Removal instructions for the BabbleLoader malware
Written by Tomas Meskauskas on
What kind of malware is BabbleLoader?
BabbleLoader is a malicious program classified as a loader. It is designed to cause further infection by downloading/installing additional malware onto systems. BabbleLoader has been noted infiltrating stealers into compromised devices. This loader uses a variety of sophisticated detection and analysis evasion techniques.
BabbleLoader has been observed being used to target English and Russian speaking users. It has been distributed under various disguises, targeting both average home users and financial/administration specialists.
BabbleLoader malware overview
As mentioned in the introduction, BabbleLoader aims to infect systems with additional malware. This loader is distinguished by its sophisticated evasion mechanisms. BabbleLoader has anti-detection and anti-analysis capabilities. To overview just a few of these features, it can detect when launched on virtual machines or in sandbox environments.
The program's analysis is further hindered by a voluminous amount of junk code, which consists of not only random imports but also hardcoded strings that are randomly generated. The sheer gargantuan scope of this coded "noise" is such that it can crash analysis-oriented tools or be rejected outright.
Additionally, BabbleLoader's composition is metamorphic, meaning that each version of this loader is distinct, as it merely includes small snippets of the same code, while the rest (i.e., code, hashes, strings, control flow, metadata, encryption, etc.) is unique.
This impedes not only traditional detection software but tools using AI (Artificial Intelligence) as well. Hence, in cases of metamorphic malware, the AI has to constantly relearn as it processes (a feat that can require an enormous amount of processing power), and this can lead to failed detections and false positives (wherein innocuous content is flagged as harmful).
BabbleLoader hides its payloads by embedding and decrypting them in memory. In one of the known infections that utilized this loader, it was followed by the Donut loader, which in turn introduced the final payload into the system – the WhiteSnake stealer.
Data stealers commonly target information associated with installed software, such as browsers, password managers, email clients, messengers, FTPs, VPNs, cryptocurrency wallets, gaming-related programs, and so on.
It must be mentioned that BabbleLoader could be used to infiltrate other stealers or a different type of malware altogether. It is also worth noting that malware developers often improve upon their software and methodologies.
To summarize, the presence of programs like BabbleLoader on devices can result in multiple system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
| Name | BabbleLoader virus |
| Threat Type | Trojan, loader. |
| Detection Names | Avast (Win64:CrypterX-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Lazy.604507), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win64/GenKryptik.HBPI), Kaspersky (Trojan.Win64.BabbleLoader.ah), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Wacatac.B!ml), Full List Of Detections (VirusTotal) |
| Payload | WhiteSnake |
| 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. |
Loader-type malware examples
We have written about countless malicious programs; Ande, PrivateLoader, BottomLoader, and BunnyLoader are merely a few of our latest articles on loaders. Theoretically, loaders can be used to cause just about any kind of infection (e.g., trojan, ransomware, cryptominer, etc.); however, they tend to operate within certain specifications or limitations.
Yet regardless of how malware operates – its presence on a system endangers device integrity and user safety. Therefore, despite their functionalities, all threats must be eliminated immediately upon detection.
How did BabbleLoader infiltrate my computer?
BabbleLoader has been noted being distributed under a wide variety of disguises; the range suggests that the net is cast broadly – with lures targeting home users and professionals.
Known disguises centered on "cracked" programs, video games, utility tools, video editing software, VPNs, browsers, and so on. Specialist-targeting lures included accounting programs and eligibility check filling forms (commonly used by professionals handling payrolls and HR departments).
Other disguises and varied distribution methods are not unlikely. Phishing and social engineering are standard in malware proliferation.
Malicious 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 on. Just opening a virulent file can be enough to trigger the infection process.
Malware is mainly spread via drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, untrustworthy download sources (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), pirated content, illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), fake updaters, malicious attachments or links in spam emails/messages, online scams, and malvertising.
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 channels. Additionally, all programs must be activated and updated using legitimate functions/tools, as illegal activation ("cracking") tools and third-party updates can contain malware.
Another recommendation is to be vigilant when browsing since the Internet is rife with deceptive and malicious content. Incoming emails and other messages must be approached with care. Attachments or links present in suspicious/irrelevant mail must not be opened, as they can be infectious.
It is paramount for device and user safety to have a reputable anti-virus installed and kept up-to-date. Security software must be used to run regular system scans and to remove detected threats. 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.
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:
- What is BabbleLoader?
- STEP 1. Manual removal of BabbleLoader 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 BabbleLoader malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?
Malware removal seldom needs such drastic measures.
What are the biggest issues that BabbleLoader malware can cause?
The threats posed by an infection depend on the malicious program's capabilities and the cyber criminals' modus operandi. BabbleLoader is designed to cause chain infections and has been noted infiltrating data-stealers into systems. The multiple system infections caused by BabbleLoader can lead to severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.
What is the purpose of BabbleLoader malware?
Malware is primarily used for profit. However, cyber criminals can also use malicious software to amuse themselves, carry out personal vendettas, engage in hacktivism, disrupt processes (e.g., websites, services, companies, etc.), and launch politically/geopolitically motivated attacks.
How did BabbleLoader malware infiltrate my computer?
BabbleLoader has been spread under various disguises, such as "cracked" programs, utility tools, video editing software, games, etc. It has also been proliferated disguised as software associated with finances/administration.
Generally, malware is distributed via drive-by downloads, suspicious download sources (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal program activation ("cracks"), fake updates, spam mail, online scams, and malvertising. Some malicious programs can even self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices.
Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?
Combo Cleaner can detect and eliminate almost all known malware infections. Keep in mind that running a complete system scan is crucial since high-end malicious software tends to hide deep within systems.
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