What Is Vigorf?
In this article, we will cover what Vigorf trojan is and how to remove it from your affected device.
The Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 | Vigorf 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 |
See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware
Download
Malware Removal Tool
|
Vigorf Trojan — Overview
The Vigorf Trojan is a family of several popular malware variants which have been used by computer hackers for several years now. The attacks associated with it are being organized in distinct campaigns that have different goals, configuration options and means of distribution. The malware has a high detection rate, as visible in the screenshot below.
There are multiple ways that can be used to infect target victims. A popular method is the creation and distribution of malware files — when they are executed the relevant infection will start. A popular strategy is to embed the necessary code into commonly downloaded files — they can be macro-infected documents, app setup files or even “cracks” and software/game patches. Depending on the target victims the hackers can use various file names and descriptions.
The most likely way to get infected with the Trojan is to fall for a phishing scam — they are often organized via email messages and hacker-controlled sites. The goal of the hackers is to manipulate the visitors and readers into thinking that they have received a legitimate message or are visiting a safe landing page of a well-known company or service. This is done by hosting the relevant sites and emails on domain names that sound very similar to the companies and organizations which are impersonated, also scam design and layout can be implemented.
The malicious Vigorf Trojan files may also be uploaded to file-sharing networks like BitTorrent where popular pirate data is found. The social engineering techniques can also include popular social networks in which the hackers can create fake profiles or hack already existing ones. The dangerous files can be linked in private messages, public posts and group conversations.
One of the latest campaigns is focused on releasing fake uTorrent torrent client files — the hackers are using version number installer files such as utorrent-2-2-1-2.exe and related. This is intentional as many users may directly search for the program on search engines and download sites. By preparing the hacker sites accordingly they can rank up and the victims may confuse them for legitimate download portals.
One of the first actions of the new and improved Vigorf Trojan is to create a separate user with administrator privileges which will be used by the main engine. This means that the malware will have completed control over the infected computers, allowing it to edit configuration files, remove system data and also manipulate every aspect of the operating system.
Vigorf Trojan Capabilities
According to the available research the malware engine of the Trojan has the capability of creating and editing Windows Registry values — this allows the Trojan to create values for itself and also to modify existing ones. Depending on the actual configuration this can result in performance issues, loss of valuable data and faults in system services.
The local Trojan engine will also connect to a several porn sites located in the Netherlands. They may serve as proxies to hacker-controlled machines which will allow the hackers to take over the contaminated computers. This also includes the possibility to spy on the users and hijack their data.
Some of the newest samples also include a detailed information gathering module — it is used to gather both personal information, machine data and also installed cryptocurrency wallet credentials.
How to Remove Vigorf Trojan
In order to fully remove Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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.
Follow Me:
Preparation before removing Vigorf 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 Vigorf Trojan with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool
Step 2: Clean any registries, created by Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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.
Vigorf Trojan FAQ
What Does Vigorf Trojan Trojan Do?
The Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf Trojan Research
The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Vigorf 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 Vigorf 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 Vigorf Trojan threat is backed with VirusTotal.
To better understand the threat posed by trojans, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.