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How to eliminate MINIBUS malware from infected computers

Also Known As: MINIBUS backdoor
Type: Trojan
Damage level: Severe

What kind of malware is MINIBUS?

MINIBUS is a backdoor malware developed in C++, offering a range of capabilities such as extracting files, executing commands, communicating with cloud infrastructure, and more. Once activated, it grants cybercriminals unauthorized access to infected computers.

MINIBUS malware

More about MINIBUS

MINIBUS acts as a backdoor, providing unauthorized entry to compromised devices. This allows cybercriminals to remotely execute commands, steal sensitive files, and introduce more malicious software. Furthermore, MINIBUS establishes connections with Azure cloud infrastructure, aiding in data transfers and command-and-control functions.

Its use of search order hijacking and camouflaging as genuine processes or services to evade detection is noteworthy. Its modular structure enables it to adjust and bypass conventional security protocols, ensuring continual access to compromised systems while reducing the likelihood of detection and elimination.

MINIBUS shares similar capabilities with another backdoor known as MINIBIKE. Moreover, it offers a more adaptable code-execution interface and advanced data-gathering functionalities compared to MINIBIKE.

The additional functionalities of MINIBUS include a command interface for executing code, the ability to enumerate processes, export DLL names, establish C2 communications, employ lure themes, and target specific regions or demographics.

Victims of MINIBUS may encounter a range of problems due to the malware's intrusive nature. These may include unauthorized access to sensitive information, such as personal data or business documents, leading to potential privacy breaches and identity theft.

Additionally, the ability of MINIBUS to execute commands remotely can result in system instability or damage, disrupting normal computer operations. This may include injecting additional payloads.

Threat Summary:
Name MINIBUS backdoor
Threat Type Backdoor
Detection Names Avast (Win32:MalwareX-gen [Trj]), Combo Cleaner (Trojan.GenericKD.71522473), ESET-NOD32 (A Variant Of Win32/Kimsuky.CD), Kaspersky (UDS:Trojan.Win32.Kimsuky.gen), Microsoft (Backdoor:Win64/SlugResin.B!dha), Full List (VirusTotal)
Symptoms Backdoor malware is designed to stealthily infiltrate the victim's computer and remain silent, and thus no particular symptoms are clearly visible on an infected machine.
Distribution methods Infected email attachments, social media, malicious online advertisements, social engineering, software 'cracks'.
Damage Stolen passwords and banking information, identity theft, the victim's computer added to a botnet, additional infections, monetary loss, and more.
Malware Removal (Windows)

To eliminate possible malware infections, scan your computer with legitimate antivirus software. Our security researchers recommend using Combo Cleaner.
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To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Conclusion

In conclusion, MINIBUS poses a significant threat to cybersecurity with its advanced backdoor capabilities, including unauthorized access, remote command execution, and communication with cloud infrastructure. Its ability to evade detection and adapt to different environments underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and proactive defense strategies to mitigate the risks posed by such sophisticated malware.

How did MINIBUS infiltrate my computer?

Cyber attackers deceive individuals into executing MINIBUS on their computers through the creation of a fraudulent recruitment website, appearing genuine yet harboring malicious code. This deceptive platform is disseminated via social networks and emails, often masquerading as employment opportunities in technology or defense-related sectors.

When unsuspecting individuals visit the site or access the contents of malicious emails, they inadvertently trigger the activation of the MINIBUS malware on their devices. Alternative methods of malware dissemination encompass infected USB drives or similar removable storage devices, alongside exploiting software or operating system vulnerabilities.

Furthermore, malware propagation extends to social manipulation techniques, enticing users to interact with counterfeit advertisements or download ostensibly harmless files from dubious sources such as peer-to-peer networks and third-party download platforms. Moreover, pirated software, key generators, and cracking tools serve as conduits for malware deployment.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Exercise caution while navigating the internet and interacting with emails. Exercise vigilance towards dubious emails, especially those originating from unfamiliar sources or containing unexpected attachments or hyperlinks. Download programs and files solely from reputable sources, and maintain regular updates for your operating system and applications.

Employ reliable antivirus or anti-malware programs, conducting routine computer scans for potential threats. Lastly, refrain from placing trust in advertisements, pop-ups, or comparable content on dubious websites, and abstain from downloading pirated software or utilizing cracking tools.

If you believe that your computer is already infected, we recommend running a scan with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows to automatically eliminate infiltrated malware.

Fake job descriptions used during the distribution of MINIBUS:

MINIBUS malware distributing document 1 MINIBUS malware distributing document 2 MINIBUS malware distributing document 3

Instant automatic malware removal: Manual threat removal might be a lengthy and complicated process that requires advanced IT skills. Combo Cleaner is a professional automatic malware removal tool that is recommended to get rid of malware. Download it by clicking the button below:
▼ DOWNLOAD Combo Cleaner By downloading any software listed on this website you agree to our Privacy Policy and Terms of Use. To use full-featured product, you have to purchase a license for Combo Cleaner. 7 days free trial available. Combo Cleaner is owned and operated by Rcs Lt, the parent company of PCRisk.com read more.

Quick menu:

How to remove malware manually?

Manual malware removal is a complicated task - usually it is best to allow antivirus or anti-malware programs to do this automatically. To remove this malware we recommend using Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.

If you wish to remove malware manually, the first step is to identify the name of the malware that you are trying to remove. Here is an example of a suspicious program running on a user's computer:

Malware process running in the Task Manager

If you checked the list of programs running on your computer, for example, using task manager, and identified a program that looks suspicious, you should continue with these steps:

manual malware removal step 1Download a program called Autoruns. This program shows auto-start applications, Registry, and file system locations:

Autoruns application appearance

manual malware removal step 2Restart your computer into Safe Mode:

Windows XP and Windows 7 users: Start your computer in Safe Mode. Click Start, click Shut Down, click Restart, click OK. During your computer start process, press the F8 key on your keyboard multiple times until you see the Windows Advanced Option menu, and then select Safe Mode with Networking from the list.

Run Windows 7 or Windows XP in Safe Mode with Networking

Video showing how to start Windows 7 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

Windows 8 users: Start Windows 8 is Safe Mode with Networking - Go to Windows 8 Start Screen, type Advanced, in the search results select Settings. Click Advanced startup options, in the opened "General PC Settings" window, select Advanced startup.

Click the "Restart now" button. Your computer will now restart into the "Advanced Startup options menu". Click the "Troubleshoot" button, and then click the "Advanced options" button. In the advanced option screen, click "Startup settings".

Click the "Restart" button. Your PC will restart into the Startup Settings screen. Press F5 to boot in Safe Mode with Networking.

Run Windows 8 in Safe Mode with Networking

Video showing how to start Windows 8 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

Windows 10 users: Click the Windows logo and select the Power icon. In the opened menu click "Restart" while holding "Shift" button on your keyboard. In the "choose an option" window click on the "Troubleshoot", next select "Advanced options".

In the advanced options menu select "Startup Settings" and click on the "Restart" button. In the following window you should click the "F5" button on your keyboard. This will restart your operating system in safe mode with networking.

Run Windows 10 in Safe Mode with Networking

Video showing how to start Windows 10 in "Safe Mode with Networking":

manual malware removal step 3Extract the downloaded archive and run the Autoruns.exe file.

Extract Autoruns.zip archive and run Autoruns.exe application

manual malware removal step 4In the Autoruns application, click "Options" at the top and uncheck "Hide Empty Locations" and "Hide Windows Entries" options. After this procedure, click the "Refresh" icon.

Refresh Autoruns application results

manual malware removal step 5Check the list provided by the Autoruns application and locate the malware file that you want to eliminate.

You should write down its full path and name. Note that some malware hides process names under legitimate Windows process names. At this stage, it is very important to avoid removing system files. After you locate the suspicious program you wish to remove, right click your mouse over its name and choose "Delete".

Delete malware in Autoruns

After removing the malware through the Autoruns application (this ensures that the malware will not run automatically on the next system startup), you should search for the malware name on your computer. Be sure to enable hidden files and folders before proceeding. If you find the filename of the malware, be sure to remove it.

Search for malware and delete it

Reboot your computer in normal mode. Following these steps should remove any malware from your computer. Note that manual threat removal requires advanced computer skills. If you do not have these skills, leave malware removal to antivirus and anti-malware programs.

These steps might not work with advanced malware infections. As always it is best to prevent infection than try to remove malware later. To keep your computer safe, install the latest operating system updates and use antivirus software. To be sure your computer is free of malware infections, we recommend scanning it with Combo Cleaner Antivirus for Windows.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

My computer is infected with MINIBUS malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

In the event of MINIBUS malware infection on your computer, it may not be imperative or advisable to immediately resort to formatting your storage device. Prioritize utilizing reputable antivirus or anti-malware software as an initial step to scan and eliminate the MINIBUS malware from your computer.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can lead to significant problems such as unauthorized data access, monetary loss, data encryption, further infections, identity theft, and compromised privacy.

What is the purpose MINIBUS?

The aim of the MINIBUS malware is to grant cybercriminals unauthorized entry into compromised devices, enabling them to remotely execute commands, extract sensitive data, and conduct other malicious activities.

How did MINIBUS infiltrate my computer?

MINIBUS may have infiltrated your computer through a deceptive recruiting website distributed through social media and emails disguised as job offers. Users inadvertently download the malware by visiting fake websites or accessing files attached to malicious emails.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner is proficient in identifying and eliminating nearly all malware. It is crucial to recognize that advanced malware might be deeply concealed within the system. Hence, a full system scan is imperative to ensure eradication.

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About the author:

Tomas Meskauskas

Tomas Meskauskas - expert security researcher, professional malware analyst.

I am passionate about computer security and technology. I have an experience of over 10 years working in various companies related to computer technical issue solving and Internet security. I have been working as an author and editor for pcrisk.com since 2010. Follow me on Twitter and LinkedIn to stay informed about the latest online security threats. Contact Tomas Meskauskas.

PCrisk security portal is brought by a company RCS LT. Joined forces of security researchers help educate computer users about the latest online security threats. More information about the company RCS LT.

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Malware activity

Global malware activity level today:

Medium threat activity

Increased attack rate of infections detected within the last 24 hours.

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