Trojan.Madominer Coin Miner Worm - How to Remove It from Windows

by Ventsislav Krastev | October 2, 2018 | 0 Comments

This article has been created in order to explain what is the Trojan.Madominer virus and how you can remove this miner worm completely.

A new Trojan that is also a worm infection has been detected by security researchers at Symantec. The Trojan’s primary purpose is to convince victims to install itself by exploiting vulnerabilities in Windows and then use this to install a coin miner tht connects to multiple mining servers to mine the infected computers for cryptocurrencies. In the events that you suspect an infection by the Trojan.Madominer infection, we recommend that you read the following article to learn more about it plus how you can remove it from your PC thoroughly.

On this page:

Threat Summary Trojan.Madominer – Distribution Trojan.Madominer Coin Miner Virus – Analysis Remove Madominer Trojan Completely from Your Computer

Threat Summary

Name	Trojan.Madominer
Type	Trojan and Worm
Short Description	Slithers on your computer and runs a process which connects to miner servers and begins to mine for cryptocurrencies.=.
Symptoms	Your PC might experience a 100% CPU and GPU usage, overheating and extreme slowing down.
Distribution Method	Malicious executable files uploaded online, malicious e-mail spam attachments.
Detection Tool	See If Your System Has Been Affected by malware Download Malware Removal Tool
User Experience	Join Our Forum to Discuss Trojan.Madominer.

Trojan.Madominer – Distribution

In order for the Trojan.Madominer to be widespread, the infection may be triggered via a remote host as a result of exploiting the three following vulnerabilities:

Microsoft Windows Remote Buffer Overflow Vulnerability (CVE-2017-9073)
Microsoft Windows SMB Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (CVE-2017-0143)
Microsoft Windows SMB Server Remote Code Execution Vulnerability (CVE-2017-0146)

These vulnerabilities might be embedded into a malicious e-mail attachment or even a malicious JavaScript that is uploaded on a URL. The most often methods of infection with Trojans is to take advantage of online communication platforms, like Messenger, Google Drive, Gmail, Skype and many others and use them to send a file, that is often masked as a legitimate docment, like:

A picture of your friend.
An online e-mail attachment that pretends to be an invoice or a receipt.
A password recovery protocol.
Important banking statement.

Trojan.Madominer Coin Miner Virus – Analysis

When the Trojan.Madominer has infected a certain computer, the virus creates the following folders:

→ %System%\Tasks\GooglePinginConfigs
%System%\Tasks\RavTask

Then, the Trojan.Madominer drops it’s malicious files on the victim PC and they could have the following names and locations:

→ %ProgramFiles%\stormii\server.exe
%SystemDrive%\[PATH TO MALWARE]\[MALWARE ROOT]\tem.vbs
%System Drive%\IIS\CPUInfo.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\Doublepulsar-1.3.1.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\Esteemaudit-2.1.0.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\Esteemaudittouch-2.1.0.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\Eternalblue-2.2.0.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\Eternalchampion-2.0.0.exe
%System Drive%\IIS\free.bat
%System Drive%\IIS\s.bat

But the virus does not stop there as it creates a lot of tasks and registries to kill different executables that belong to Windows and to run exectuables that perform the mining process as an administrator without them being bothered. Symantec report the following registy values to be created:

• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\1.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\2.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\3.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\Systmss.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\csrss..exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\nanol.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\svchostr.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\wax.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\wuauc1t.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”
• HKEY_LOCAL_MACHINE\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows NT\CurrentVersion\Image File Execution Options\ystmss.exe\”debugger” = “taskkill.exe”

Next, the Madominer Trojan could download additional miner files from several suspicious domains, that end in .com:3 and .info:3. The virus also remotely connects to 8 different servers that end in .info which help it relay the cryptocurrency mining information and begin the mining process.

The malware also has a worm function enabled, meaning that it could propagate to other PCs in the same network and could possibly create copies of it’s infection files to be spread via USB and other removable drives connected to the infected computer in question.

If you suspect that the Madominer Trojan is installed on your PC, do not underestimate it and remove it ASAP. If the Trojan stays for long time on your PC, it may do a lot more than just mine for cryptocurrencies, like Monero and BitCoin at your computer resources’ expense. The virus may also perform spyware activities, such as:

Obtain your keystrokes via a keylogger program.
Steal different types of files and folders directly from your drive.
Take screenshots from your desktop.
Steal passwords.
Steal camera and audio communication and record it.

Remove Madominer Trojan Completely from Your Computer

If you want to remove the Madominer malware from your PC effectively, we suggest that you follow the removal instructions underneath this article. They have been created with the primary purpose to help you delete the malicious files of the virus effectively from your computer either manually or automatically. If manual removal does not seem to work against this worm, most experts do advise to download and scan your PC by using an advanced anti-malware program, whose main purpose is to detect and fully erase all the malicious files and objects, belonging to the Trojan.Madominer infection.

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.

Step 1: Boot Your PC In Safe Mode to isolate and remove Trojan.Madominer

OFFER

Manual Removal Usually Takes Time and You Risk Damaging Your Files If Not Careful!

We Recommend To Scan Your PC with SpyHunter

Keep in mind, that SpyHunter’s scanner is only for malware detection. If SpyHunter detects malware on your PC, you will need to purchase SpyHunter's malware removal tool to remove the malware threats. Read our SpyHunter 5 review. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria

1. Hold Windows key () + R Remove Virus Trojan Step 1

2. The "Run" Window will appear. In it, type "msconfig" and click OK. Remove Virus Trojan Step 2

3. Go to the "Boot" tab. There select "Safe Boot" and then click "Apply" and "OK". Remove Virus Trojan Step 3

Tip: Make sure to reverse those changes by unticking Safe Boot after that, because your system will always boot in Safe Boot from now on.

4. When prompted, click on "Restart" to go into Safe Mode. Remove Virus Trojan Step 4

5. You can recognize Safe Mode by the words written on the corners of your screen. Remove Virus Trojan Step 5

Step 2: Clean any registries, created by Trojan.Madominer 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 Trojan.Madominer there. This can happen by following the steps underneath:

1. Open the Run Window again, type "regedit" and click OK. Remove Virus Trojan Step 6

2. When you open it, you can freely navigate to the Run and RunOnce keys, whose locations are shown above. Remove Virus Trojan Step 7

3. You can remove the value of the virus by right-clicking on it and removing it. Remove Virus Trojan Step 8

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 Trojan.Madominer on your PC.

For Windows 8, 8.1 and 10.

For Windows XP, Vista, and 7.

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.

< Remove Virus Trojan Step 9

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:

file extension malicious

N.B. We recommend to wait for the green loading bar in the navination box to fill up in case the PC is looking for the file and hasn't found it yet.

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.

IMPORTANT!
Before starting "Step 4", please boot back into Normal mode, in case you are currently in Safe Mode.
This will enable you to install and use SpyHunter 5 successfully.

Step 4: Scan for Trojan.Madominer with SpyHunter Anti-Malware Tool

1. Click on the "Download" button to proceed to SpyHunter's download page.

Download

Malware Removal Tool

It is recommended to run a scan before purchasing the full version of the software to make sure that the current version of the malware can be detected by SpyHunter. Click on the corresponding links to check SpyHunter's EULA, Privacy Policy and Threat Assessment Criteria.

2. After you have installed SpyHunter, wait for it to update automatically.

SpyHunter 5 Scan Step 1

3. After the update process has finished, click on the 'Malware/PC Scan' tab. A new window will appear. Click on 'Start Scan'.

SpyHunter 5 Scan Step 2

4. After SpyHunter has finished scanning your PC for any files of the associated threat and found them, you can try to get them removed automatically and permanently by clicking on the 'Next' button.

SpyHunter 5 Scan Step 3

If any threats have been removed, it is highly recommended to restart your PC.

Trojan.Madominer FAQ

What Does Trojan.Madominer Trojan Do?

The Trojan.Madominer 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.

What Damage Can Trojan.Madominer Trojan Cause?

The Trojan.Madominer Trojan is a malicious type of malware that can cause significant damage to computers, networks and data. It can be used to steal information, take control of systems, and spread other malicious viruses and malware.

Is Trojan.Madominer Trojan a Harmful Virus?

Yes, it is. A Trojan is a type of malicious software that is used to gain unauthorized access to a person's device or system. It can damage files, delete data, and even steal confidential information.

Can Trojans, Like Trojan.Madominer Steal Passwords?

Yes, Trojans, like Trojan.Madominer, 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 Trojan.Madominer 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.R

Can a Trojan Virus be Removed by Factory Reset?

Yes, a Trojan Virus 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.

Can Trojan.Madominer 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.

Are Trojans Hard to Remove?

Yes, Trojans can be very hard to remove as they often disguise themselves as legitimate programs, making them difficult to detect and extremely tricky to remove.

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 Trojan.Madominer Research

The content we publish on SensorsTechForum.com, this Trojan.Madominer 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 Trojan.Madominer?

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 Trojan.Madominer threat is backed with VirusTotal.

To better understand the threat posed by trojans, please refer to the following articles which provide knowledgeable details.

References

1. Trojan Horse – What Is It?
2. Trojanized AnyDesk App Delivered through Fake Google Ads
3. Hackers Continue to Use Malicious Excel 4.0 Macros to Deliver Banking Trojans
4. Ficker Infostealer Uses Fake Spotify Ads to Propagate
5. Jupyter Infostealer Malware Targets Chrome and Firefox Browser Data

Trojan.Madominer Coin Miner Worm – How to Remove It from Windows