PSW.Stealer, Trojan-PWS

Posted: December 23, 2023

from Cybersecurity Glossary

Aliases:

Trojan-PWS, Trojan-PSW

Category:

Information Stealer

Platform:

Windows

Damage:

Stolen Passwords, Unauthorized Account Access, Data Theft, Further Malicious Downloads, File Manipulation, And Damage

Risk Level:

High

PSW.Stealer, a computer trojan specializing in stealing sensitive data, poses a significant threat to Windows operating systems. With a focus on extracting online banking credentials, port numbers, IP addresses, and system certificates, this trojan also exhibits the ability to monitor browsing activities, install malicious software, and make alterations to system files.

Possible symptoms

Unusual network traffic, particularly an increase in data sent from the infected system
Anomalies in system behavior, such as unexpected system slowdowns or freezes
Unauthorized access or login attempts on various accounts
Changes in system or application configurations without user intervention
Presence of unfamiliar processes or services in the task manager
Detection of password-related anomalies, such as failed login attempts or password changes without user action

Sources of the infection

Malicious email attachments or links that, when opened, execute the trojan on the user's system
Drive-by downloads from compromised or malicious websites
Exploitation of software vulnerabilities, especially if the operating system or applications are not up-to-date
Infiltration through malicious software bundling or piggybacking on seemingly legitimate software installations
Compromised network shares or removable storage devices used for file transfer
Social engineering tactics, where users are tricked into executing the trojan through deceptive practices

Overview

PSW.Stealer, also known as Trojan-PWS, is a sophisticated information stealer targeting Windows systems. This malicious program is specifically designed to extract sensitive data, posing serious risks such as stolen passwords, unauthorized account access, data theft, further malicious downloads, file manipulation, and system damage.

With a primary focus on compromising Windows operating systems, PSW.Stealer exhibits a significant threat by extracting online banking credentials, port numbers, IP addresses, and system certificates. Moreover, this trojan has the capability to monitor browsing activities, install malicious software, and make alterations to system files, amplifying the potential for harm.

The symptoms of a PSW.Stealer infection include unusual network traffic, unexpected system slowdowns, unauthorized access or login attempts on various accounts, changes in system or application configurations without user intervention, unfamiliar processes or services in the task manager, and password-related anomalies such as failed login attempts or unauthorized password changes.

Sources of infection range from malicious email attachments and links to drive-by downloads from compromised websites. Exploitation of software vulnerabilities, malicious software bundling, compromised network shares, removable storage devices, and social engineering tactics are also common vectors for the trojan.

If you suspect your system is infected with PSW.Stealer, immediate action is crucial. Conduct a thorough scan using a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware to detect and remove the trojan. Change all passwords, especially those related to online banking and sensitive accounts, to prevent unauthorized access. Consider restoring your system from a clean backup and monitor for unusual activity. Consult with cybersecurity professionals if needed.

To prevent PSW.Stealer infections, adhere to security measures such as keeping your operating system and software up-to-date, using reliable anti-malware tools, exercising caution when clicking on links or downloading attachments, enabling a firewall, using strong, unique passwords, implementing two-factor authentication, regularly backing up important data, and educating yourself and users about phishing techniques and social engineering attacks.

🤔 What to do?

If you suspect your system is infected with PSW.Stealer, take immediate action to minimize damage. Perform a thorough scan using a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware to detect and remove the trojan. Change all passwords, especially those related to online banking and sensitive accounts, to prevent unauthorized access.

Consider restoring your system from a clean backup to ensure complete removal of the malware. If any critical files are compromised, restore them from backups as well.

Additionally, monitor your system for any unusual activity, and consult with cybersecurity professionals if needed.

🛡️ Prevention

To prevent PSW.Stealer infections, practice the following security measures:

Keep your operating system and software up-to-date with the latest security patches.
Use a Gridinsoft Anti-Malware and keep it regularly updated.
Exercise caution when clicking on links or downloading attachments, especially from unknown or suspicious sources.
Enable a firewall and configure it to block unauthorized access.
Use strong, unique passwords for all accounts and consider implementing two-factor authentication (2FA) where possible.
Regularly back up your important data to an external and secure location.
Educate yourself and your users about phishing techniques and social engineering attacks.

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