How to remove ACR stealer-type malware from your operating system

What kind of malware is ACR?

ACR is a stealer-type malware with multiple versions, including a rebrand variant known as Amatera. ACR targets a variety of sensitive data, such as passwords and cryptocurrency wallets. This stealer is offered as MaaS (Malware-as-a-Service) and has been used in multiple large-scale campaigns.

ACR malware overview

As mentioned in the introduction, many variants of ACR and a rebrand version dubbed "Amatera" exist. This malware is classed as a stealer – a program designed to steal information from infected devices.

The ACR stealer utilizes anti-analysis and anti-detection techniques. Later variants like Amatera employ virtual machine and sandbox detection abilities and use obfuscated code. As of the time of writing, there are continuous developments in the malware's protective measures.

Throughout its existence ACR has used various tactics for C&C (Command and Control) servers, and the newest versions have relied on unique platforms like obtaining commands from Google Docs.

The stealer can extract data from systems and installed applications (non-exhaustive list below). It can acquire information from browsers, including browsing histories, Internet cookies, auto-fills (e.g., personally identifiable details, usernames, etc.), passwords, credit/debit card numbers, and so on. ACR targets browser extensions like those related to cryptocurrency, tools for bypassing censorship, and password managers. It can obtain contact lists, chats, and session keys from multiple messengers.

Other apps of interest include cryptocurrency wallets, email clients, password managers, VPN (Virtual Private Network) clients, remote access software, FTP (File Transfer Protocol) clients, and note-taking programs.

This stealer also has grabber functionalities – it can download files from the "Documents" and "Recent" directories. Files are searched based on a keywords list (e.g., "bitcoin", "metamask", "seed", "wallet", etc.).

Some variants of ACR can download files onto the compromised system from external URLs. Hence, this program could be used to cause chain infections. In theory, software capable of such can cause just about any type of infection (e.g., trojan, ransomware, cryptocurrency miner, etc.). However, in practice, these programs tend to operate within certain limitations or specifications.

It must be mentioned that malware developers commonly improve upon their software and methodologies. Therefore, potential future iterations of ACR could have additional/different functionalities or a broader target list.

In summary, the presence of software like the ACR stealer on a device can lead to multiple system infections, serious privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

Stealer-type malware examples

We have investigated thousands of malicious programs; TamperedChef, Raven, DarkCloud, and JSCEAL are just a few of our latest articles on stealers.

This type of malware can seek specific details or a wide variety of data. It is likewise worth mentioning that stealers are commonly used in combination with other programs, and data-stealing capabilities are prevalent in general.

It must be stressed that regardless of how malware operates – its presence on a system threatens device integrity and user safety. Therefore, all threats must be removed immediately upon detection.

How did ACR infiltrate my computer?

ACR is offered as MaaS (Malware-as-a-Service); thus, it has been used by various cyber criminals and proliferated using different methods.

Notable campaigns include one that employed malicious code injection into websites (specifically, ClearFake attacks) and spread the Amatera variant. Another example is a campaign that took place in 2024 that exploited a vulnerability tracked as "CVE-2024-21412" and proliferated ACR, Meduza, and Lumma.

In a global campaign distributing Latrodectus loader and ACR – Google-themed security scam sites were used. As of the time of writing, the latest 2025 campaign spread ACR together with Lumma using illegal software activation tools ("cracks").

Observed distribution techniques include: "cracking" tools and trojanized programs promoted through malvertising (malicious ads), spam forum posts, and Torrenting websites; drive-by (stealthy/deceptive) downloads produced by compromised webpages; and spam emails containing malicious attachments or links.

Other distribution methods are not unlikely. Phishing and social engineering are standard in malware proliferation. Aside from the techniques already mentioned, malware is commonly spread via trojans (backdoors/loaders), online scams, untrustworthy download channels (e.g., Peer-to-Peer sharing networks, freeware and third-party sites, etc.), spam (e.g., emails, PMs/DMs, social media/ forum posts, etc.), and fake updates.

Some malicious programs can self-proliferate through local networks and removable storage devices (e.g., external hard drives, USB flash drives, etc.).

Malware is usually disguised as or bundled with ordinary software/media files. They can be executables (.exe, .run, etc.), archives (ZIP, RAR, etc.), documents (Microsoft Office, Microsoft OneNote, PDF, etc.), JavaScript, and so on. Merely opening a virulent file can be enough to trigger the system infection process.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Caution is essential to device and user safety. Therefore, always research software prior to downloading/purchasing. Download only from official and trustworthy sources. Activate and update programs using legitimate functions/tools, as those obtained from third-parties can contain malware.

Additionally, be vigilant when browsing since the Internet is rife with deceptive and dangerous content. Exercise caution with incoming emails and other messages; do not open attachments or links found in suspicious mail.

It is paramount to have a reputable antivirus installed and kept up-to-date. Security software must be used to run regular system scans and to remove detected threats and issues. 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.

Select list of software targeted by ACR stealer:

Targeted browsers:

• 360Browser
• Brave
• CocCoc
• Google Chrome
• K-Meleon
• Mozilla Firefox
• Microsoft Edge
• Opera
• Vivaldi

Targeted cryptowallets and cryptocurrency-related browser extensions:

• Binance
• Bitcoin
• Coinbase
• Electrum
• Exodus
• Ledger Live
• MetaMask

Targeted messengers:

• Psi+
• Signal
• Telegram
• Tox
• WhatsApp

Targeted email clients:

• eM Client
• Microsoft Outlook
• The Bat!

Targeted password managers:

• 1Password
• Bitwarden
• NordPass

Targeted FTP clients:

• FileZilla
• WinSCP

Targeted VPN clients:

• AzireVPN
• NordVPN

Targeted remote access software:

• AnyDesk

Targeted desktop note applications:

• Sticky Notes

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:

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.

Quick menu:

• What is ACR?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of ACR malware.
• STEP 2. Check if your computer is clean.

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:

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:

Download a program called Autoruns. This program shows auto-start applications, Registry, and file system locations:

Restart 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.

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.

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.

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

Extract the downloaded archive and run the Autoruns.exe file.

In 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.

Check 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".

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.

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 ACR malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Malware removal rarely requires formatting.

What are the biggest issues that ACR malware can cause?

The dangers posed by an infection depend on the malware's functionalities and the cyber criminals' goals. ACR is a stealer – a type of malware that exfiltrates sensitive data from systems. The presence of this stealer can lead to multiple system infections, severe privacy issues, financial losses, and identity theft.

What is the purpose of ACR malware?

Primarily, malware is used to generate revenue. However, attackers may also be motivated by amusement, personal grudges, hacktivism, and political/geopolitical reasons.

How did ACR malware infiltrate my computer?

ACR has been spread via software "cracks", trojanized programs, Torrenting sites, drive-by downloads, web-injects, exploits, scam webpages, spam emails, and forum posts. Different distribution techniques are possible.

Aside from those mentioned, malware is proliferated through dubious download sources (e.g., freeware and free file-hosting websites, P2P sharing networks, etc.), trojans, spam (e.g., emails, PMs/DMs, SMSes, etc.), and fake updates. Some malicious programs can self-spread via local networks and removable storage devices.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner is designed to scan systems and eliminate all manner of threats. It is capable of detecting and removing most of the known malware infections. Remember that performing a complete system scan is crucial since sophisticated malicious programs tend to hide deep within systems.