Zaraza Stealer Malware Removal

Zaraza, a type of malware known as a stealer, operates by extracting (stealing) information from infected systems and installed applications, posing serious threats to user privacy. The term “Zaraza” is a slang word in Russian that can be likened to the word “infection”.

Once Zaraza infiltrates a device, it begins collecting relevant data such as the operating system version, hardware details, device name, user account name, IP addresses (geolocations), and more.

Zaraza Stealer Overview

As mentioned earlier, Zaraza and similar stealers can obtain data from both the system and the software installed on it. This malware is capable of downloading system and user files. It can extract data from various applications, including browsers, email clients, messengers, password managers, cryptocurrency wallets, FTPs, gaming-related software, VPNs, and more.

The information targeted by Zaraza includes browsing activity, Internet cookies, log-in credentials (IDs, usernames, email addresses, passwords, passphrases, etc.), personally identifiable information, finance-related data, credit card numbers, and more. The collected information can be sold to third parties or exploited for profit. It’s important to note that stealer-type malware may have additional functionalities, and future iterations can come with new features.

In summary, having software like Zaraza on devices can lead to severe privacy issues, significant financial losses, and even identity theft. If you suspect your device is infected with the Zaraza stealer or any other malware, it’s crucial to use an antivirus immediately to eliminate it.

Stealer-type malware examples

How did Zaraza infiltrate your computer?

Now, let’s discuss how Zaraza infiltrates computers. Malware primarily spreads using phishing and social engineering techniques. Malicious software is often disguised as or bundled with ordinary programs or media.

Infectious files can be in the form of documents (e.g., Microsoft OneNote, Microsoft Office, PDF, etc.), archives (e.g., ZIP, RAR, etc.), executables (e.g., .exe, .run, etc.), JavaScript, and more. When such a file is executed, run, or opened, the infection process is triggered.

Furthermore, some malicious programs can self-spread through local networks and removable storage devices such as external hard drives and USB flash drives.

To avoid installing malware, it’s strongly recommended to exercise caution while browsing since fraudulent and malicious online content often appears legitimate and harmless. Opening attachments or links found in suspicious or irrelevant emails and messages is not advised, as they can be infectious.

Downloading only from official and verified sources is another recommendation. Activating and updating software using functions and tools provided by genuine developers is advised, as illegal activation tools and third-party updaters can contain malware.

Updates of Zaraza Stealer

Update May 5, 2023

The malware utilizes various tactics such as obfuscation, masquerading, and screen capture to avoid detection and bypass security measures.

Update April 24, 2023

A new variant of Zaraza has been discovered. This iteration has been observed being promoted through Russian hacker channels on Telegram. The stealer targets over thirty browsers, including Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, Yandex, Torch, Kometa, and more. Zaraza has sophisticated log-in credential extraction and decryption abilities. The stolen information is sent to the attackers via Telegram. Additionally, this malware can take screenshots of active windows.

The full list of targeted browsers includes 7Star, Amigo, AVAST Software, AVG Browser, Blisk, Brave Browser, CentBrowser, Chedot, Chrome, Chromium | SRWare Iron Browser, Citrio, CocCoc, Coowon, CoolNovo, Edge Chromium, Elements Browser, Epic Privacy Browser, Iridium Browser, Kinza, Kometa, Liebao Browser, Opera, Opera GX, Opera Neon, Orbitum, QIP Surf, SalamWeb, Slimjet, Sputnik, Sleipnir 6, Torch Browser, URBrowser, uCozMedia, and Vivaldi.

How to remove the Zaraza from my PC?

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)