Gremlin Stealer Malware

Gremlin Stealer is a newly identified information-stealing malware that surfaced in March 2025. Written in C#, this malicious program is actively promoted on underground forums and Telegram channels. Designed to infiltrate Windows systems stealthily, Gremlin Stealer exfiltrates a wide array of sensitive data, posing significant risks to both individuals and organizations.

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Threat Overview

Gremlin Stealer operates as a Trojan, info-stealer, clipper, and grabber. Upon infection, it silently collects and exfiltrates sensitive information, including:

• Browser Data: Cookies, saved passwords, autofill data, and credit card information from Chromium and Gecko-based browsers.
• Cryptocurrency Wallets: Targets wallets like Dash Core, Electrum, Exodus, Jaxx, MetaMask, Monero, and Zcash.
• Communication Platforms: Steals session data from Telegram and Discord.
• Gaming and VPN Services: Extracts credentials from Steam, FTP clients (e.g., FileZilla, Total Commander), and VPN clients.
• System Information: Gathers hardware details, system configurations, and clipboard content.
• Screenshots: Captures images of the victim’s desktop.

The collected data is compiled into ZIP archives and uploaded to a command-and-control server. This server features a user-friendly portal where attackers can manage and download the stolen data.

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Gremlin Stealer Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Trojan, info-stealer, clipper, grabber
Detection Names	Avast (Win64:MalwareX-gen [Bank]), DrWeb (Trojan.PWS.Stealer.41958), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/PSW.CoinStealer.CC), Kaspersky (HEUR:Trojan-Banker.MSIL.ClipBanker.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:MSIL/ClipBanker.GD!MTB)
Symptoms	Typically operates silently; users may not notice any immediate signs of infection
Damage	Theft of sensitive data (credentials, financial information, cryptocurrency wallets), potential identity theft, unauthorized access to accounts, and system compromise
Distribution Methods	Infected email attachments, malicious online advertisements, social engineering tactics, and software ‘cracks’
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

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In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

Gremlin Stealer is commonly distributed through:

• Phishing Emails: Emails containing malicious attachments or links.
• Malicious Advertisements: Online ads that redirect to malicious downloads.
• Software Cracks: Pirated software or ‘cracked’ applications bundled with malware.
• Social Engineering: Deceptive tactics tricking users into executing malicious files.

Once executed, the malware installs itself silently, avoiding detection by traditional antivirus programs.

What Does It Do?

After successful infiltration, Gremlin Stealer:

• Harvests Data: Collects a wide range of data, including browser credentials, cryptocurrency wallet information, and session tokens from communication platforms.
• Bypasses Security: Circumvents Chrome’s V20 cookie protection to access stored cookies.
• Exfiltrates Information: Compiles the stolen data into ZIP files and uploads them to a remote server controlled by the attackers.
• Maintains Persistence: May establish mechanisms to ensure it remains active on the infected system.

Should You Be Worried?

Absolutely. Gremlin Stealer poses a significant threat due to its ability to:

• Steal Sensitive Information: Leading to potential financial loss and identity theft.
• Compromise Accounts: Gaining unauthorized access to personal and professional accounts.
• Facilitate Further Attacks: Providing a foothold for additional malware or ransomware attacks.

Given its stealthy nature and the breadth of data it targets, immediate action is crucial upon suspicion of infection.

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Manual Removal of Info-Stealers (For advanced users)

Step 1: Enter Safe Mode with Networking

Since info-stealers may resist removal while active, booting into Safe Mode helps disable their execution.

1. Windows 10/11:
   • Press Win + R, type msconfig, and hit Enter.
   • Go to the Boot tab and check Safe boot → Network.
   • Click Apply → OK and restart your PC.
2. Windows 7/8:
   • Restart your PC and keep pressing F8 before Windows loads.
   • Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.

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Step 2: End Malicious Processes in Task Manager

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Look for suspicious processes (e.g., randomized names, high CPU usage, or unknown apps).
3. Right-click on them and select End Task.

Common info-stealer process names include StealC.exe, RedLine.exe, Vidar.exe, or generic system-like names.

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Step 3: Uninstall Suspicious Programs

1. Press Win + R, type appwiz.cpl, and hit Enter.
2. Look for unknown or recently installed suspicious software.
3. Right-click the suspect entry and select Uninstall.

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Step 4: Delete Malicious Files and Registry Entries

Info-stealers leave behind hidden files and registry keys to ensure persistence.

1. Open File Explorer and navigate to:
   • C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Local
   • C:\Users\YourUser\AppData\Roaming
   • C:\ProgramData
   • C:\Windows\Temp
   Delete any unfamiliar folders with random names.
2. Open Registry Editor:
   • Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
   • Navigate to:
     • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
     • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
     • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
     • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\Software\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\RunOnce
   • Look for randomized or suspicious registry keys (e.g., StealerLoader, Malware123).
   • Right-click and delete any malicious entries.

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Step 5: Clear Browser Data and Reset DNS

Since info-stealers target browsers, you need to clear stored credentials.

Clear Browsing Data

1. Open Chrome, Edge, or Firefox.
2. Go to Settings → Privacy and Security → Clear Browsing Data.
3. Select Passwords, Cookies, and Cached files and click Clear Data.

Reset DNS

1. Open Command Prompt as Administrator.
2. Type the following commands, pressing Enter after each:bashCopyEditipconfig /flushdns ipconfig /release ipconfig /renew
3. Restart your computer.

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Step 6: Scan for Rootkits

Even after manual removal, some info-stealers may hide as rootkits.

1. Download Malwarebytes Anti-Rootkit or Microsoft Safety Scanner.
2. Run a deep scan and remove any detected threats.

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Step 7: Change All Passwords & Enable MFA

Since info-stealers extract credentials, immediately update passwords for:

• Email accounts
• Banking and finance sites
• Social media
• Cryptocurrency wallets
• Business and work logins

Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) to prevent unauthorized access.

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Method 2: Automatic Removal Using SpyHunter (Recommended)

(For users who want a fast, hassle-free solution)

SpyHunter is a professional anti-malware tool capable of detecting and removing info-stealers, trojans, keyloggers, and spyware.

Step 1: Download SpyHunter

Click here to download SpyHunter

Step 2: Install and Launch SpyHunter

1. Locate the SpyHunter-Installer.exe file in your Downloads folder.
2. Double-click to start the installation.
3. Follow the on-screen instructions and launch SpyHunter after installation.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Click “Start Scan” to analyze your system.
2. SpyHunter will detect any info-stealers, trojans, or keyloggers.
3. Click “Remove” to delete all detected threats.

Step 4: Enable Real-Time Protection

• Go to Settings and enable Real-Time Malware Protection to prevent future infections.

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Prevention Tips: How to Stay Safe from Info-Stealers

• Avoid Cracked Software & Torrents – They are a major infection source.
• Use Strong, Unique Passwords – Utilize a password manager.
• Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – Reduces the risk of stolen credentials being misused.
• Keep Software & OS Updated – Patches fix security vulnerabilities.
• Be Wary of Phishing Emails – Do not open attachments from unknown senders.
• Use an Antivirus or Anti-Malware Tool – A good tool like SpyHunter helps detect and remove threats.

Conclusion

Gremlin Stealer represents a sophisticated and evolving threat in the cybersecurity landscape. Its ability to silently infiltrate systems and exfiltrate a wide array of sensitive data underscores the importance of proactive security measures. Users are advised to remain vigilant, avoid suspicious downloads or email attachments, and employ reputable security solutions. For those suspecting an infection, immediate scanning and removal using tools like SpyHunter are recommended to mitigate potential damage.