Skip to main content
Home TrueBot

TrueBot

Also known as: Silence.Downloader

Category: Malware

Type: Downloader trojan

Platform: Windows

Variants: TrueBot v1, TrueBot v2

Damage potential: Downloads and executes additional malicious payloads, exfiltrates data, and facilitates further attacks by other malware or threat actors.

Overview

TrueBot malware, categorized as a downloader trojan, primarily targets Windows platforms. Once TrueBot infects a system, it typically downloads and executes additional malicious payloads. First linked to the Silence hacking group, TrueBot has since evolved, rolling out new versions to become more effective at bypassing security measures.

Once executed, this malware connects with its command-and-control servers to receive instructions and download further malware, such as ransomware, data stealers, or other trojans. TrueBot also has botnet and loader/injector capabilities, which means it can add its victims’ devices to a botnet and cause chain system infections by installing even more malicious programs.

Attackers also use this malware to plant backdoors and conduct basic network reconnaissance. Recent TrueBot versions typically collect a screenshot, the computer name, the local network name, and Active Directory trust relations from its victims’ devices. Collecting Active Directory trust relations allows TrueBot to map out the trust relationships between different domains within the network. This information is valuable for hackers because it helps them understand the network’s structure and identify potential pathways for lateral movement.

Possible symptoms

TrueBot typically slows down your computer performance because it runs additional malicious processes in the background, such as downloading and executing further payloads or collecting and transmitting system information. Other possible symptoms include:

  • Unexpected system crashes.
  • Slow or unresponsive system performance.
  • Unauthorized changes in system settings.
  • Unknown processes in the task manager that you didn’t initiate.
  • Random pop-ups and fake alerts.
  • Unexpected redirects to unfamiliar sites.
  • Spikes in network activity.
  • Turned off security programs.
  • Inability to access certain websites.

Sources of infection

TrueBot malware primarily spreads through phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links. These emails often appear legitimate, tricking you into opening the attachment or clicking the link, which then downloads and installs the malware.

Sometimes, attackers distribute TrueBot via compromised websites, where you unknowingly download the malware by interacting with the infected site. Once installed, TrueBot can further propagate by exploiting vulnerabilities in network security to infect other systems within the same network.

Protection

The most effective way to protect against TrueBot is to educate yourself about malware and online threats, such as phishing attacks. Other countermeasures against TrueBot include:

  • Using antivirus software. Purchase a reputable antivirus software with real-time protection to prevent TrueBot.
  • Regularly updating your programs. Keep your operating system, browsers, and all applications up to date to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Using Threat Protection Pro. Purchase NordVPN with an advanced Threat Protection Pro feature that blocks malicious ads and suspicious sites and scans files for malware as you download them. This feature will help you avoid stumbling upon a corrupted website and downloading a malicious file.
  • Filtering email. Use advanced email filtering solutions to block phishing emails and malicious attachments.
  • Avoiding suspicious links and attachments. Never click on unfamiliar links or suspicious attachments, especially from unknown senders.
  • Implementing network security. Set up firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection to detect and prevent TrueBot.
  • Using NordPass. Never keep your passwords written in plain text on your computer. Use a trusty password manager like NordPass, which allows you to store all your credentials under one master password.
  • Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.

Removal

If you suspect that TrueBot has infected your system, immediately disconnect your device from the internet and restart your computer in safe mode. Then run a full antivirus scan and remove the malware.

Once you have removed TrueBot from your system, change all your online account passwords to protect your data from further damage. If the malware persists, contact a cybersecurity professional. They’ll know what to do.