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Betabot

Also known as: Neurevt

Category: Malware

Type: Trojan, information stealer, banking malware

Platform: Windows

Variants:

Damage potential: Data theft, unauthorized access to personal accounts, financial loss, botnet participation

Overview

Betabot is a sophisticated trojan with multiple capabilities. Once on a system, it displays a pop-up that looks like a Windows User Account Control (UAC) prompt and asks victims to enable Windows Command Processor to make changes in the system settings. If the victim clicks to approve, Betabot disables the security software and steals sensitive data (e.g., usernames, passwords, or banking information). By deactivating security software, Betabot also makes the infected system vulnerable to other viruses. In some cases, Betabot downloaded additional ransomware onto infected devices.

Possible symptoms

Betabot specifically targets security software, so you may suspect a Betabot infection if your antivirus program fails to update, cannot be started, or is disabled without your knowledge.

Other possible symptoms include:

  • Inability to access cybersecurity websites.
  • Restricted access to system tools such as the registry editor or task manager.
  • Unusual network activity.
  • System slowdowns or crashes.
  • Unauthorized access to online services.
  • Unexpected transactions.

Sources of the infection

Betabot typically spreads through phishing emails, messaging apps, exploit kits, via piggybacking, and infected USB drives.

Protection

Always stay vigilant online to protect yourself from Betabot and similar cyber threats.

  • Be cautious with emails from unknown senders, avoid clicking on links or attachments.
  • Use NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro to scan downloads for malware.
  • Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for extra protection against unauthorized access.
  • Regularly back up important data.

Removal

Betabot might be challenging to remove because it switches off the antivirus software and blocks access to online security websites. If you choose to handle the removal yourself, here are the steps you should follow:

  • Download the full antivirus suite on a clean computer.
  • Transfer the necessary files to a USB drive.
  • Connect the USB drive to the infected computer and run the antivirus program to remove Betabot.
  • Change passwords for online services if you suspect that Betabot compromised your accounts.
  • Reformat the USB drive you used to avoid spreading Betabot to other devices.