Also known as: Trojan.Clicker, Trojan-Clicker
Category: Malware
Type: Trojan
Platform: Windows, Android
Damage potential: Click fraud, ad fraud, unauthorized web traffic generation, data theft, financial loss, network abuse, reputation compromise
Trojan Clicker is a type of malware used in click fraud. It hijacks your device to generate fake clicks on online ads, funneling money into the pockets of cybercriminals. Once on your system, it silently operates in the background, creating unauthorized connections to websites. These activities not only drain your system's resources and slow it down but also expose you to potential security risks, such as the leakage of personal or sensitive data.
This malware often disguises itself as something harmless, like a battery optimizer app or other seemingly useful tools on app stores like Google Play. It can infiltrate your device through downloads from malicious websites, phishing emails, malvertising, or as a file dropped by another piece of malware. Trojan Clickers may also form part of larger cybercrime operations, contributing to botnets or massive ad fraud campaigns that cost businesses billions of dollars annually.
Possible symptoms
Trojan Clicker infections can be tricky to detect at first, but most people realize their device is compromised when they spot a suspicious process in Task Manager or an unfamiliar program in the Uninstall Programs panel. Possible symptoms of a Trojan Clicker infection include:
- Unusual browser behavior (such as unexplained redirects to unknown websites).
- Persistent notifications or ads (ads may appear even outside the browser).
- Slower system performance.
- Increased battery usage (more evident on mobile devices).
- Presence of added or modified files.
- Unusual network activity (constant and excessive internet traffic without a clear source).
- Increased CPU and RAM usage.
- Unexplained data usage (noticeable spikes in data consumption).
- Crashing or freezing apps.
Sources of the infection
The sources of infection for Trojan Clicker are similar to those of many trojans and can include:
- Phishing links. If you have clicked on a malicious link or malvertising or opened an unsafe attachment, you may unknowingly download Trojan Clicker. This risk also applies to phishing emails, SMS messages, or links shared via messaging apps.
- Compromised software. You may unknowingly download Trojan Clicker by installing software from untrusted sources, particularly pirated applications or cracks. Even legitimate software can sometimes come bundled with unwanted or malicious components.
- Drive-by downloads. Users may accidentally download Trojan Clicker when they visit a compromised or malicious website. This process is known as a drive-by download, where malware is automatically downloaded and installed without the user's knowledge.
- Exploitation of cybersecurity vulnerabilities. Trojan Clicker can infiltrate a device by exploiting unpatched cybersecurity vulnerabilities in operating systems, browsers, or plugins.
- Fake updates. The malware may disguise itself as a legitimate update for your software, operating system, or browser.
- Compromised ads. Ads embedded in legitimate websites may contain malicious code, which can trigger the download of Trojan Clicker when clicked or, in some cases, simply viewed. Malvertising often leverages exploit kits to infect devices without user interaction.
- Social engineering scams. Fake tech support scams or deceptive pop-ups can trick users into downloading Trojan Clicker.
- Malicious mobile apps. Trojan Clicker can be downloaded through malicious apps, especially those obtained from unofficial app stores or third-party websites.
Protection
Consider these measures to protect your device and personal information:
- Regularly update your software. Keep your software updated to protect your devices from the latest cybersecurity threats.
- Download updates and software from trusted sources. Only use official and reliable sources for downloads to avoid inadvertently installing malicious software.
- Be wary of phishing emails. Trojan Clicker can spread via phishing and spam emails. If you get an email that sounds off or urges you to click on a link, act with caution.
- Stay alert while browsing. Hackers may use malicious ads or create fake websites that look legitimate to spread Trojan Clicker and other trojans. Pay close attention to the websites you visit, and be cautious about the links you click on.
- Enable firewalls. Use network firewalls to monitor and filter malicious traffic.
- Use NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™. Tools like NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ can block access to known malicious sites and apps, adding an additional layer of protection while browsing online. This feature scans the files you download and, if malware is detected, instantly deletes it.
Trojan Clicker removal
Removing Trojan Clicker from a Windows or an Android device might seem tricky, but it’s doable with the right tools. Follow this guide to ensure you eliminate all traces of the malware:
- 1.Disconnect from the internet. Disconnect your computer or phone from Wi-Fi or turn off mobile data to stop the malware from communicating with remote servers and downloading more harmful files.
- 2.Boot into safe mode. Restart your device in safe mode to prevent Trojan Clicker from running and interfering with the removal process.
- 3.Run a full system scan. Open a trusted antivirus or anti-malware program and perform a full scan. Ensure the antivirus program is up-to-date so it can identify and remove the latest threats.
- 4.Remove suspicious programs. Open the list of installed applications on your device and carefully examine it. Uninstall any program you don’t recognize, especially apps installed recently. Trojan Clicker often hides as utility apps or tools, so scrutinize each app closely.
- 5.Clear browser data. Reset your browser to its original settings. Delete all cookies, browsing history, and cached files to remove any traces of malware. Trojan Clicker often alters browser configurations, so this step ensures it no longer affects your web activity.
- 6.Restore your system to a clean state. Use a backup made before the infection or reset your device to factory settings. If you don’t have a backup, reinstall the operating system to eliminate deeply embedded malware.
If you're still facing issues, consider seeking professional help to ensure full removal.
