What Is ISpy Keylogger?
Keylogging software called iSpy has been released in several versions and is constantly tracked by malware researchers because of its high level of demand. The software is sold online as a part of a scheme to distribute it as a service, similar to RaaS schemes (ransomware as a service). It aims to log keystrokes live and hence steal Skype and other private messages and records as well as important credentials and passwords. In case you believe you have been infected by this keylogger we advise you read the below-mentioned article.
ISpy Keylogger Details
| Name | iSpy |
| Type | Advanced Keylogger |
| Short Description | Collects keystrokes, password data, Skype chat logs and other key-related information and sends it to a malicious C&C (Command and Control) server. |
| Symptoms | No symptoms. |
| Distribution Method | Spam Emails, Email Attachments, File Sharing Networks. |
| Detection Tool |
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How Does iSpy Infect
Malware researchers strongly advise users to beware of suspicious e-mails containing JavaScript or fake document file attachments, because this is the primary method of distribution iSpy keylogger uses. What the distributors of iSpy do is they attach the payload dropper which appears as a legitimate file that is well known. The attachment may be primarily done on e-mails that are spammed and have phishing characters, such as fake notifications from an important website, like PayPal or similar sites.
The iSpy Keylogger In-Depth
Once this malicious attachment which is essentially the loader of iSpy’s payload is activated on the computer it drops a payload in an obfuscated manner with the following languages used for it’s compression:
- .Net
- AutoIT
- Visual Basic 6.0
In addition to this the payload of iSpy has several modules responsible for different types of keylogging and also other features, like taking screenshots and PIN and password stealer components, just like some Trojans have. One of the features that were added to the latest version of iSpy keylogger aims to record Skype chats and erasing recorded messages. The keylogging software has a combination of other modules to deactivate any security pop-ups during infection.
Furthermore, the iSpy keylogger creates a sub-key with a value string pre-programmed to run a module that disables antivirus software. The targeted key is the following:
Software \Microsoft\Windows NT \ CurrentVersion \ Image File Execution Options
After this has been done, the iSpy malware runs an executable that may appear identical to the official rundll32.exe file.
To steal data from infected computers, the iSpy keylogger uses the three well-known protocols for data transfer:
- FTP
- HTTP
- SMTP
To transfer the logged data, iSpy also uses it’s custom created encryption cipher. Then it sends the data to an FTP account which is usually online and belongs to the cyber-criminals. It has the credentials of those accounts it uses in the log files themselves or the malicious files.
The iSpy Keylogger – Conclusion and Removal Instructions
Since iSpy is very powerful and highly concealed from security software, like conventional and well-known antivirus programs, it is very important to be careful what you open online. Usually, most loaders that are obfuscated and spread malware, like the iSpy keylogger have been pre-programmed to be undetected from most well-known antivirus programs during the infection process.
Furthermore, we have prepared the removal instructions below that will assist you to remove iSpy keylogger from your computer. But bear in mind that it may be difficult to manually uninstall this malware from your computer, because of the multiple concealed files and modules. It is advisable to use an advanced anti-malware software to scan your computer and detect every file and module associated with the virus to remove it.
Ventsislav Krastev
Ventsislav is a cybersecurity expert at SensorsTechForum since 2015. He has been researching, covering, helping victims with the latest malware infections plus testing and reviewing software and the newest tech developments. Having graduated Marketing as well, Ventsislav also has passion for learning new shifts and innovations in cybersecurity that become game changers. After studying Value Chain Management, Network Administration and Computer Administration of System Applications, he found his true calling within the cybersecrurity industry and is a strong believer in the education of every user towards online safety and security.
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Preparation before removing iSpy.
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 iSpy with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Clean any registries, created by iSpy 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 iSpy 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 iSpy 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.
iSpy FAQ
What Does iSpy Trojan Do?
The iSpy 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 iSpy, 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 iSpy 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 factory reset.
Can iSpy 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 iSpy Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this iSpy 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 iSpy?
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 iSpy threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand the threat posed by trojans, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.