Raccoon

Damage potential: Data theft, keylogging, system and file damage, privacy breaches, identity theft, and significant financial loss.

Overview

Raccoon is a well-known information-stealing trojan that primarily targets Windows devices. This trojan was first detected in 2019, with new variants coming out over the years. Raccoon follows a malware-as-a-service (MaaS) model, meaning hackers can purchase and use it for malicious operations. Raccoon steals various types of data — from browser autofill passwords to credit card details. The latest variants are stealthy, meaning they’re more difficult to detect than earlier versions.

Possible symptoms

The symptoms of a Raccoon infection are similar to other trojan infections. The updated 2022 version of Raccoon is stealthy, so it may evade antivirus detection.

Here are the possible signs of a Raccoon infection:

• Slower system performance

• Unexplained network traffic

• Disabled security software

• Unfamiliar processes running in the Task Manager

• Unusually high CPU or network usage

• Suspicious pop-ups, warnings, or notifications

Sources of the infection

A Raccoon stealer may spread in many different ways, with the trojan moving fast once it infects a device. Here are some of the most common ways Raccoon spreads:

• Cracked software. Free or cracked software may carry Raccoon or other malware, installing it on the user’s device without their knowledge.

• Spam emails. Users may unknowingly download Raccoon by opening a malicious link or attachment in a phishing email.

• Malicious toolkits. Cybercriminals may use malware distribution tools like the Rig Exploit Kit (RigEK) to spread Raccoon.

• Software vulnerabilities. Some versions of Raccoon may exploit security vulnerabilities to infect a device.

• Fake websites. Users may also accidentally download Raccoon from fraudulent websites replicating legitimate businesses (such as anti-malware software).

Protection

Hackers may infect your device with Raccoon in many ways. The most important thing is to remain cautious online and take the necessary steps to protect yourself.

• Keep your software up to date. Raccoon may target security vulnerabilities in browsers, apps, and other software, so install updates when available.

• Only download from trusted sites. If you’re getting a new software or app, download it from trustworthy sources (such as an official app store).

• Use reliable anti-malware software. Protect your devices with reputable antivirus and anti-malware tools (downloaded from official websites).

• Stay safe on email. Raccoon may spread via spam and phishing emails, so if you get an email that sounds off or looks suspicious, be cautious.

• Browse with caution. Cybercriminals may also spread Raccoon through fake websites that look legitimate. If a URL looks suspicious, stay away from the website.

• Use Threat Protection. For a safer online experience, use Threat Protection — NordVPN’s advanced cybersecurity feature that blocks malicious sites, intrusive trackers, and potentially harmful ads. Plus, it checks the files you download for malware.