer credentials and cookies from web browsers, seize Discord tokens, and includes a ransomware plugin. DcRAT can compromise the privacy and security of individuals by capturing sensitive information through keylogging and webcam monitoring.

The theft of credentials and cookies from web browsers can lead to unauthorized access to personal accounts, potentially resulting in identity theft or financial loss. Furthermore, the ability to snatch Discord tokens can enable attackers to gain unauthorized access to Discord accounts, potentially causing reputational damage and facilitating further malicious activities.

Finally, the inclusion of a ransomware plugin adds the potential for encrypting files and demanding ransom payments for their release, causing significant disruption and potential data loss. It is important to know that DcRAT may not be the only malware distributed in the OnlyFans malware campaign.

Threat Summary:
Name OnlyFans malware campaign
Threat Type Trojan, password-stealing virus, banking malware, spyware.
Detection Names (Malicious ZIP File) Avast (VBS:Obfuscated-HZ [Cryp]), Combo Cleaner (VB:Trojan.Valyria.8212), ESET-NOD32 (VBS/TrojanDropper.Agent.OTA), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan.Script.Generic), Symantec (Trojan.Gen.NPE), Full List (VirusTotal)
Payload DcRAT and possibly other malware
Symptoms It depends on the payload. The symptoms may include losing access to files or online accounts, among others.
Distribution methods Infected email attachments, malicious online advertisements, social engineering, software 'cracks'.
Damage Stolen passwords and banking information, identity theft, computer added to a botnet, data loss, monetary loss, and other issues (depending on the payload)
Malware Removal (Windows)

To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner.
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Conclusion

The OnlyFans malware campaign demonstrates how threat actors leverage the popularity of platforms like OnlyFans to carry out their malicious objectives. This campaign highlights the importance of maintaining strong security measures, exercising caution while browsing, and staying vigilant against social engineering tactics.

How did OnlyFans malware infiltrate my computer?

In reported cases, individuals were enticed into downloading Zip files that contained a VBScript loader, which they manually executed. The naming convention of these files indicates that victims were tempted with explicit photos or content related to various adult film actresses, potentially associated with OnlyFans.

It is unknown how cybercriminals served victims the Zip files. Possible origins may encompass malicious forum posts, instant messages, malvertising, or Black SEO sites.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Ensure that your operating system and software are regularly updated with the latest security patches to minimize vulnerabilities. Exercise vigilance when handling email attachments or interacting with suspicious links, particularly those originating from unfamiliar or untrusted sources.

Use reputable antivirus and anti-malware software and regularly scan your system for potential threats. Practice safe browsing habits, such as avoiding downloading files from untrusted websites and being cautious of pop-up advertisements or deceptive download buttons.

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.

Example of a malicious ZIP file and its contents used to distribute malware:

OnlyFans malware ZIP archive and its contents

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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Quick menu:

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:

Malware process running in the Task Manager

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:

manual malware removal step 1Download a program called Autoruns. This program shows auto-start applications, Registry, and file system locations:

Autoruns application appearance

manual malware removal step 2Restart 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.

Run Windows 7 or Windows XP in Safe Mode with Networking

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.

Run Windows 8 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.

Run Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking

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

manual malware removal step 3Extract the downloaded archive and run the Autoruns.exe file.

Extract Autoruns.zip archive and run Autoruns.exe application

manual malware removal step 4In 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.

Refresh Autoruns application results

manual malware removal step 5Check 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".

Delete malware in Autoruns

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.

Search for malware and delete 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 malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

If your computer is infected with malware, it is highly recommended to utilize antivirus software as the first line of defense. Formatting the storage device should be regarded as a last resort since it will result in the complete erasure of all data.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

The consequences of malware can vary depending on its type, potentially resulting in identity theft, financial losses, diminished computer performance, an increased risk of subsequent infections, data loss, etc.

What is the purpose of a malware?

Malware can serve various purposes, including stealing sensitive information, disrupting computer operations, distributing spam or other malicious content, facilitating unauthorized remote access, or generating financial gain for cybercriminals through activities like ransomware or banking trojans.

How did a malware infiltrate my computer?

The distribution of high-risk malware commonly relies on diverse social engineering techniques, such as phishing, along with other methods like malspam and deceptive system warning messages. Additionally, drive-by downloads, Peer-to-Peer (P2P) networks, and unofficial software download websites are often employed to spread malware. It is worth noting that certain types of malware possess the ability to self-propagate through local networks and removable storage devices, such as external hard drives and USB flash drives.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner can detect and eradicate nearly all known malware infections. However, it is crucial to acknowledge that advanced malware often conceals itself deeply within the system. Consequently, a comprehensive system scan becomes imperative to identify and eliminate any lurking malware.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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