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How to eliminate MassJacker from infected systems

Also Known As: MassJacker cryptohijacking malware
Type: Trojan
Damage level: Severe

What kind of malware is MassJacker?

MassJacker is a cryptojacking malware. The purpose of this malware is to steal cryptocurrency. It is likely distributed and utilized by multiple threat actors, suggesting that MassJacker may operate as a malware-as-a-service (MaaS). Users who suspect their computers may be infected should immediately eliminate the malware to avoid monetary loss.

MassJacker malware

More about MassJacker

MassJacker is a stealthy malware designed to hijack cryptocurrency transactions by intercepting and replacing copied wallet addresses with attacker-controlled ones. This tactic, known as clipboard hijacking, tricks victims into unknowingly sending funds to the attacker instead of their intended recipient.

If the cryptocurrency has already been sent to the attacker's wallet, it is nearly impossible to recover. Cryptocurrency transactions are irreversible by design, meaning that they cannot be canceled or retrieved once the funds leave the victim's wallet. This makes MassJacker particularly dangerous.

Also, MassJacker uses advanced techniques to avoid detection. It obfuscates its code, manipulates functions during runtime, and hides instructions in a custom virtual machine. It also scrambles code logic, encrypts its payloads, and hides malicious code in DLL files. With anti-debugging checks and memory injection, it makes analysis and detection very difficult.

It is worth noting that MassJacker shares similarities with MassLogger, a type of malware that steals login information, which suggests they may have been created by the same developers or are part of a malware service used by different threat actors.

Threat Summary:
Name MassJacker cryptohijacking malware
Threat Type Cryptohijacking Malware
Crypto Wallets Owned by Cybercriminals CJpe4dUcV5Knc2XZKTVsTNHm2MpmJGJNWCJdkfbNdYF5, ltc1qcvt96u7ul76ha5m3rmy9ajn00avfkmsqpcfpsh
Symptoms This malware is 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 Websites offering pirated software
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.
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Conclusion

In conclusion, MassJacker is malware that uses clipboard hijacking to redirect cryptocurrency transactions to attacker-controlled wallets. Successful operations can result in significant monetary losses. It is important for both individuals and organizations to stay vigilant and implement robust security measures to mitigate the risks posed by such threats.

How did MassJacker infiltrate my computer?

The infection starts on a website that claims to offer pirated software but actually tricks users into downloading malware. For MassJacker, this process begins with a command script and a PowerShell script designed to download three files. One of these files is Amadey, a known botnet, and the other two are versions of the same malware designed for different computer systems.

The malware then uses a tool called PackerE, which downloads an encrypted file, PackerD1. This file uses different tricks to avoid being detected by security tools. After that, PackerD1 loads another file, PackerD2, which contains the MassJacker payload. Finally, PackerD2 injects MassJacker into a process called InstalUtil.exe, allowing the malware to run undetected.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Only download software from trusted sources, like official websites or well-known app stores. Never use other sources and do not download pirated software, cracking tools, or key generators. Never click on links or open attachments in suspicious emails, especially those from unknown senders.

Do not click op-ups, ads, or links on questionable websites and do not agree to receive notifications from such pages. Always keep your operating system and software up to date, and use a trusted security tool to perform regular scans for extra protection.

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:
▼ 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.

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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:

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 MassJacker, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Formatting your storage device can eliminate MassJacker, but it will erase all your data. Instead, use a trusted security tool like Combo Cleaner to detect and remove the malware.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can lead to financial loss and identity theft by stealing personal information. It may also cause system problems and allow cybercriminals to take control of your device. Moreover, it has the potential to spread to other devices.

What is the purpose of MassJacker?

MassJacker is designed to intercept and replace cryptocurrency wallet addresses with those controlled by the attacker. This method, called clipboard hijacking, deceives victims into unknowingly transferring their funds to the attacker instead of the intended recipient.

How did MassJacker infiltrate my computer?

MassJacker likely infiltrated your computer through a malicious website offering pirated programs but actually downloading malicious ones.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner can detect and remove most malware infections, but advanced threats may hide deep within your system. For thorough removal, it is recommended to perform a full system scan.

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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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