Zhong Stealer Malware: A Silent Threat to Your Sensitive Data

Zhong Stealer is a dangerous piece of malware designed to infiltrate Windows systems, extract sensitive information, and send stolen data to cybercriminals. This malware primarily targets web browsers like Brave, Microsoft Edge, and Internet Explorer, allowing attackers to access saved passwords, authentication tokens, and session data. Once cybercriminals acquire this information, they can exploit it for financial fraud, identity theft, and other malicious activities.

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Threat Summary Table

Attribute	Details
Name	Zhong Information Stealer
Threat Type	Stealer
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:DropperX-gen [Drp]), Combo Cleaner (IL:Trojan.MSILZilla.152080), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/TrojanDownloader.Agent.RKC), Kingsoft (Win32.Troj.Agent.cks), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Alevaul!rfn)
Symptoms of Infection	No visible symptoms; designed for stealth. However, unusual account activity, unauthorized logins, and compromised credentials may indicate an infection.
Distribution Methods	Malicious chat support platforms (e.g., Zendesk), infected email attachments, social engineering tactics.
Damage Potential	Theft of passwords, browser session data, financial and personal information; risk of identity theft, monetary loss, and data breaches.
Danger Level	High – due to its stealthy nature and ability to exfiltrate sensitive data undetected.

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How Zhong Stealer Works

Zhong Stealer operates discreetly, remaining undetected while extracting user credentials and browser session data. Below is an overview of its infection process:

1. Initial Setup & Execution:
   • Zhong Stealer executes a script to unhide hidden files and grant execution permissions.
   • It detects the system’s language to avoid specific regions.
   • Uses Windows Task Scheduler to maintain persistence.
   • Disables logging to evade detection by security software.
2. System Information Collection:
   • Gathers system data, including the computer’s name, network settings, and security configurations.
   • Sends this information to its command-and-control (C2) server.
3. Stealing Sensitive Data:
   • Targets data stored in browsers like Brave, Microsoft Edge, and Internet Explorer.
   • Extracts saved passwords, session cookies, authentication tokens, and browser autofill data.
   • Transfers stolen data to a remote server controlled by cybercriminals.
4. Consequences of Stolen Data:
   • Cybercriminal access: Stolen credentials allow attackers to hack email, banking, and social media accounts.
   • Bypassing security measures: Attackers can use stolen authentication tokens to log in without needing a password.
   • Dark web transactions: Stolen credentials are often sold on underground forums for further exploitation.
   • Monetary and identity theft risks: Hackers use stolen details to commit financial fraud, phishing attacks, or extortion.

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How to Remove Zhong Stealer?

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking

1. Restart your PC and press F8 (or Shift + Restart on Windows 10/11) before Windows loads.
2. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the boot options.
3. Allow Windows to load in this restricted mode.

Step 2: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Download SpyHunter.
2. Install SpyHunter by following the on-screen instructions.

Step 3: Run a Full System Scan

1. Launch SpyHunter and click Start Scan.
2. Wait for the scan to complete. SpyHunter will detect Zhong Stealer and other threats.
3. Click Fix Threats to remove all detected malware.

Step 4: Reset Compromised Browser Settings

Zhong Stealer primarily targets web browsers, so it’s crucial to reset browser settings:

Google Chrome

1. Open Chrome and go to Settings > Reset settings.
2. Click Restore settings to their original defaults.
3. Confirm by selecting Reset settings.

Microsoft Edge

1. Open Edge and navigate to Settings > Reset settings.
2. Select Restore settings to their default values.
3. Confirm by clicking Reset.

Brave Browser

1. Open Brave and go to Settings.
2. Click Additional settings > Reset settings.
3. Select Restore settings to their original defaults and confirm.

Step 5: Change All Passwords Immediately

• Since Zhong Stealer steals credentials, reset passwords for:
  • Email accounts
  • Banking and financial services
  • Social media
  • Any other online platforms you access
• Use strong, unique passwords for each account.
• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) wherever possible.

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How to Prevent Zhong Stealer Infections

1. Avoid Unverified Software Downloads:
   • Do not download software from unknown sources.
   • Stick to official websites or trusted platforms.
2. Be Wary of Phishing Emails:
   • Cybercriminals often spread malware through infected email attachments.
   • Do not open attachments or click links from suspicious senders.
3. Use Robust Antivirus & Anti-Malware Software:
   • Keep SpyHunter or another reliable security tool installed and running.
   • Set automatic updates for security software.
4. Secure Your Web Browsing:
   • Use browsers with enhanced security settings.
   • Disable autofill and password-saving features in browsers.
5. Monitor Your Accounts for Unusual Activity:
   • Check for unexpected logins or changes to your accounts.
   • Regularly review bank statements for unauthorized transactions.
6. Enable Windows Security Features:
   • Turn on Windows Defender Firewall.
   • Keep Windows OS updated to patch vulnerabilities.

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Conclusion

Zhong Stealer is a stealthy and highly dangerous malware designed to steal sensitive information while avoiding detection. It targets popular web browsers to extract passwords, session cookies, and authentication tokens, allowing cybercriminals to exploit stolen data for financial fraud, phishing, and identity theft.

To remove Zhong Stealer, follow the comprehensive removal guide using SpyHunter, reset your browser settings, and change all compromised passwords. Implement preventive measures like strong password practices, using security software, and being cautious of phishing attempts to protect yourself from future infections.

By staying vigilant and securing your system, you can effectively mitigate the risks posed by Zhong Stealer and similar malware threats.

If you are still having trouble, consider contacting remote technical support options.