How to remove PipeMagic malware from the operating system

What kind of malware is PipeMagic?

PipeMagic is a piece of malicious software classed as a backdoor. Programs of this kind seek to open a "backdoor" into systems for further infections, and some can even carry them out (i.e., download/install additional malicious content).

PipeMagic has been around since at least 2022. Originally used to target entities in Asia, the operation has expanded to the Middle East, North and South Americas, and Europe. It is noteworthy that PipeMagic has been noted infiltrating systems under the guise of a ChatGPT application.

PipeMagic malware overview

PipeMagic has infiltrated systems by exploiting various vulnerabilities in legitimate software and processes. In one of the campaigns involving this malware, it was installed onto devices as ChatGPT. The fake ChatGPT app was written in the Rust programming language and was full of encrypted malicious data. Once the imitator application was launched, the interface appeared blank. PipeMagic was introduced into systems in the second-stage of the infection.

After successful infiltration, this malicious program connects to its C&C (Command and Control) server. It has been observed connecting to a server hosted on Microsoft Azure.

PipeMagic is a backdoor-type malware – a program designed to open a "backdoor" into systems to prep them for further infection and carry it out. In other words, PipeMagic can download/install additional malicious software or components onto devices. This backdoor is a modular malware, i.e., it relies on modules to gain extra capabilities.

PipeMagic has been used to gather sensitive data and enable remote access/control over infected machines. However, since it can be used to introduce malware into systems – it could cause just about any kind of infection (e.g., trojan, ransomware, cryptominer, etc.).

The threat actors associated with PipeMagic have also used Cobalt Strike malware in their attacks. This group has infected organizations with the NOKOYAWA ransomware; suspected to have been delivered through PipeMagic.

It is noteworthy that malware developers often improve upon their software and tactics. Hence, potential future versions of PipeMagic can have additional/different functionalities and features.

To summarize, the presence of software like PipeMagic on devices can lead to multiple system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Backdoor-type malware examples

Tropidoor, Anubis, and Betruger are merely a few of our latest articles on malware with backdoor capabilities. Malicious software can have various functionalities; it can be designed for a limited purpose or varied application.

However, regardless of how malware functions – its presence on a system endangers device integrity and user safety. Therefore, all threats must be removed immediately upon detection.

How did PipeMagic infiltrate my computer?

PipeMagic has been infiltrated into systems disguised as a ChatGPT application. However, it could be spread under different disguises and through varied methods.

Malicious programs are often presented as or bundled with ordinary software/media files. They can be executables (.exe, .run, etc.), archives (ZIP, RAR, etc.), documents (PDF, Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, etc.), JavaScript, and so on.

Phishing and social engineering are standard for malware distribution. The most widespread malware proliferation techniques include: drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads, malicious attachments or links in spam mail (e.g., emails, DMs/PMs, etc.), online scams, malvertising, dubious download channels (e.g., freeware and third-party sites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), pirated content, and fake updates.

Furthermore, some malicious programs can self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).

How to avoid installation of malware?

We strongly recommend vigilance when browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content usually appears legitimate and harmless. Incoming emails and other messages must be approached with caution. Attachments or links present in suspect/irrelevant mail must not be opened, as they can be infectious.

Another recommendation is to download only from official and verified sources. Additionally, all programs must be activated and updated using genuine functions/tools, as those obtained from third-parties can contain malware.

It is essential 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 and 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.

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:

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.

Quick menu:

• What is PipeMagic?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of PipeMagic 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 PipeMagic malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Malware removal rarely requires formatting.

What are the biggest issues that PipeMagic malware can cause?

The dangers posed by an infection depend on the malware's functionalities and the cyber criminals' modus operandi. PipeMagic is a backdoor that can cause chain infections, and it has been used to steal vulnerable data and enable remote access to devices. Generally, the presence of such software on machines can lead to multiple system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

What is the purpose of PipeMagic malware?

Malware is mainly used for profit. However, malicious programs can also be used to amuse or realize the personal grudges of the attackers, disrupt processes (e.g., sites, services, companies, etc.), engage in hacktivism, and launch politically/geopolitically motivated attacks.

How did PipeMagic malware infiltrate my computer?

PipeMagic has been proliferated disguised as a ChatGPT app. Other disguises are likely. In general, malware is mainly spread via untrustworthy download channels (e.g., freeware and third-party websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), malvertising, online scams, spam emails/messages, illegal software activation tools ("cracks"), pirated content, and fake updates.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner is capable of detecting and removing almost all known malware infections. It must be emphasized that performing a complete system scan is paramount since sophisticated malicious software usually hides deep within systems.