Agent Racoon, a potent backdoor malware exploiting the .NET framework, spreads through undisclosed means, likely employing phishing and social engineering tactics.
Agent Racoon establishes communication with a Command and Control server via the DNS protocol. Operating with scheduled tasks, it executes commands, uploads/downloads files, and has been observed in attacks targeting governmental and non-profit entities.
Agent Racoon Overview
Agent Racoon, a malevolent program crafted with the .NET framework, falls into the backdoor category. Malware in this class aims to breach targeted systems by creating a covert entry point. Typically, such programs play a crucial role in the initial stages of multi-step infections. Unveiled in July 2022, the first instances of Agent Racoon traced back to a C&C (Command and Control) domain registered in August 2020.
Agent Racoon on Tirus Total site
This backdoor, in conjunction with other malicious software, has been identified in assaults against organizations in the Middle East, Africa, and the United States. Notably, Agent Racoon featured prominently in infections directed at governmental entities and non-profit organizations. Indications point to the possibility of these attacks being orchestrated by a state-backed threat actor.
| Name | Agent Racoon |
| Threat Type | Trojan, backdoor |
| Payload | Ntospy, Mimilite (custom Mimikatz) |
| Distribution methods | Infected email attachments, malicious online advertisements, social engineering, software ‘cracks’ |
| Detection | Microsoft (Trojan:MSIL/Tnega!MTB) |
| Damage | Stolen passwords and banking information, identity theft, the victim’s computer added to a botnet. |
| Fix Tool | See If Your System Has Been Affected by Agent Racoon Virus |
Technical Analysis of Agent Racoon
In the technical examination of Agent Racoon, this backdoor emerges as a pivotal component geared towards priming compromised systems for subsequent infections. To establish communication with its Command and Control (C&C) server, Agent Racoon tactically exploits the Domain Name System (DNS) protocol. Operating primarily through scheduled tasks, it refrains from employing specific persistence-ensuring techniques. Notably, the utilization of communication loops during C&C server interactions serves as a potential anti-detection measure, simultaneously reducing the risk of network jamming and activity spikes.
DNS query sample
Agent Racoon’s functionality extends to executing commands, along with the capability to upload and download files. The former facilitates the infiltration of additional malicious content, while the latter enables data exfiltration. In documented instances of Racoon attacks, Ntospy and Mimilite, a streamlined variant of Mimikatz, were deployed for credential theft. These attacks featured supplementary anti-detection tactics, incorporating the use of temporary folders and a tool designed to eradicate infection artifacts post-assault. Some malicious programs adopted disguises as Microsoft updates to further obfuscate their presence.
Spreading methods
The spreading methods of Agent Racoon are deliberately concealed, heightening its sophistication. And while specific details are unavailable, the malware likely employs common vectors associated with malicious software:
- Phishing and Social Engineering. Potential use of deceptive tactics to trick users into unknowingly downloading and executing the malware.
- DNS Protocol Communication. Establishment of communication channels through the Domain Name System (DNS) protocol for covert interactions.
- Concealing itself within diverse file formats, such as archives (ZIP, RAR), executables (.exe, .run), documents (PDF, Microsoft Office), and JavaScript.
- Ability to self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices like USB flash drives and external hard drives.
- Utilization of stealthy drive-by downloads and leveraging dubious download channels, potentially exploiting unofficial file-hosting sites or Peer-to-Peer networks.
How to remove the Agent Racoon Virus from my PC?
The most effective approach to malware removal from your device involves utilizing anti-malware software. I recommend GridinSoft Anti-Malware as it offers a rapid, lightweight, and highly efficient security solution capable of effectively thwarting a wide range of threats, including Agent Racoon Virus. You can explore its capabilities during a 6-day free trial period.
While manual removal of the threat is technically possible, I strongly discourage this method. In its pursuit of establishing persistence, Malware generates numerous instances of itself, making it exceedingly difficult to trace all its components manually. Consequently, manual removal can be time-consuming and often yield minimal to no results. Below, I have assembled a guide outlining the most effective removal practices for Agent Racoon Virus.
Remove Agent Racoon with Gridinsoft Anti-Malware
We have also been using this software on our systems ever since, and it has always been successful in detecting viruses. It has blocked the most common Stealers as shown from our tests with the software, and we assure you that it can remove Agent Racoon as well as other malware hiding on your computer.
To use Gridinsoft for remove malicious threats, follow the steps below:
1. Begin by downloading Gridinsoft Anti-Malware, accessible via the blue button below or directly from the official website gridinsoft.com.
2.Once the Gridinsoft setup file (setup-gridinsoft-fix.exe) is downloaded, execute it by clicking on the file.
3.Follow the installation setup wizard's instructions diligently.
4. Access the "Scan Tab" on the application's start screen and launch a comprehensive "Full Scan" to examine your entire computer. This inclusive scan encompasses the memory, startup items, the registry, services, drivers, and all files, ensuring that it detects malware hidden in all possible locations.
Be patient, as the scan duration depends on the number of files and your computer's hardware capabilities. Use this time to relax or attend to other tasks.
5. Upon completion, Anti-Malware will present a detailed report containing all the detected malicious items and threats on your PC.
6. Select all the identified items from the report and confidently click the "Clean Now" button. This action will safely remove the malicious files from your computer, transferring them to the secure quarantine zone of the anti-malware program to prevent any further harmful actions.
8. If prompted, restart your computer to finalize the full system scan procedure. This step is crucial to ensure thorough removal of any remaining threats. After the restart, Gridinsoft Anti-Malware will open and display a message confirming the completion of the scan.
Remember Gridinsoft offers a 6-day free trial. This means you can take advantage of the trial period at no cost to experience the full benefits of the software and prevent any future malware infections on your system. Embrace this opportunity to fortify your computer's security without any financial commitment.
Trojan Killer for “Agent Racoon” removal on locked PC
In situations where it becomes impossible to download antivirus applications directly onto the infected computer due to malware blocking access to websites, an alternative solution is to utilize the Trojan Killer application.
There is a really little number of security tools that are able to be set up on the USB drives, and antiviruses that can do so in most cases require to obtain quite an expensive license. For this instance, I can recommend you to use another solution of GridinSoft - Trojan Killer Portable. It has a 14-days cost-free trial mode that offers the entire features of the paid version. This term will definitely be 100% enough to wipe malware out.
Trojan Killer is a valuable tool in your cybersecurity arsenal, helping you to effectively remove malware from infected computers. Now, we will walk you through the process of using Trojan Killer from a USB flash drive to scan and remove malware on an infected PC. Remember, always obtain permission to scan and remove malware from a computer that you do not own.
Step 1: Download & Install Trojan Killer on a Clean Computer:
1. Go to the official GridinSoft website (gridinsoft.com) and download Trojan Killer to a computer that is not infected.
2. Insert a USB flash drive into this computer.
3. Install Trojan Killer to the "removable drive" following the on-screen instructions.
4. Once the installation is complete, launch Trojan Killer.
Step 2: Update Signature Databases:
5. After launching Trojan Killer, ensure that your computer is connected to the Internet.
6. Click "Update" icon to download the latest signature databases, which will ensure the tool can detect the most recent threats.
Step 3: Scan the Infected PC:
7. Safely eject the USB flash drive from the clean computer.
8. Boot the infected computer to the Safe Mode.
9. Insert the USB flash drive.
10. Run tk.exe
11. Once the program is open, click on "Full Scan" to begin the malware scanning process.
Step 4: Remove Found Threats:
12. After the scan is complete, Trojan Killer will display a list of detected threats.
13. Click on "Cure PC!" to remove the identified malware from the infected PC.
14. Follow any additional on-screen prompts to complete the removal process.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer:
15. Once the threats are removed, click on "Restart PC" to reboot your computer.
16. Remove the USB flash drive from the infected computer.
Congratulations on effectively removing Agent Racoon and the concealed threats from your computer! You can now have peace of mind, knowing that they won't resurface again. Thanks to Gridinsoft's capabilities and commitment to cybersecurity, your system is now protected.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Reformatting your storage device should only be considered as a last resort for removing Agent Racoon malware. Prior to taking such drastic action, it is advisable to perform a comprehensive scan using trustworthy antivirus or anti-malware software.
Malware poses a significant risk to the security and privacy of sensitive information, potentially leading to identity theft, financial loss, and unauthorized access to personal accounts. Furthermore, it can disrupt the normal operation of a system, causing performance issues, system crashes, and data corruption.
The purpose of Agent Racoon is to enable remote access and control of compromised devices. It allows threat actors to perform various malicious activities, such as unauthorized access, data theft, system manipulation, and disabling security measures, potentially causing significant harm to individuals and organizations.
Gridinsoft Anti-Malware has the ability to identify and eliminate most malware infections. Nevertheless, it is crucial to recognize that sophisticated malware can remain hidden deep within the system. Consequently, conducting a complete system scan is imperative to detect and eradicate malware.
How to Remove Agent Racoon Malware
Name: Agent Racoon
Description: Agent Racoon, a malicious .NET-based backdoor, elusively spreads through undisclosed methods, possibly exploiting phishing and social engineering. The malware, adept at disguising itself in diverse file formats, initiates an infection chain upon file opening. Notably, it establishes communication via DNS, employing communication loops to evade detection. Operating discreetly, it executes commands and facilitates the upload/download of files, including deployment in credential theft attacks with Ntospy and Mimilite. Its clandestine propagation and versatile actions underscore its sophistication, posing a substantial threat in the evolving landscape of cyber intrusions.
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Malware
