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Alchimist

Also known as: Alchimist RAT

Category: Malware

Type: Remote access trojan (RAT)

Platform: Windows, Linux, and macOS

Variants: No known variants

Damage potential: Takes control of the infected system, downloads and executes additional malicious payloads, exfiltrates data, facilitates further attacks by other malware, and can be used for surveillance and data theft.

Overview

Alchimist is a remote access trojan (RAT) that targets multiple platforms, including Windows, Linux, and macOS. It is typically sophisticated cybercriminals and advanced threat groups, often linked to nation-states, who use this RAT. Once Alchimist infects a device or network, attackers can take complete control and carry out various harmful actions, including:

  • Steal files and data.
  • Capture screenshots.
  • Record keystrokes (keylogging).
  • Open a remote command line (remote shell) to execute commands.
  • Maintain access to the infected system over time.

Attackers can control all these actions remotely through a command-and-control (C2) infrastructure, allowing them to spy on, steal, and manipulate data over time.

Possible symptoms

Alchimist typically slows down your computer performance because it runs additional malicious processes in the background, such as downloading and executing further payloads or collecting and transmitting system information. Other possible symptoms include:

  • Unexpected system crashes.
  • Slow or unresponsive system performance.
  • Unauthorized changes in system settings.
  • Unknown processes in the task manager that you didn’t initiate.
  • Spikes in network activity.
  • Turned off security programs.
  • Inability to access certain websites.
  • Unauthorized access or changes to files.
  • Unexplained usage of system resources, such as CPU or memory.
  • Unusual system behaviors, like the mouse moving on its own or unexpected commands being executed.

Sources of infection

Alchimist malware primarily spreads through phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links. These emails often look legitimate, tricking you into opening the attachment or clicking the link, which then downloads and installs the malware.

Another entry point is through drive-by downloads, where it’s enough for you to visit an infected website to have the malware automatically downloaded and installed on your device without your knowledge.

Sometimes, hackers spread Alchimist via compromised software or hardware. They might also embed the malware into software updates or free downloads from untrusted sources. Once installed, these programs act as a trojan, providing a backdoor for the Alchimist malware to enter your system. Attackers might also exploit network vulnerabilities, such as weak or outdated security measures, to gain access and deploy the malware.

Protection

The most effective way to protect against Alchimist is to educate yourself about malware and online threats, such as phishing attacks. Other countermeasures against Alchimist include:

  • Using antivirus software. Purchase reputable antivirus software with real-time protection to prevent Alchimist.
  • Regularly updating your programs. Keep your operating system, browsers, and all applications up to date to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Using Threat Protection Pro. Purchase NordVPN with the advanced Threat Protection Pro feature, which blocks malicious ads and suspicious sites and scans files for malware as you download them.
  • Filtering email. Use advanced email filtering solutions to block phishing emails and malicious attachments.
  • Avoiding suspicious links and attachments. Never click on unfamiliar links or suspicious attachments, especially from unknown senders.
  • Implementing network security. Set up firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection to detect and prevent Alchimist.
  • Using NordPass. Never keep your passwords written in plain text on your computer. Use a trusty password manager like NordPass, which allows you to store all your credentials under one master password.
  • Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Removal

If you suspect that Alchimist has infected your system, immediately disconnect your device from the internet and restart your computer in safe mode. Then run a full antivirus scan to detect and remove the malware. Make sure to follow the steps the antivirus software recommends to remove the malware thoroughly.

Once you have removed Alchimist from your system, change all your online account passwords to protect your data from further damage. Only use strong and unique passwords for each account. Contact a cybersecurity professional if the malware persists or you can’t remove it completely.