Remote Access Trojans (RATs) are among the most dangerous types of malware because they grant cybercriminals full control over infected systems. One such threat, CurlBack RAT, is currently on the radar of cybersecurity experts due to its stealthy behavior and highly invasive capabilities. This article explores what CurlBack RAT is, how it operates, and why it poses a serious risk to your digital safety.
What is CurlBack RAT?
CurlBack RAT (Remote Access Trojan) is a type of malware that allows hackers to gain remote access to a victim’s computer. Once inside, it can steal sensitive data, execute arbitrary commands, install other malware, and remain undetected for extended periods. It’s typically distributed through infected email attachments, malicious installer files (e.g., MSI files), or shady websites.
What Can CurlBack RAT Do?
This RAT is not a passive threat. It actively scans and harvests system data, including:
- Operating system details
- Hardware specifications
- Installed software and running processes
- Network configurations
- User account data and privileges
Worse yet, CurlBack RAT enables attackers to perform remote actions such as:
- Executing command-line operations
- Modifying system settings
- Creating scheduled tasks for persistence
- Downloading sensitive personal files and documents
- Elevating privileges for deeper system control
The ability to silently monitor and manipulate a victim’s system makes CurlBack a potent tool for espionage, identity theft, financial fraud, and further malware infections.
CurlBack RAT Summary
Category | Details |
---|---|
Threat Type | Remote Access Trojan (RAT) |
Detection Names | Avast (Win64:MalwareX-gen [Misc]), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.Generic.37889417), ESET-NOD32 (Win64/Agent.FMQ), Kaspersky (Trojan.Win64.Agent.smegcy), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Malgent!MSR) |
Symptoms | Typically stealthy; little to no visible symptoms |
Distribution Methods | Infected email attachments, malicious MSI files, untrustworthy websites |
Damage | Data theft (including credentials), identity theft, financial loss, further malware installations |
Associated Emails | Not specifically documented for CurlBack |
Danger Level | High – due to stealth, data theft, and persistent access |
Removal Tool | SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool |
Why You Should Be Concerned
The stealthy nature of CurlBack RAT makes it particularly dangerous. Victims often remain unaware of the infection until severe consequences arise—such as stolen online banking credentials or the installation of additional ransomware. Because it can create scheduled tasks and manipulate persistence settings, simply restarting your computer or uninstalling unknown apps is unlikely to fully remove the threat.
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.
Final Thoughts
CurlBack RAT represents a growing class of highly adaptive and invisible threats capable of total system compromise. If you suspect you’ve been infected, it’s essential to act immediately and use a trusted anti-malware solution like SpyHunter to eliminate the threat. RATs like CurlBack aren’t just annoyances—they’re full-scale invasions of your privacy and digital security.