Acrid Malware: Detailed Analysis and Removal Guide

Acrid is a malicious program classified as a stealer Trojan, designed to infiltrate systems and exfiltrate sensitive data. Written in C++, this malware has been active since at least 2023, targeting both personal and corporate devices. Acrid primarily focuses on stealing login credentials, browser data, cryptocurrency wallet details, and other sensitive information, leading to identity theft and financial losses.

To help you better understand this threat and remove it effectively, this article provides a summary table, detailed removal instructions, and preventive measures. Additionally, the anti-malware tool SpyHunter is recommended for removing Acrid and protecting against future infections.

Threat Summary

How Acrid Works

Primary Objectives

Acrid aims to:

1. Extract Data from Browsers: Stealing browsing histories, cookies, auto-fill data (personal information, usernames, and passwords), and credit card details.
2. Target Cryptocurrency Wallets: Searching for and stealing wallet credentials.
3. Access Files of Interest: Identifying and extracting files with keywords like "password" or "wallet."
4. Compromise Other Accounts: Stealing credentials from messenger and FTP client accounts.

Potential for Evolution

Malware developers often enhance their software, which means future versions of Acrid could target additional data sources or implement new techniques for stealing information.

Symptoms of Infection

Acrid is designed to operate covertly, making detection challenging. Here are some potential signs:

• Unusual system behavior, such as slower performance.
• Suspicious outgoing network activity.
• Unknown logins or changes to online accounts.
• Discovery of files or software you did not install.

Distribution Methods

Acrid spreads through:

• Infected Email Attachments: Documents or files that execute malicious code when opened.
• Malicious Online Ads: Redirecting users to infected websites.
• Social Engineering: Persuading users to download and execute the malware.
• Software Cracks and Pirated Software: Bundled with unauthorized or counterfeit software.

Consequences of Acrid Infection

• Loss of sensitive data, such as passwords and financial information.
• Identity theft, potentially leading to fraudulent activities.
• Financial losses due to unauthorized transactions.
• The infected device becoming part of a botnet.

Comprehensive Removal Guide

Step 1: Disconnect from the Internet

Immediately disconnect your device from the internet to prevent further data exfiltration.

Step 2: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Restart your computer.
2. Press F8 (or the appropriate key for your system) during startup to access the Advanced Boot Options menu.
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

Step 3: Use SpyHunter to Detect and Remove Acrid

1. Download and Install SpyHunter.
2. Run a Full System Scan:
   • Launch SpyHunter and click on Scan Now.
   • Wait for the scan to complete.
3. Remove Detected Threats:
   • Review the scan results.
   • Click Fix Threats to remove all instances of Acrid and related malware.

Step 4: Clear Browser Data

1. Open your browser settings.
2. Navigate to Privacy and Security.
3. Clear browsing history, cookies, and cached files.

Step 5: Check for System Updates

Ensure your operating system and software are up to date to patch vulnerabilities.

Step 6: Perform a Final Scan

Run another full scan with SpyHunter to confirm that Acrid has been completely removed.

Preventive Measures

• Avoid Opening Suspicious Emails: Do not download attachments or click on links from unknown senders.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Add an extra layer of security to your accounts.
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords: Avoid reusing passwords across different accounts.
• Install Reliable Anti-Malware Software: Keep SpyHunter or a similar tool active to detect and block threats.
• Regularly Back Up Data: Use secure and encrypted backups to recover files in case of malware infection.
• Update Software Regularly: Ensure your operating system and applications are patched with the latest security updates.
• Exercise Caution with Downloads: Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.