How to Remove Crocodilus Malware

Crocodilus is a sophisticated Android banking trojan that represents a major leap forward in mobile malware design. Unlike typical banking threats, Crocodilus blends stealth, precision, and manipulation into a potent toolkit capable of full device takeover (DTO). Disguised as a legitimate Google Chrome application, it skillfully bypasses Android 13+ security protocols and gains complete control over the infected device by exploiting accessibility service permissions.

This malware stands out not only for its technical advancements but also for its broader ambitions. It targets not just banking apps but also cryptocurrency wallets, seeking to intercept and exfiltrate sensitive data with alarming accuracy and efficiency.

Crocodilus Malware Summary Table

Advanced Techniques for Maximum Damage

Crocodilus demonstrates its danger through a range of advanced techniques, including:

• Remote Control Access: Grants operators full control over the victim’s device.
• Black Screen Overlays: Hides its presence during malicious activity.
• Accessibility Logging: Harvests data by monitoring all accessibility-related events.
• Screenshot Capture: Steals 2FA tokens by taking images of Google Authenticator.

Its purpose is simple yet devastating: to seize control of the user’s device and enable fraudulent financial transactions without detection. Analysis of its debug messages and internal code strings points to a Turkish-speaking developer behind the malware.

Disguised as Google Chrome

To avoid suspicion, Crocodilus masks itself under the false package name quizzical.washbowl.calamity, appearing as Google Chrome. Once installed, it prompts users to grant accessibility service permissions—an action that grants the malware immense power over the device.

Once activated, Crocodilus connects to a Command-and-Control (C2) server to download configuration files, get a list of target financial apps, and deploy HTML overlays that mimic legitimate login pages, effectively phishing credentials.

Cryptocurrency Wallets in the Crosshairs

Crocodilus isn’t limited to banking apps. It cunningly targets cryptocurrency wallets by showing fraudulent seed phrase backup alerts, urging users to save their recovery phrases within 12 hours—or risk losing their assets. Once users reveal their seed phrase, it’s harvested, allowing attackers full access to drain funds.

Continuous Credential Harvesting

Crocodilus maintains persistent background activity, monitoring app launches and overlaying phishing interfaces. Its core features include:

• Monitoring all accessibility events
• Capturing UI elements
• Taking screenshots of authentication apps
• Collecting input for credential theft

Stealth and Control: A Dangerous Duo

The malware uses stealth-focused tactics such as:

• Displaying black screen overlays to hide activity
• Muting sounds during suspicious operations
• Removing itself post-infection to avoid detection
• Regularly updating its C2 settings for new instructions
• Sending SMS messages and managing contacts
• Making itself the default SMS app, intercepting communications

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

Crocodilus represents the next evolution in Android banking malware. Its advanced tactics—ranging from DTO to real-time remote control—make it a formidable threat to financial and digital security. By leveraging accessibility services and camouflaging itself as a trusted app, it effectively deceives users and evades standard security barriers. With the addition of cryptocurrency wallet targeting, Crocodilus broadens its impact and highlights the growing convergence between traditional and crypto-focused malware threats.

If you’re still having trouble, consider remote computer repair.