Also known as: Matanbuchus Loader, AveBelial
Category: Malware
Type: Loader, dropper, trojan, fileless malware
Platform: Windows
Variants: Win32/Matanbuchus, O97M.MATANBUCHUS.A, Win32/Matanbuchus!mclg, MatanbuchusDroper.dll, shell96.dll, ddg.dll, Trojan:JS/Obfuse.PRBF!MTB, Trojan-Downloader.Office.Doc (IKARUS)
Damage potential: Deployment of secondary malware, data theft, ransomware attacks, compromised computer systems, or entire networks.
Overview
Matanbuchus is a malware loader that’s been sold as malware as a service (MaaS) on dark web forums since early 2021. It’s believed to have been created by a hacker known as BelialDemon, who was also linked to another type of malware called TriumphLoader. Matanbuchus is sold through Russian-speaking cybercrime forums on a subscription basis, typically costing between US$2,500 and US$4,500 monthly. Access is often limited to a small group of clients to reduce exposure.
It is designed to help execute second-stage payloads, including remote access tools and ransomware. Matanbuchus is mainly known for its ability to run “.exe” and “.dll” files directly in memory, execute custom PowerShell commands, and stay persistent by setting up scheduled tasks. Matanbuchus has been used in attacks targeting educational institutions in the United States and a high-tech organization in Belgium.
Once on a system, Matanbachus uses various techniques to avoid being detected, including anti-analysis checks from security software. These evasion methods make it harder for security software to catch the malware, which makes it extremely dangerous.
Possible symptoms
Matanbuchus is designed to be stealthy, so it might not be obvious right away that it has infiltrated your computer system. However, some signs to watch for include:
- Slower computer performance, overheating, or frequent crashes.
- Increased network traffic or strange internet connections.
- New files or folders you didn’t create.
- New or unexpected programs appearing on your system.
- Changes to system settings or desktop appearance.
- Suspicious PowerShell execution in logs.
Sources of the infection
Matanbuchus’s delivery methods have changed a lot over time, but some of the most common ways it can get onto your computer are:
- Malicious downloads through phishing emails (the malware often comes as infected Excel attachments that ask you to “enable content” or “enable macros”).
- Fake software installers.
- Drive-by downloads from compromised websites.
- Exploit kits that scan a visitor’s device for known software flaws and automatically install malware if a weakness is found.
- Third-party file-sharing platforms and torrents.
Protection
You can protect your computer from Matanbuchus and similar threats by following safe digital habits:
- Be careful with email attachments, especially Excel or Word files asking you to enable macros. If you're not sure which email attachments are safe to open, avoid interacting with the email at all.
- Only download software from trusted websites, and avoid cracked or pirated programs.
- Updating your systems and software is essential. Make sure your operating system and antivirus software are always up to date to protect against the latest threats.
- Avoid visiting unverified or suspicious websites that may host harmful files. Always check suspicious links before clicking.
- Use NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ to block malicious websites and harmful ads.
Matanbuchus removal
If you suspect that Matanbuchus has infected your device:
- Disconnect the device from the internet to prevent further communication with command and control servers.
- Boot your computer in safe mode to prevent the malware from running.
- Use updated security software to perform a full system scan and remove detected threats.
- Review scheduled tasks and startup entries for unauthorized additions.
- Manually delete all possibly malicious files that you don’t recognize.
- Change all passwords, especially for admin or sensitive accounts.
- If you're not sure the malware is completely gone, it’s safest to reinstall your whole system and restore your files from clean backups.
If you're uncertain or unable to remove the malware manually yourself, it’s best to seek professional assistance.