Stealerium
Also known as: –
Category: Malware
Type: Information stealer, clipper, keylogger
Platform: Windows
Variants: –
Damage potential: Data theft, unauthorized access personal accounts, fraudulent transactions, financial loss, identity theft
Overview
As suggested by its name, Stealerium is an information stealer type of malware with keylogging capabilities. It can steal a wide range of sensitive information from browsers, apps, and clipboards (such as passwords, browsing history, cookies, or cryptocurrency wallet details) and collect information about the infected device such as saved Wi-Fi networks, IP addresses, running processes, and product keys. It is designed to send the stolen data to the attackers using a Discord webhook.
Possible symptoms
Stealerium operates insidiously, so you may not notice anything until you spot a suspicious activity in your accounts. But if you suddenly experience slow computer performance, increased data usage or network activity, you may suspect an infection.
Sources of infection
If you’re not cautious online, you may accidentally download Stealerium onto your computer in the following ways:
Clicking on links or attachments in phishing emails.
Visiting malware-hosting websites.
Downloading software or files from unofficial sources, such as freeware websites or peer-to-peer networks.
Protection
Good cybersecurity practices are essential to stay clear from cyber threats.
Be careful with email attachments and links. Always check the sender and do not open suspicious attachments or links from unknown sources.
Switch on NordVPN’s Threat Protection to scan downloads for viruses and block malicious websites.
Install a reputable antivirus solution and update it regularly.
Always download software from official websites.
Do not save passwords on browsers. Consider using a password manager instead.
Use strong passwords and multi-factor authentication (MFA) to keep your accounts safe.
Make sure to clean your clipboard after copying passwords, cryptocurrency wallet details, or other sensitive information.
Removal
You can use antivirus software to remove Stealerium from an infected device. However, the effectiveness of removal depends on the capabilities of the software and the scope of the infection. Here are some steps to follow if you want to give it a try:
Make sure your antivirus software is up to date. If not, update it to the latest available version.
Disconnect from the internet.
Restart your computer in safe mode.
Run a full system scan.
Follow the instructions of your software to isolate and remove the malware.
Change your passwords (ideally on another device, not the previously infected one) and keep an eye on your online accounts for suspicious activity.
If the infection continues, get help from an IT professional.