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Jacard malware

Category: Malware

Type: Trojan

Platform: Windows

Variants: Trojan:Win32/Jacard, W32/Jacard.TRN!tr, Gen:Variant.Application.Jacard.131537, Gen:Variant.Jacard.71657, Trojan.Jacard.D117E9, W32/Jacard.Q.gen!Eldorado, Trojan.Jacard.D117E9.

Damage potential: Jacard is a trojan that exfiltrates data, modifies system settings, and opens the door for other malware to the infected device.

Overview

Jacard is a trojan that targets Windows devices and cleverly disguises itself as legitimate software. After an unsuspecting user installs it on their device, it silently performs harmful actions, such as stealing your sensitive data, altering system settings, displaying harmful pop-ups, opening the door for further malware infections, performing denial of service (DoS) attacks, and terminating or starting system processes on its own. Jacard is highly sophisticated, which makes it hard to detect and capable of causing unnoticed damage over time.

Possible symptoms

Detecting Jacard malware might be difficult because it does everything to stay hidden. The most common symptom of Jacard malware is slow computer performance. That’s because it runs background processes, which consume CPU, memory, and disk resources.

Other possible Jacard symptoms include:

  • Changes in system or browser settings that the user didn’t initiate.
  • Random pop-ups and intrusive banners.
  • Spikes in data usage or unusual network traffic.
  • Missing, corrupted, or new files appearing without explanation.
  • Unexpected system crashes.
  • Decreased storage space on a device.

Sources of the infection

Jacard usually sneaks into a user’s device through phishing emails containing URLs and attachments infected with this malware. Criminals use various deceptive and social engineering tactics to make victims click on those corrupt URLs or attachments and download Jacard. Other sources of infection for Jacard malware are similar to those of many trojans:

  • Drive-by downloads. A user may accidentally download Jacard from a compromised website.
  • Software vulnerabilities. Jacard may exploit vulnerabilities in unpatched operating systems, browsers, and applications.
  • Fake software updates. Jacard may sneak into a user’s device as a fake software update of legitimate programs.
  • Malvertising. Users who click on a malicious ad may unknowingly download and install Jacard.
  • Pirated downloads. Hackers may hide Jacard in software bundles from pirated websites.
  • Removable media. Jacard can spread through infected USBs and external hard drives via autorun files.

Protection

Consider these measures to protect your computer from the Jacard malware:

  • Update your software. Always patch your operating system, browsers, applications, and, most importantly, your antivirus software against known vulnerabilities.
  • Enable two-factor authentication. Set up biometric authentication or add another device to verify your identity.
  • Be cautious with emails and attachments. Never click on URLs or open attachments in emails from strangers.
  • Never download software from unknown sources. Only download software and applications from official and trusted distributors.
  • Create strong passwords. Create unique and complex passwords for your online accounts. Make sure they contain letters, numbers, and special characters. Remember never to reuse them on different accounts.

Jacard removal

If you suspect that your computer was infected with Jacard, immediately disconnect your device from the internet and restart it in safe mode to stop the malware from loading. Then, run a full system scan with reputable antivirus software and remove the trojan. Open the task manager (Windows) or activity monitor (Mac) to check for any suspicious or unfamiliar programs and remove them from your computer. However, if the malware persists, contact a cybersecurity professional – they’ll know how to help you.