Also known as: win.venom
Category: Malware
Type: Trojan, remote access trojan (RAT), backdoor, dropper
Platform: Windows
Variants: Win32/VenomRat.RPX!MTB, Win32/VenomRAT!MSR
Damage potential: Remote control, data theft, deployment of additional payloads, keylogging, and surveillance
Overview
VenomRAT is a remote access trojan (RAT) that gives cybercriminals full control over infected Windows computers. First seen around mid-2020, it is often traded on underground forums and used with other malware, such as cryptocurrency clippers and data stealers.
VenomRAT is a reworked version of QuasarRAT, reusing much of its code. Once installed, VenomRAT lets attackers monitor the victim’s activity, steal sensitive information, and install more malware. It’s a common tool in money-driven cybercrime campaigns and usually appears as part of bigger, multi-step attacks.
Possible symptoms
VenomRAT tries to avoid detection, but you may notice some unusual symptoms:
- Slower system performance or frequent crashes.
- Higher and unexplained CPU or battery usage.
- New or unknown processes running in the Task Manager.
- Unexpected pop-ups or system errors.
- Unusual network activity and high traffic.
- Connections to unknown servers.
- Added or modified files or lower storage space.
- Disabled security software or altered firewall settings.
Sources of the infection
VenomRAT may get onto the device through:
- Phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links.
- Drive-by downloads from malicious websites or ads.
- Trojanized installers from pirated software.
- Malware loaders.
- Exploitation of vulnerabilities in software or systems.
Protection
The best way to stay safe from VenomRAT or any other malware is to follow basic cybersecurity practices:
- Do not click on suspicious links or attachments in emails, especially if they come from unknown senders.
- Keep your software updated to ensure you have the latest security patches.
- Download software only from official sources, like the app store or the developer’s website.
- Use a firewall to monitor and control incoming and outgoing network traffic.
- Use security software like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ to block malicious websites and harmful ads.
VenomRAT removal
The quickest, safest, and most dependable way to eliminate VenomRAT is to wipe your system entirely. However, if you haven’t backed up your files and want to keep them, you can try these steps instead:
- 1.Disconnect the infected computer from the network to stop the malware from spreading further.
- 2.Boot Windows into safe mode to limit the malware’s ability to run.
- 3.Perform a full system scan with trusted and updated antivirus software.
- 4.Manually inspect running processes in the Task Manager for any unfamiliar or suspicious activity and end them.
- 5.Restart your computer and run another full scan to make sure no traces are left.
- 6.After removal, change all your passwords because they may have been compromised.
