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AutoIt.Gen

Also known as: Trojan AutoIt, AutoIt, Trojan.Win32.Autoit, W32/AutoIt.BN, trojan-downloader:W32/Autoit, Trojan-Clicker.Win32.AutoIt, Trojan.AutoIt.860

Category: Malware

Type: Trojan

Platform: Windows

Variants: Trojan.Win32.Autoit, AutoIt Mydoom, AutoIt.Downloader, AutoIt.Inject, AutoIt.Agent, AutoIt.Kilim, AutoIt.Banload

Damage potential: Malware infection, loss of system files, modified web browser settings, installation of other harmful programs (e.g., viruses), anti-virus software deletion, data theft, remote control

Overview

AutoIt.Gen is a trojan that can infect Windows devices. AutoIt isn’t inherently malicious — it’s a coding language developers have used for decades. However, cybercriminals have taken advantage of this easy-to-use language to create malware and infect devices. AutoIt.Gen can cause various issues, from changing your web browser settings to stealing sensitive data.

Possible symptoms

The most common symptoms of AutoIt.Gen are unexpected changes in your browser settings — like your homepage, search engine, or new tab page.

Additional symptoms of AutoIt.Gen infections include:

  • Unusual system behavior, like slower performance, crashes, or freezing.
  • Seeing many strange pop-ups, alerts, banners, and sponsored links.
  • Changes in browser settings, such as your homepage or search engine.
  • Software downloads and installations you didn’t initiate.
  • Increased network activity (e.g., slower internet and higher CPU usage).
  • Modifications in your files or folders (e.g., file creation or deletion).
  • Exposed passwords or other sensitive data due to keyloggers.
  • Windows PowerShell and command prompt are opening and closing.

Sources of the infection

AutoIt.Gen can infect devices in several ways, but it typically spreads as a file attached to emails and instant messages. Users may click on the attachments without realizing they’re malicious — and unintentionally download the trojan onto their computer.

Here are the ways AutoIt.Gen may infect your device:

  • Phishing emails. Users may receive emails or messages with an attached AutoIt script disguised as something harmless (e.g., a PDF or a document).
  • Malicious downloads. Users may unintentionally download executable files from untrustworthy websites that are actually malicious AutoIt.Gen scripts.
  • Drive-by downloads. Simply visiting some compromised websites can automatically download AutoIt.Gen onto your computer.
  • Bundled software. Free or pirated software downloads may include hidden AutoIt.Gen scripts.
  • Removable drives. AutoIt.Gen may spread by infecting files on removable drives, such as USBs or external hard drives.

Protection

Users can prevent most AutoIt.Gen infections by becoming more mindful of cyber threats and exercising caution online.

Here’s how to protect yourself from AutoIt.Gen:

  • Keep software up to date. Regularly installing updates makes your operating system and browser less susceptible to attacks.
  • Be wary of phishing emails. Malicious emails often contain attachments that install AutoIt.Gen. If an email sounds “off,” don’t open its attachments.
  • Only download from trusted sites. Downloading from unofficial sources comes with countless security risks. Only get software from trusted providers.
  • Use reputable security software. Choose reliable antivirus and anti-malware software with real-time protection to detect and prevent AutoIt.Gen.
  • Enable controlled folder access. This Windows feature helps prevent unauthorized access to certain folders on your device.
  • Use Threat Protection Pro. This advanced NordVPN feature may help prevent drive-by downloads by blocking malicious sites. Plus, it scans your downloads for malware.

Removal

A reliable antivirus software should indicate a potentially malicious file or script like AutoIt.Gen. If you suspect the trojan has infected your device, follow the typical procedure for removing trojans using malware removal tools.