Also known as: “Agent” is an umbrella term for trojan malware and may have many different names depending on the variants, like Trojan:W32/Agent, BehavesLike:Win32.Malware, Trojan.Agent, Win32.Trojan.Agent
Category: Malware
Type: Trojan
Platform: Windows
Variants: There are many variants of the Agent malware, for example Trojan:W32/Agent.AFB, Trojan-Downloader:W32/Agent.BRK, Trojan-Downloader:W32/Agent.EYA, Trojan-Dropper:W32/Agent.PR. The exact names and classification differ based on the software or researcher that detects them.
Damage potential: Most Trojan.Agent variants will download and install adware or malware on your device that could infect your files, install backdoors, steal private information, add your device to a botnet, install ransomware, and take over control of your computer.
Overview
Trojan.Agent is a malware class that is characterized by its ability to infiltrate systems by pretending to be benign software. Once installed, it can silently steal sensitive information, download and install other malware, or add the computer to a botnet. Because of its secret nature, Trojan.Agent malware poses a significant threat to Windows users and their data.
Possible symptoms
The symptoms of a Trojan.Agent infection can vary widely based on the specific variant. Here are some common signs to look out for:
- The computer starts to behave erratically, crash more frequently, or run slower than usual.
- Unfamiliar processes appear in the Task Manager, or CPU usage increases without apparent reason.
- You notice large amounts of data being sent from your machine.
- Files on your device are altered or deleted, while new files or software appear out of nowhere.
- Antivirus software is disabled or won’t update.
- Pop-ups start appearing, or your browser redirects you to random websites.
- Slow internet speeds or regular network crashes.
Sources of the infection
Trojan.Agent typically infects a device by tricking a user into executing the file a trojan is hiding in. The file may end up on the device in several different ways:
- Infected downloads. Getting software from unofficial or untrustworthy sources is the easiest way to download a trojan bundled up in the same package.
- Emails. Both malicious email attachments disguised as common files (.docx, .pdf, and similar) and links that lead to malware-ridden websites could result in Trojan.Agent ending up on your computer.
- Removable drives. Infected USB drives or other removable media can spread malware when connected to a device.
Protection
To protect yourself against Trojan.Agent and other trojans, you need to be cautious while browsing and especially when you’re downloading software. It's also a good idea to use additional cybersecurity solutions, like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro, to stop malware before it downloads to your device. Threat Protection Pro will also alert you if you’re about to enter a known infected website to prevent drive-by-download attacks.
Trojan.Agent removal
Removing a Trojan.Agent can be tricky due to its stealthy nature and because it often tries to reinstall itself. A robust antivirus might help, but it’s important to keep it up to date. Nevertheless, in some cases, a full system reset could be required.
