What is Zlob? How to remove Zlob Trojan from your PC or Mac?
The Zlob Trojan is a dangerous malware threat which is designed mainly for Microsoft Windows computers. It can be acquired from various sources, every attack campaign can focus on one specific tactic. Usually virus infections like this one are made by interacting with an infected file — this can be either a macro-infected document or a hacker-made software installer. They are often made by taking the legitimate files from their official sources and modifying them with the necessary virus code. Other data can also be affected. All kinds of other data may be used as well — this includes malicious plugins for web browsers and etc. In other cases the hackers can use a direct attacks that will look for system vulnerabilities and weaknesses. If any are found then the Zlob Trojan will be installed.
This particular threat is known for being spread using a multitude of weaknesses. It is set against both end users and servers. After the infection has been made the Zlob Trojan can download other threats, launch multiple dangerous modules and install a cryptocurrency miner which will run a sequence of performance-demanding tasks.
Threat Summary
| Name | Zlob Trojan |
| Type | Malware, Trojan, Miner |
| Short Description | A dangerous malware which can launch a miner and start a Trojan module. |
| Symptoms | The victims may notice performance issues and can get infected with other malware. |
| Distribution Method | Common distribution tactics and direct web attacks. |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss Zlob Trojan. |
Zlob Trojan — How Did I Get It
The Zlob Trojan is an old hacking weapon that has been known to be part of various malware since 2005-2006. Ever since its first inception more than 30 distinct versions of it have been identified. A lot of them are spread in small-sized campaigns against certain networks. As such there are many possible distribution tactics that can be used:
- Malware File Carriers — Many of the earlier versions of the Zlob Trojan are distributed using bundle installers. This means that the virus is made part of other data that is marketed to the end users as safe and useful. This includes the likes of application installers of popular software that is often downloaded by end users. Many of the Zlob Trojan samples have been found to be made as embedded in codec packs which are often distributed on fake download portals or file-sharing networks.
- Phishing Mechanisms — The hackers can also orchestrate various phishing campaigns. They can be via email messages or by setting up specially made web sites. Their aim is to impersonate well-known services and companies. This is done by making them appear as landing pages, login prompts or notifications. As soon as the recipients click on the shown contents they will download and launch the infection script on their computer thus leading to the Zlob Trojan infection.
- File Sharing Networks — Through them the fake virus samples can be easily spread. The likes of BitTorrent and other peer-to-peer networks are often used to spread both pirate and legitimate content. Through them the virus files can be easily found.
- Browser Hijackers — These are malicious browser plugins that are made compatible with the most popular web browsers. To make the visitors want to install them they will be uploaded to the repositories of the browsers with fake user reviews and stolen or hacker-made developer credentials.
The Zlob Trojan has also been found to be distributed with fake antivirus programs. They were distribute en-mass a few years ago and can take various forms. They can remove existing software and take their place.
Another tactic which has been found to be particularly effective is the inclusion of the Zlob Trojan installation script across malware web scripts. They are made part of the so-called ActiveX controllers that launch multimedia features on web sites. Popular examples where such examples can be contacted include fake or network adult sites and redirect pages. Content that is of interest to the users is shown to them and if they want to view they are prompted to activate these scripts. As soon as this is done the Zlob Trojan will be installed onto the host computers.
Zlob Trojan — Capabilities
As soon as the Zlob Trojan is installed on a given host it will start its built-in sequence of malicious actions. One of the first actions that is run is the creation of multiple files in certain user and system locations. They are used to hide the modules and decrypted contents. A special PowerShell script will be launched in order to download any additional components. This means that at this point a preliminary data gathering has been made. This can include any of the following checks:
- Personal Information — The main engine can be used to scan the memory and hard disk contents in order to find out any specific information about the victims. This can include a person’s name, address, phone number and any stored passwords.
- Machine Metrics — Many Trojans choose to hijack details about the machines, the created profile can be used to generate an unique ID for the compromised host.
- Previous Infections — Advanced Trojans can also scan the system for any installed viruses across multiple types. This is done in order not to intrude into already infected networks as they may spy on the Trojan’s activities if they are controlled by another hacking group.
As soon as this is done the malware will continue with Windows Registry modifications. This leads to the creation of new entries that are specific to the Trojan. If existing ones are changed then the users can experience data loss, unexpected errors and performance issues.
The next stage of the infection is the manipulation of the operating system’s DNS records. This means that all Internet browsing queries will be relayed to the servers controlled by the hackers. This step allows them to view their Internet sites and used services in real-time.
When these modules have been finished running the actual Zlob Trojan engine will be launched. This will allows the hackers to take over control of the infected systems and also steal files. Having total control of the victims allows the hackers to implant other threats, spy on them and also intrude onto other host on the same network.
How to Remove Zlob Trojan
In order to fully remove Zlob from your computer system, we recommend that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. If the first two manual removal steps do not seem to work and you still see Zlob or programs, related to it, we suggest what most security experts advise – to download and run a scan of your computer with a reputable anti-malware program. Downloading this software will not only save you some time, but will remove all of Zlob files and programs related to it and will protect your computer against such intrusive apps and malware in the future.
Martin Beltov
Martin graduated with a degree in Publishing from Sofia University. As a cyber security enthusiast he enjoys writing about the latest threats and mechanisms of intrusion.
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Preparation before removing Zlob Trojan.
Before starting the actual removal process, we recommend that you do the following preparation steps.
- Make sure you have these instructions always open and in front of your eyes.
- Do a backup of all of your files, even if they could be damaged. You should back up your data with a cloud backup solution and insure your files against any type of loss, even from the most severe threats.
- Be patient as this could take a while.
- Scan for Malware
- Fix Registries
- Remove Virus Files
Step 1: Scan for Zlob Trojan with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Clean any registries, created by Zlob Trojan on your computer.
The usually targeted registries of Windows machines are the following:
- 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
You can access them by opening the Windows registry editor and deleting any values, created by Zlob Trojan there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:
Tip: To find a virus-created value, you can right-click on it and click "Modify" to see which file it is set to run. If this is the virus file location, remove the value.Step 3: Find virus files created by Zlob Trojan on your PC.
1.For Windows 8, 8.1 and 10.
For Newer Windows Operating Systems
1: On your keyboard press + R and write explorer.exe in the Run text box and then click on the Ok button.
2: Click on your PC from the quick access bar. This is usually an icon with a monitor and its name is either “My Computer”, “My PC” or “This PC” or whatever you have named it.
3: Navigate to the search box in the top-right of your PC's screen and type “fileextension:” and after which type the file extension. If you are looking for malicious executables, an example may be "fileextension:exe". After doing that, leave a space and type the file name you believe the malware has created. Here is how it may appear if your file has been found:
N.B. We recommend to wait for the green loading bar in the navigation box to fill up in case the PC is looking for the file and hasn't found it yet.
2.For Windows XP, Vista, and 7.
For Older Windows Operating Systems
In older Windows OS's the conventional approach should be the effective one:
1: Click on the Start Menu icon (usually on your bottom-left) and then choose the Search preference.
2: After the search window appears, choose More Advanced Options from the search assistant box. Another way is by clicking on All Files and Folders.
3: After that type the name of the file you are looking for and click on the Search button. This might take some time after which results will appear. If you have found the malicious file, you may copy or open its location by right-clicking on it.
Now you should be able to discover any file on Windows as long as it is on your hard drive and is not concealed via special software.
Zlob Trojan FAQ
What Does Zlob Trojan Trojan Do?
The Zlob Trojan Trojan is a malicious computer program designed to disrupt, damage, or gain unauthorized access to a computer system. It can be used to steal sensitive data, gain control over a system, or launch other malicious activities.
Can Trojans Steal Passwords?
Yes, Trojans, like Zlob Trojan, can steal passwords. These malicious programs are designed to gain access to a user's computer, spy on victims and steal sensitive information such as banking details and passwords.
Can Zlob Trojan Trojan Hide Itself?
Yes, it can. A Trojan can use various techniques to mask itself, including rootkits, encryption, and obfuscation, to hide from security scanners and evade detection.
Can a Trojan be Removed by Factory Reset?
Yes, a Trojan can be removed by factory resetting your device. This is because it will restore the device to its original state, eliminating any malicious software that may have been installed. Bear in mind that there are more sophisticated Trojans that leave backdoors and reinfect even after a factory reset.
Can Zlob Trojan Trojan Infect WiFi?
Yes, it is possible for a Trojan to infect WiFi networks. When a user connects to the infected network, the Trojan can spread to other connected devices and can access sensitive information on the network.
Can Trojans Be Deleted?
Yes, Trojans can be deleted. This is typically done by running a powerful anti-virus or anti-malware program that is designed to detect and remove malicious files. In some cases, manual deletion of the Trojan may also be necessary.
Can Trojans Steal Files?
Yes, Trojans can steal files if they are installed on a computer. This is done by allowing the malware author or user to gain access to the computer and then steal the files stored on it.
Which Anti-Malware Can Remove Trojans?
Anti-malware programs such as SpyHunter are capable of scanning for and removing Trojans from your computer. It is important to keep your anti-malware up to date and regularly scan your system for any malicious software.
Can Trojans Infect USB?
Yes, Trojans can infect USB devices. USB Trojans typically spread through malicious files downloaded from the internet or shared via email, allowing the hacker to gain access to a user's confidential data.
About the Zlob Trojan Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Zlob Trojan how-to removal guide included, is the outcome of extensive research, hard work and our team’s devotion to help you remove the specific trojan problem.
How did we conduct the research on Zlob Trojan?
Please note that our research is based on an independent investigation. We are in contact with independent security researchers, thanks to which we receive daily updates on the latest malware definitions, including the various types of trojans (backdoor, downloader, infostealer, ransom, etc.)
Furthermore, the research behind the Zlob Trojan threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand the threat posed by trojans, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.