WikiLoader malware is a highly-sophisticated loader threat that uses numerous detection evasion tricks and aims at delivering other malware. Its key spreading way is spear phishing emails. Most often, Wikiloader spreads ransomware and stealers of different families.
What is WikiLoader Malware?
WikiLoader is a sophisticated loader-type malware. This category of malicious programs is designed to cause chain infections, meaning it downloads and installs additional malware.
Results of WikiLoader analysis on VirusTotal
Since at least December 2022, WikiLoader has existed, and there are several versions of this program. Multiple campaigns have noted this loader, with the majority targeting various organizations based in Italy. Some evidence suggests that threat actors may offer WikiLoader for sale, as a couple of different threat actors have used it. Large-scale email spam campaigns have been observed distributing this malware.
Wikiloader Malware – Threat Description
The appearance of WikiLoader malware has raised significant concerns among cybersecurity experts. With multiple variants in existence, it is evident that this malicious program is actively under development even at the time of writing. The developers of WikiLoader have employed a range of cunning techniques to evade detection and complicate analysis. These tactics include robust obfuscation, intricate looping scripts, and the ability to detect and avoid sandboxes. Furthermore, the malware cleverly erases any traces of file download artifacts to further cover its tracks.
WikiLoader analysis on FileScan.io sandbox. The result says about extensive software packing
A distinguishing feature of WikiLoader is its unique method of verifying the target system’s connectivity to the Internet. By making an encrypted HTTPS request to Wikipedia and checking for the presence of specific strings, such as “The Free” found on Wikipedia’s homepage, the malware can ascertain whether it has infiltrated a genuine system or a virtual machine. Hence, the moniker “WikiLoader” aptly describes this loader’s behavior, though it is important to note that the malware can adapt and send requests to other URLs for the same purpose.
| Name | WikiLoader |
| Detection | WikiLoader |
| Similar behavior | Trojan, Trojan, Trojan |
| Damage | Exploits your hardware to mine cryptocurrencies without your permission. |
| Fix Tool | See If Your System Has Been Affected by WikiLoader Virus |
Infection stages
The infection process of WikiLoader unfolds in multiple stages, typically taking up to an hour to complete. In past observations, the final payload of these infections was often the notorious Ursnif information-stealing malware. However, the loader’s capabilities extend beyond this, as it has the potential to introduce various other malicious programs into compromised systems.
While theoretically, WikiLoader can download and install any type of malware, it appears to operate within specific boundaries. It has such behavior to ensure its successful execution without drawing undue attention. As with any sophisticated malware, developers continually refine and enhance their creations. Therefore, it is reasonable to expect that future releases of WikiLoader could introduce additional or different functionalities.
In conclusion, the menace posed by WikiLoader and its ilk cannot be underestimated. The potential consequences of infections include severe system compromise, data loss, privacy breaches, financial losses, and even identity theft. As cybersecurity measures evolve, so does the complexity and risk of modern malware, making it crucial for organizations and individuals alike to remain vigilant against these persistent threats.
How did I get WikiLoader in my system?
WikiLoader has been observed being spread in mass-scale spam campaigns. In one of them, over 150,000 emails were sent. These letters included Microsoft Excel, Microsoft OneNote, or PDF documents attached to them. The emails distributing malicious Excel documents were disguised as messages from the local tax authorities. These files relied on malicious macro commands to infect systems.
The example of email spam
The OneNote documents had malicious executables embedded into them. While the PDFs contained links leading to the download of an archived JavaScript file. However, other disguises, file formats, and techniques could be used in WikiLoader’s proliferation. The most widely used distribution methods include malicious attachments/links in spam mail, illegal software activation tools, and fake updates.
Remove WikiLoader 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 loader malware as shown from our tests with the software, and we assure you that it can remove WikiLoader 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 “WikiLoader” 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 WikiLoader 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 WikiLoader 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 WikiLoader 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 WikiLoader Malware
Name: WikiLoader
Description: WikiLoader is a highly evasive loader malware that targets specifically on Italian govt organizations. It received its name for checking for the infected system connection to the Internet through a request to Wikipedia site. WikiLoader malware mostly spreads through email spam, hiding inside of infected MS Outlook attacments.
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Malware
