This article reveals how to remove the CoffeeMiner Monero cryptocurrency miner virus from your computer.
The CoffeeMiner malware is an advanced virus that can infect many computers at once and their resources in order to perform complex crypto currency operations (also known as mining) that generate income for the hacker operators. It can also be used to deliver additional threats to the victims.
Threat Summary
| Name | CoffeeMiner |
| Type | Miner Trojan Horse |
| Short Description | Aims to use the system’s resources of the infected computers to mine for Monero and other crypto currencies. |
| Symptoms | After infection the miner overloads the CPU for extended periods of time which results in poor PC performance and system crashes. |
| Distribution Method | Networks attacks, exploits, emails, scam sites and malware downloads. |
| Detection Tool |
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User Experience | Join Our Forum to Discuss CoffeeMiner. |
CoffeeMiner Malware — Distribution Methods
The CoffeeMiner malware is an advanced threat that has just been reported by the security community. Instead of utilizing traditional approaches it is mostly directed at victims using a complex MITM (Man-In-The-Middle) injection attack.
According to the predefined scenario the hackers execute a public Wi-Fi spoof. The reports indicate that the CoffeeMiner malware has already been tested in a real-world example case to prove that it works.
Not only do the infections can be deployed using custom behavior patterns, the whole scenario can be deployed using a virtual machine as well. One of the detailed guides showcase how this can be achieved using the popular Kali Linux distribution. The criminal controllers have demonstrated how all three types of users can be simulated — the victim, attacker and gateway device.
The CoffeeMiner malware infection can be initiated by starting an ARP poisoning attack on the network to which the targets are connected. These are usually popular public Wi-Fi networks that belong to locations such as the following:
- Coffeee Shops
- Restaurants
- Bars
- City Parks
- Shopping Malls
- Airports
Once this is done another tool is used to analyze the traffic and input dangerous JavaScript code into the transmitted HTML pages. This means that while the victim users are browsing Internet pages they can be infected with the CoffeeMiner malware. This includes even legitimate sites and secured content as the dangerous code does not originate from the servers, but the network itself.
Traditional malware infection routes include the following tactics:
- Email Messages — The computer criminals can generate email messages based on templates that can include attachments or links to files containing virus files. In other cases social engineering may be used to coerce the victims into connecting to the rogue network.
- Infected Files — Dangerous and/or spoofed files can be hosted on file sharing sites, communities, portals and Torrent trackers.
- Redirects — Web Scripts, redirects and ads can institute the dangerous Miner code into the browsers.
CoffeeMiner Malware — More Details
The CoffeeMiner malware is a Python-based virus that poses a serious threat to computer users. Its main method of execution relies on manipulating computer users into connecting to a rogue network via a wireless (Wi-Fi) connection. Once the infected hosts are in range the MITM attack is initiated either manually or by following an predefined attack pattern:
- The hacker controllers or the scripts automatically selects the target victims from all available connected clients to the rogue network.
- The file injection is done using JavaScript code to the browsers. The hackers employ
- The crypto currency miner starts to mine the designated crypto currency (Monero) using predefined settings.
- All affected devices on the rogue network are configured to report back to the host that started the infection.
The JavaScript miner code is executed on the target hosts. The proof-of-concept coed and demonstrations used the CoinHive code which mines the Monero cryptocurrency (XMR). This is one of the most popular alternatives to the Bitcoin currency as it is privacy-centric and has become very popular in the last few months. Further modifications of the code can institute two types of malware infections. The first and more common miner installation is the in-browser execution which automatically starts the miner software once the infected web browser is opened. The persistent infiltration burrows itself deep into the operating system and launched itself when the computer is booted. Certain versions can use advanced techniques to protect themselves from removal.
Advanced virus strains and customized versions of the CoffeeMiner malware can also be used to institute other system changes. This can either disrupt the normal functioning of the computers or result in additional malware delivery. If the behavior patterns are configured to run in a multi-stage delivery then the initial post-infection phase can include a stealth protection module. It is used to scan the computer for the presence of any anti-virus products, sandboxes, debugging tools and virtual machines. If the virus finds that it cannot bypass them then it can remove itself to avoid detection.
Some of the customized malware instances engage in information gathering operations that seek to extract as much valuable data as possible. There are two main groups of data that can be outlined in these kind of attacks — anonymous metrics and personally-identifiable data. The first one is related mainly to the hardware components and configuration of the operating system. The second group of data can be used to directly expose the users by revealing details about their identity. Examples include the following: real names, address, telephone numbers, nicknames, user preferences, interests and etc. Remote administration of the compromised hosts can be achieved using two methods:
- Server Control — This method employs malware code that automatically connects the infected machine to a command and control (C&C) server which is operated by the hackers. It allows them to execute arbitrary commands, as well as install additional modules to the targets at will.
- Trojan Component — Customized instances of the CoffeeMiner malware can employ a fully-featured Trojan module that directly communicates with the hackers. It not only allows them to monitor the users actions in real time but also overtake control of the machines in real time.
Further system changes include boot options that impact the way the computer starts. The hackers usually use this to prevent manual user recovery methods. The made alterations disable the Windows startup recovery function and certain options. When registry changes are enforced the victims may experience severe performance issues, as well as notice that certain services and applications may fail. Other malicious actions that can severely impact the systems is the ability to delete the discovered Shadow Volume Copies of a target host. Such information can then be only restored using a quality data recovery solution (refer to our guide below).
When several of these actions are combined the resulting effect can result in a persistent state of execution. This is a form of virus infiltaration that actively prevents the users from removing it. The malware can continuously monitor the users actions and prevent any removal attempts automatically.
The security experts speculate that since the CoffeeMiner malware infects the target hosts mainly via the browsers then it can also institute various browser hijackers. They represent dangerous browser plugins that are usually made for the most popular web browsers: Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Microsoft Edge, Internet Explorer, Safari and Opera. One of the main objectives of these type of malware is to redirect the victims to hacker-controlled sites. A typical scenario would include the modification of the most important settings such as: the default home page, search engine and new tabs page. Furthermore the hackers can also extract sensitive personal data such as: bookmarks, history, form data, preferences, cookies, passwords and account credentials. The hacker-controlled pages usually install intrusive tracking cookies that aim to extract sensitive information about the users interests and actions. All of this data is pooled into databases that are then sold to marketing agencies for profit.
It would be easy to deploy the CoffeeMiner malware as part of a complex hacking attack. The analysts note that the criminal operators can utilize a powerful Wi-Fi antenna and a small portable server or mobile device to maintain a wider range. Depending on the exact location, buildings and interference if made correctly the attack can potentially impact thousands of users.
We remind our readers once again that the malware code is written in the popular Python programming language which is very versatile. It allows the threat’s modular base to be further extended with additional components. If other tools are deployed the potential consequences can be even more damaging. One of the propositions is the interaction with the popular network analyzer nmap using a script. It would allow the malware to automatically attack the available IP addresses of the local network to the CoffeeMiner victim list. Another potential future implementation is the ssltrip component which ensures that the traffic alterations can also be made over the HTTPS secured sites.
How to Remove CoffeeMiner Miner Virus from Your Computer
The detection of the malicious CoffeeMiner miner virus is not that easy. It is a persistent threat that may remain hidden on the system for a long time. That’s why security experts recommend the help of a professional anti-malware tool for its detection and removal. Such a tool guarantees maximum removal efficiency and future malware protection.
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 CoffeeMiner.
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 CoffeeMiner with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Clean any registries, created by CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner 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.
CoffeeMiner FAQ
What Does CoffeeMiner Trojan Do?
The CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner, 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 CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this CoffeeMiner 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 CoffeeMiner?
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 CoffeeMiner threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand the threat posed by trojans, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.