Zegost is a sophisticated malware that primarily infiltrates systems via targeted email attacks, malvertising, and social engineering tactics. It stealthily gathers sensitive information, including operating system details, network connections, and keystrokes, and transmits this data to remote servers.
Characterized by its unique evasion techniques, such as clearing event logs and detecting sandbox environments, Zegost stands out for its multifaceted spying capabilities, including webcam capture, making it a formidable cyber threat.
Zegost Overview
Zegost is a type of malware that steals information. Since its emergence around 2011, cybercriminals have distributed it via targeted email attacks. The groups behind Zegost are notorious for their persistent and innovative tactics, using multiple exploits to establish and sustain connections with their targets.
Zegost scan result on VirusTotal
| Name | Zegost information stealer |
| Threat Type | Information Stealer |
| Detection | Trojan.Win32.Kryptik.sa, Backdoor:Win32/Farfli!pz (Microsoft) |
| Damage | Stolen sensitive information, identity theft, monetary loss, privacy issues, and more. |
| Similar Behavitor | SapphireStealer, Luca Stealer |
| Fix Tool | See If Your System Has Been Affected by Zegost Virus |
Technical Analysis
Zegost utilizes diverse data-gathering techniques to fulfill its goals. Initially, it discerns key details of the targeted computer, like the operating system version, processor specifics, and active processes. It transmits this data to its command-and-control (C2) server. The malware further inspects network connections, Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) port numbers, and QQ messenger login credentials, sending this information to the C2 servers. Importantly, it also logs keystrokes, capturing data entered via the keyboard.
To stay under the radar, Zegost deliberately wipes event logs (including Application, Security, and System logs) and initiates specific processes, setting it apart from standard infostealers. It functions in visible and hidden windows. It ensures continual operation by automatically launching as a service and manipulating registry keys. Over time, this malware has evolved to incorporate Component Object Model (COM) programming, a relatively rare technique in malware. Its comprehensive surveillance capabilities now include capturing video through the device’s webcam and employing the DirectShow capture filter to identify devices. Additionally, it can detect sandbox environments, further refining its avoidance mechanisms.
Spreading Methods
Zegost infiltrates computers primarily through targeted email attacks, showcasing its perpetrators’ methodical and precise approach. In these attacks, the malware is often hidden in seemingly harmless email attachments or links, leveraging recipients’ trust to access their systems.
Additionally, the malware spreads through malvertising, a tactic where attackers embed malicious code in online ads, leading unsuspecting users to download the malware. Moreover, social engineering tactics, like counterfeit software updates or deceptive alerts, deceive users into running the malware.
Other prevalent distribution methods include pirated software, cracking tools, peer-to-peer (P2P) networks, third-party downloaders, and exploiting software vulnerabilities.
How To Remove Malware
While it’s possible to remove malware manually, it’s generally not advisable. Malware often aims to establish persistence by creating multiple instances of itself, making complete tracing and removal very challenging. Consequently, manual removal efforts tend to be time-consuming and often ineffective.
The most efficient way to eliminate malware is through anti-malware software. For this purpose, I recommend using GridinSoft Anti-Malware. It’s a fast, lightweight, and effective solution capable of countering various threats, including Zegost. You can assess its performance with a 6-day free trial. Please refer to the comprehensive guide below for detailed instructions on removing Zegost.
Remove Zegost 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 malware as shown from our tests with the software, and we assure you that it can remove Zegost 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 “Zegost” 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 Zegost 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 Zegost 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 Zegost 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 Zegost Malware
Name: Zegost
Description: The Zegost is a sophisticated malware that primarily infiltrates systems via targeted email attacks, malvertising, and social engineering tactics. It stealthily gathers sensitive information, including operating system details, network connections, and keystrokes, and transmits this data to remote servers. Characterized by its unique evasion techniques, such as clearing event logs and detecting sandbox environments, Zegost stands out for its multifaceted spying capabilities, including webcam capture, making it a formidable cyber threat.
Operating System: Windows
Application Category: Malware
