Cybercriminals continue to refine their tactics, and one particularly dangerous tool that has emerged is OctopuZ, a powerful information stealer offered under a Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) model. Sold for as little as $9.99 per week, OctopuZ enables even low-level threat actors to wreak havoc by stealing sensitive data from infected devices. Its accessibility and rich feature set make it a significant concern for both individuals and organizations alike.
Summary of OctopuZ Information Stealer
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Name | OctopuZ Information Stealer |
Threat Type | Stealer |
Danger Level | High |
Detection Names | May vary by vendor; often detected as info-stealer malware (e.g., Win32/Infostealer.OctopuZ) |
Symptoms | Typically no visible symptoms; operates silently in the background |
Known Distribution Methods | Infected email attachments, malicious ads, fake software cracks, social engineering, tech support scams |
Damage Potential | Identity theft, stolen credentials, financial loss, account takeover |
Targeted Platforms | Windows |
Associated Email Addresses | Not publicly disclosed (malware is sold through underground forums) |
What is OctopuZ?
OctopuZ is designed to infiltrate computers silently and extract a wide range of private data. Once it infects a system, it can harvest stored passwords, browser cookies, AutoFill form data, authentication tokens, and even files tied to popular platforms like Discord, Steam, Epic Games, and Roblox. This stolen data can then be exploited for account takeovers, identity theft, financial fraud, and more.
One particularly dangerous feature of OctopuZ is its ability to inject code into Discord processes, extending its surveillance capabilities and allowing attackers persistent access. Additionally, the malware can disrupt internet connections and add itself to the system startup list, ensuring it remains active even after a system reboot.
Capabilities of OctopuZ
- Steals login credentials and cookies from browsers
- Captures browser AutoFill data
- Monitors for specific keywords typed by the victim
- Harvests Discord tokens and injects malicious code
- Extracts Steam, Epic Games, and Roblox-related files
- Disables internet connection
- Adds itself to system startup
- Offers customer support and regular updates to users of the malware
These features allow bad actors to commit extensive fraud, scam other users through hijacked accounts, make unauthorized purchases, and launch broader cyberattacks using the compromised data.
Manual Removal of Info-Stealers (For experienced users)
Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking
Info-stealers often run in the background, making removal difficult. Restarting in Safe Mode with Networking ensures they don’t load at startup.
For Windows 10/11
- Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
- In the System Configuration window, go to the Boot tab.
- Check Safe boot → Network.
- Click Apply > OK > Restart.
For Windows 7/8
- Restart your PC and press F8 before Windows loads.
- Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.
Step 2: Stop Malicious Processes in Task Manager
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Look for unusual processes (high CPU usage, unknown names).
- Right-click on them and select End Task.
Common Info-Stealer Process Names:
StealC.exe
RedLine.exe
Vidar.exe
ClipBanker.exe
Randomized system-like names
Step 3: Uninstall Suspicious Applications
- Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and press Enter.
- Locate any suspicious or unknown programs.
- Right-click and select Uninstall.
Step 4: Delete Malicious Files and Registry Entries
Info-stealers often store files in hidden locations.
Delete Suspicious Files
- Open File Explorer and navigate to:
C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Local
C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Roaming
C:\ProgramData
C:\Windows\Temp
- Delete any suspicious folders with randomized names.
Remove Malicious Registry Entries
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and hit Enter.
- Navigate to:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- Delete suspicious registry keys (e.g.,
StealerLoader
,TrojanRun
).
Step 5: Reset Browsers and Flush DNS
Since info-stealers target browsers, clearing stored credentials is essential.
Reset Browser Data
- Open Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
- Go to Settings → Privacy & Security → Clear Browsing Data.
- Select Passwords, Cookies, and Cached files → Click Clear Data.
Flush DNS Cache
- Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
- Type the following commands and press Enter:bashCopyEdit
ipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew
- Restart your computer.
Step 6: Scan for Rootkits
Some info-stealers use rootkit techniques to stay hidden.
- Download Microsoft Safety Scanner or Malwarebytes Anti-Rootkit.
- Perform a deep system scan.
- Remove any detected threats.
Step 7: Change All Passwords & Enable 2FA
Since credentials may have been stolen, update passwords immediately for:
- Email accounts
- Banking/finance sites
- Social media accounts
- Cryptocurrency wallets
- Work and business logins
Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) for extra security.
Automatic Removal with SpyHunter (Recommended)
(For users who want a fast, reliable removal solution)
SpyHunter is an advanced malware removal tool designed to detect and eliminate info-stealers, trojans, and spyware.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter
Click Here to Download SpyHunter
Step 2: Install and Launch SpyHunter
- Open the SpyHunter-Installer.exe file from your Downloads folder.
- Follow the on-screen instructions.
- Launch SpyHunter after installation.
Step 3: Scan Your System for Info-Stealers
- Click “Start Scan” to perform a deep scan.
- SpyHunter will identify all malware-related files.
- Click “Remove” to eliminate detected threats.
Step 4: Enable SpyHunter’s Real-Time Protection
- Go to Settings → Enable Real-Time Protection.
- This prevents future infections.
How to Prevent Info-Stealer Infections
- Avoid Cracked Software & Torrents – These often contain malware.
- Use Strong, Unique Passwords – Consider a password manager.
- Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Protects against account theft.
- Keep Windows & Software Updated – Security updates fix vulnerabilities.
- Beware of Phishing Emails – Do not click unknown links or attachments.
- Use a Reliable Anti-Malware Solution – SpyHunter detects and removes threats in real time.
Conclusion
OctopuZ represents a growing threat in the cybersecurity landscape. By offering advanced capabilities at an affordable price point, it lowers the barrier of entry for cybercriminals looking to profit from stolen data. Its stealthy behavior and ability to gather a broad spectrum of sensitive information make it especially dangerous. Users should remain vigilant and be cautious about downloading software from untrusted sources or clicking on suspicious links. While this article focuses on the nature and scope of the threat, removal and prevention are equally critical and should be addressed immediately upon detection.