How to remove CastleRAT from infected devices

What kind of malware is CastleRAT?

CastleRAT is a recently discovered Remote Access Trojan (RAT). It is designed to provide attackers with stealthy and persistent access to compromised devices. There are two versions of CastleRAT - more and less sophisticated. The latter can collect system details, download additional payloads, execute commands, and perform other tasks.

More about CastleRAT

Once CastleRAT infects a computer, it collects information about the system, including the device's name, the logged‑in user, the machine's unique GUID, IP address, and the Windows product name. After gathering this information, the malware sends it to its command‑and‑control server.

CastleRAT can run perform different malicious tasks on an infected device. One of these tasks is monitoring the clipboard. CastleRAT collects anything the user copies to the clipboard (like passwords or crypto wallet addresses) and sends it to the attacker. It can also hijack the clipboard and paste stolen data into a normal app or browser window.

Also, CastleRAT can record everything the victim types and send it to the attacker. It creates a background thread that captures keystrokes, saves them into text file, encrypts that file, and then uploads the encrypted data to the command‑and‑control server. Typically, keylogging feature is used to steal sensitive information like passwords or credit card details.

Furthermore, CastleRAT allows cybercriminals to run commands on the victim's device without opening a visible Command Prompt or PowerShell window. Instead of launching a normal shell, the malware secretly starts one in the background and connects to it through hidden communication pipes. This method enables cybercriminals to execute malicious actions undetected.

Moreover, CastleRAT can terminate a user's browser and restart it in a quiet Chromium‑based mode using special audio‑related flags. This allows the malware to monitor or control audio activity while reducing alerts or other visible signs to the user. The RAT can also detect what webcams or microphones are connected to the computer and use them to capture audio or video.

In addition to capturing audio and video, the malware can take screenshots. This allows cybercriminals to collect any information that is visible on the victim's screen. It is also important to note that CastleRAT can open the Windows "Run" dialog box. Threat actors can use this capability to trick victims into entering commands, file paths, credentials, or other data.

Additionally, CastleRAT can create a Scheduled Task that automatically starts the malware every time the computer boots, and can trick Windows into granting it higher-level privileges without displaying a User Account Control pop-up. These capabilities enable the RAT to remain active even after a restart and obtain higher-level permissions on the infected system.

Conclusion

CastleRAT is a stealthy malware that gives attackers extensive control over an infected device. Its capabilities include monitoring the clipboard, logging keystrokes, taking screenshots, capturing audio or video, hijacking a browser, running hidden command shells, persisting through system reboots, and escalating its privileges.

Overall, the RAT is designed to remain undetected, maintain long-term access, and provide attackers with methods to steal data and control the system. More examples of RATs are Syntrix, OctoRAT, and ScoringMathTea.

How did CastleRAT infiltrate my computer?

Malware can infiltrate devices through malicious files, including executables, documents, scripts, ISO images, and archives. It is frequently delivered through pirated software, key generators, cracking tools, and software vulnerabilities. Threat actors also employ deceptive tactics, including phishing emails, technical support scams, and malicious advertisements.

Other distribution channels include infected USB drives, P2P networks, and untrustworthy (or hijacked) websites. In most cases, devices can become infected after opening malicious files or links.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Keep your operating system and software up to date, and be careful with unexpected emails or messages from unknown senders, especially those containing links or attachments. Only download applications from trusted official websites or reputable app stores. Avoid pirated programs, keygens, and cracking tools.

It is also important to avoid interacting with ads, pop‑ups, or other elements on suspicious websites and to block these sites from sending notifications. Using a reputable security solution and running periodic scans is also advisable. 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.

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 CastleRAT?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of CastleRAT 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 CastleRAT malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Formatting your storage device will definitely remove CastleRAT, but it is a drastic step and not always necessary. Usually, malware can be removed using tools like Combo Cleaner.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can steal sensitive data (e.g., passwords, credit cards), lock or encrypt files, use resources to mine cryptocurrency, damage or delete files, disrupt system operations, spread to other devices or networks, and lead to additional infections.

What is the purpose of CastleRAT?

CastleRAT's purpose is to give attackers control over an infected device. It collects sensitive data, spies on user activity, executes commands remotely, and maintains persistence so the attacker can continue monitoring, stealing information, or running additional malicious actions without being detected.

How did CastleRAT infiltrate my computer?

Malware spreads through malicious files, pirated software, keygens, software vulnerabilities, phishing emails, tech-support scams, malicious ads, infected USB drives, P2P networks, and unsafe websites. Devices typically get infected when users open harmful files or click on malicious links.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can detect and remove most types of malware, but because advanced threats can hide deep in the system, running a full system scan is essential.