S1deload Stealer is a cunning information-stealing malware, which spreads through social engineering tactics via deceptive comments on Facebook pages containing enticing adult-themed archives.
Once infiltrated, it deploys a twin-sided strategy: a seemingly legitimate executable with Western Digital’s digital signature, coupled with a concealed malicious DLL (WDSync.dll). This duo orchestrates a range of insidious actions, from pilfering login credentials and cookies to mining BEAM cryptocurrency. S1deload embodies the intersection of artful propagation and multifaceted cyber exploits.
S1deload Malware Overview
S1deload represents an information-stealing malware variant designed to specifically target Facebook and YouTube accounts. Additionally, it harnesses compromised computer systems for the purpose of cryptocurrency mining. The nomenclature “S1deload” is attributed to its pronounced reliance on DLL sideloading as a strategic detection evasion technique. In carrying out its malevolent operations, cybercriminals exploit social engineering tactics and leverage Facebook comments. This throws users into installing malware into their computers.
| Name | S1deload Stealer |
| Detection | Trojan:MSIL/Malgent!MSR |
| Threat type | Infostealer/Account hijacker |
| Similar Behavior | WhiskerSpy, NightClub |
| Damage | Hijacks social media accounts, uses hardware to mine cryptocurrencies. |
| Fix Tool | See If Your System Has Been Affected by S1deload Stealer Virus |
Technical Analysis of S1deload Malware
Upon gaining a foothold on a targeted device, S1deload uses wide array of functions. But first, it establishes a connection with its command-and-control server, following the instructions from the config. Among its main functions supplementary components downloading and execution. Initial payload has only bare minimum of functions needed to make things happen. Additional modules are what make all the functionality S1deload has. A notable example is the deployment of a headless Chrome web browser, designed to operate surreptitiously in the background and replicate human browsing patterns. This operational scheme serves the purpose of artificially inflating engagement metrics, such as view counts, on social media content like YouTube videos and Facebook posts.
S1deload also demonstrates the capability to introduce a data-stealing module, enabling the extraction of stored login credentials and cookies from the victim’s browser, along with data retrieved from the Login Data SQLite database. Moreover, it boasts the capacity to implant a cryptojacking module dedicated to mining the BEAM cryptocurrency. The purloined credentials play a dual role: they empower the malware author to propagate the malware across social media channels, while concurrently perpetuating the infection cycle.
Upon the successful compromise of a Facebook account, S1deload takes a step further by embarking on an assessment of the account’s potential value. To undertake this evaluation, the malware capitalizes on the Facebook Graph API, probing factors such as the victim’s administrative privileges over a Facebook page or group, involvement in paid advertisements, and connections to a business manager account.
Spreading methods
The infiltration of S1deload to the target system is commonly done through the use of social engineering maneuvers. They effectively deceive the victim, make them think every piece of the offer is legit. This process was initiated by cybercriminals who adeptly exploited the comments section of Facebook pages, orchestrating a bait-and-hook strategy. The bait comprised seemingly innocuous archive files with enticing names like AlbumGirlSexy.zip, HDSexyGirl.zip, and SexyGirlAlbum.zip. Deceptively masked within these archives were the underlying threats.
Upon downloading these archives, unsuspecting users were confronted with a dual-pronged assault. The first component was an executable file adorned with a seemingly legitimate digital signature from Western Digital, thereby lending an air of credibility. However, concealed within the same package lay the sinister WDSync.dll, a malicious DLL that served as the delivery vessel for the actual malware, S1deload.
How to remove and prevent S1deload malware?
The best strategy for finding suitable malware counteraction ways is analyzing its spreading approaches. By defeating the chances of malicious files being introduced to your system, you make it impossible to get your system infected. There, the most obvious advice is to avoid questionable groups and communities on social media. Adult content, cryptocurrency services, AI-related topics – all these have become a popular area of a scam. Stop interacting with them, and you will have much less chances to become a victim of malware attack.
As the second line of defense, I’d recommend having proper anti-malware software. To prevent S1deloader specifically, keep an eye on programs that are capable of archived files scanning. Therefore, even if an infected archive makes it to your device, you will have no problems with identifying its malignancy and removing the threat. GridinSoft Anti-Malware is one you can rely on with such a task. It is not only capable of detecting malware within archives, but is also effective against all modern types of threats.
Remove S1deload Stealer 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 S1deload Stealer 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 “S1deload Stealer” 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 S1deload Stealer 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 S1deload Stealer 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 S1deload Stealer 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 S1deload Stealer Malware
Name: S1deload Stealer
Description: S1deload stealer is a sneaky malware that exploits quite an unusual way of spreading. It aims at gathering personal data and passwords, and also tries to use system's hardware to mine BEAM cryptocurrency. It pays exceptional attention to Facebook accounts, seeking for ones with admin rights in groups, paid advertising campaign, or so.
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Malware
