NETXLOADER

NETXLOADER is a dangerous .NET-based malware loader actively used by the Qilin (Agenda) ransomware group. This threat is engineered to infiltrate systems undetected and deliver a range of malicious payloads, including ransomware, data stealers, and cryptocurrency miners. With its heavily obfuscated code and stealth techniques, NETXLOADER is a serious risk for both individuals and organizations.

---

Threat Overview

NETXLOADER functions as a malicious loader designed to bypass traditional detection methods and install other malware on an infected system. Its primary role is to establish persistence and enable cybercriminals to carry out further malicious activities.

---

Threat Summary

Attribute	Details
Threat Type	Malware Loader
Detection Names	Avast (Win32:MalwareX-gen [Pws]), Combo Cleaner (Gen:Variant.Jalapeno.18249), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of MSIL/GenKryptik.GSKD), Kaspersky (HEUR:Backdoor.MSIL.Crysan.gen), Microsoft (Backdoor:Win32/Multiverze!rfn)
Symptoms of Infection	Often asymptomatic; possible signs include system slowdown, suspicious background processes, and unauthorized activity.
Damage	Data breaches, system compromise, remote access, ransomware deployment, financial theft, resource hijacking.
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, phishing links, fake software updates, pirated software, cracked applications.
Danger Level	High
Removal Tool	SpyHunter

---

In-Depth Analysis

How Did I Get Infected?

NETXLOADER typically spreads through phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or embedded links. Opening a compromised file or clicking on a malicious link initiates the download of NETXLOADER. It may also be bundled with pirated software, cracked programs, or disguised as legitimate applications.

What Does It Do?

Once inside the system, NETXLOADER executes several key actions:

• Uses obfuscation to avoid detection by security software.
• Downloads and runs secondary payloads such as:
  • Agenda Ransomware – Encrypts data and demands a ransom payment.
  • Information Stealers – Collects login credentials, browser history, financial data, and more.
  • Remote Access Trojans (RATs) – Grants attackers full access to the infected system.
  • Cryptocurrency Miners – Drains computing resources to mine digital currency.

These capabilities enable long-term system exploitation and data compromise, often without the user’s knowledge.

Should You Be Worried?

Yes. Even if NETXLOADER shows no immediate signs of infection, it can operate silently, allowing attackers to harvest sensitive data or prepare for a ransomware attack. The presence of this loader means your system could already be compromised by multiple strains of malware.

---

Recommended Removal Tool

To remove NETXLOADER and any accompanying malware, use SpyHunter. It offers advanced detection and threat removal, helping restore system integrity and security.

Manual Trojan Malware Removal Guide

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode

1. Restart your computer.
2. Before Windows starts, press the F8 key (or Shift + F8 on some systems).
3. Select Safe Mode with Networking from the Advanced Boot Options menu.
4. Press Enter to boot.

This prevents the Trojan from running and makes it easier to remove.

---

Step 2: Identify and Stop Malicious Processes

1. Press Ctrl + Shift + Esc to open Task Manager.
2. Go to the Processes tab (or Details in Windows 10/11).
3. Look for suspicious processes using high CPU or memory, or with unfamiliar names.
4. Right-click on the suspicious process and select Open File Location.
5. If the file is in a temporary or system folder and looks unfamiliar, it is likely malicious.
6. Right-click the process and choose End Task.
7. Delete the associated file in File Explorer.

---

Step 3: Remove Trojan-Related Files and Folders

1. Press Win + R, type %temp%, and press Enter.
2. Delete all files in the Temp folder.
3. 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
4. Delete suspicious files or folders.

---

Step 4: Clean Trojan Malware from Registry

1. Press Win + R, type regedit, and press Enter.
2. Navigate to the following paths:
   • HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
   • HKEY_CURRENT_USER\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run
3. Look for entries launching files from suspicious locations.
4. 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

1. Go to Settings > Reset Settings.
2. Click Restore settings to their original defaults and confirm.

Mozilla Firefox

1. Go to Help > More Troubleshooting Information.
2. Click Refresh Firefox.

Microsoft Edge

1. Go to Settings > Reset settings.
2. Click Restore settings to their default values.

---

Step 6: Run a Full Windows Defender Scan

1. Open Windows Security via Settings > Update & Security.
2. Click Virus & threat protection.
3. Choose Scan options, select Full scan, and click Scan now.

---

Step 7: Update Windows and Installed Software

1. Press Win + I, go to Update & Security > Windows Update.
2. 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

1. Locate the SpyHunter-Installer.exe file in your Downloads folder.
2. Double-click the installer to begin setup.
3. Follow the on-screen prompts to complete the installation.

---

Step 3: Scan Your System

1. Open SpyHunter.
2. Click Start Scan Now.
3. Let the program detect all threats, including Trojan components.

---

Step 4: Remove Detected Malware

1. After the scan, click Fix Threats.
2. 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

NETXLOADER is not just a simple loader—it’s a gateway for advanced cyberattacks. Its use in campaigns by the Agenda ransomware group makes it especially dangerous. Users should remain alert and act quickly if they suspect infection. Deploying a trusted malware removal tool is critical to mitigate potential damage and reclaim control of your system.