The “Dance of Hillary” malware is a deceptive Trojan horse that has recently resurfaced, targeting users through social media platforms and messaging apps. Disguised as innocuous files, this malware infiltrates systems to steal sensitive data and grant unauthorized remote access to cybercriminals.
Threat Overview
Attribute | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Trojan Horse / Malware |
Detection Names | Varies by antivirus software; commonly identified as “Dance of Hillary” or “tasksche.exe” |
Symptoms of Infection | – System slowdown or freezing – Excessive CPU usage – Unauthorized access to personal data – Unexpected system behavior |
Damage | – Theft of sensitive information (passwords, financial data) – Remote control of the infected device – Potential installation of additional malware |
Distribution Methods | – Bundled downloads from untrusted sources – Malicious email attachments – Links shared via social media and messaging platforms |
Danger Level | High |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter |
In-Depth Analysis
How Did I Get Infected?
The “Dance of Hillary” malware often spreads through:
- Bundled Downloads: Installing software from unofficial or pirated sources.
- Email Attachments: Opening malicious attachments from unknown or suspicious emails.
- Social Media Links: Clicking on deceptive links shared via platforms like WhatsApp, Facebook, or Telegram.
What Does It Do?
Once executed, the malware:
- Steals Data: Extracts personal and financial information.
- Grants Remote Access: Allows attackers to control the infected device remotely.
- Installs Additional Malware: Acts as a dropper for other malicious software.
- Evades Detection: Utilizes techniques to remain hidden from antivirus programs.
Should You Be Worried?
Absolutely. The malware poses significant risks, including identity theft, financial loss, and unauthorized access to personal files. Its ability to remain undetected makes it particularly dangerous.
Manual Trojan Malware Removal Guide
Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode
- Restart your computer.
- Before Windows starts, press the F8 key (or Shift + F8 on some systems).
- Select Safe Mode with Networking from the Advanced Boot Options menu.
- Press Enter to boot.
This prevents the Trojan from running and makes it easier to remove.
Step 2: Identify and Stop Malicious Processes
- Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
- Go to the Processes tab (or Details in Windows 10/11).
- Look for suspicious processes using high CPU or memory, or with unfamiliar names.
- Right-click on the suspicious process and select Open File Location.
- If the file is in a temporary or system folder and looks unfamiliar, it is likely malicious.
- Right-click the process and choose End Task.
- Delete the associated file in File Explorer.
Step 3: Remove Trojan-Related Files and Folders
- Press Win + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
- Delete all files in the Temp folder.
- Also check these directories for unfamiliar or recently created files:
- C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Local\Temp
- C:\Windows\Temp
- C:\Program Files (x86)
- C:\ProgramData
- C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Roaming
- Delete suspicious files or folders.
Step 4: Clean Trojan Malware from Registry
- Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
- Navigate to the following paths:
HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
- Look for entries launching files from suspicious locations.
- Right-click and delete any entries you don’t recognize.
Warning: Editing the registry can harm your system if done improperly. Proceed with caution.
Step 5: Reset Browser Settings
Google Chrome
- Go to Settings > Reset Settings.
- Click Restore settings to their original defaults and confirm.
Mozilla Firefox
- Go to Help > More Troubleshooting Information.
- Click Refresh Firefox.
Microsoft Edge
- Go to Settings > Reset settings.
- Click Restore settings to their default values.
Step 6: Run a Full Windows Defender Scan
- Open Windows Security via Settings > Update & Security.
- Click Virus & threat protection.
- Choose Scan options, select Full scan, and click Scan now.
Step 7: Update Windows and Installed Software
- Press Win + I, go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
- Click Check for updates and install all available updates.
Automatic Trojan Removal Using SpyHunter
If manually removing the Trojan seems difficult or time-consuming, using SpyHunter is the recommended method. SpyHunter is an advanced anti-malware tool that detects and eliminates Trojan infections effectively.
Step 1: Download SpyHunter
Use the following official link to download SpyHunter: Download SpyHunter
For full instructions on how to install, follow this page: Official SpyHunter Download Instructions
Step 2: Install SpyHunter
- Locate the SpyHunter-Installer.exe file in your Downloads folder.
- Double-click the installer to begin setup.
- Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.
Step 3: Scan Your System
- Open SpyHunter.
- Click Start Scan Now.
- Let the program detect all threats, including Trojan components.
Step 4: Remove Detected Malware
- After the scan, click Fix Threats.
- SpyHunter will automatically quarantine and remove all identified malicious components.
Step 5: Restart Your Computer
Restart your system to ensure all changes take effect and the threat is completely removed.
Tips to Prevent Future Trojan Infections
- Avoid downloading pirated software or opening unknown email attachments.
- Only visit trusted websites and avoid clicking on suspicious ads or pop-ups.
- Use a real-time antivirus solution like SpyHunter for ongoing protection.
- Keep your operating system, browsers, and software up to date.
Conclusion
The “Dance of Hillary” malware is a potent threat that exploits user trust and system vulnerabilities. To safeguard your digital assets:
- Avoid downloading software from untrusted sources.
- Be cautious with email attachments and links from unknown senders.
- Regularly update your antivirus software.
- Consider using SpyHunter for effective detection and removal.