How to remove JelusRAT from infected computers

What kind of malware is JelusRAT?

JelusRAT is a remote access trojan (RAT) that provides remote control over the infected computer. The RAT is written in C++ and uses a loader that unlocks (decrypts) the main malware. Once decrypted, the malware runs directly in memory, instead of being saved as a separate file, making it harder to detect. If detected, JelusRAT should be removed immediately.

More about JelusRAT

The loader pretends to be a harmless program that starts the malicious code. Inside the loader, there are two hidden and locked (encrypted) parts: one contains the main malware, and the other contains JelusRAT's settings. The loader decrypts and runs the main malware directly in memory, and ultimately deletes itself.

Once executed, the main payload opens a settings file (Info.ini) to get instructions. As soon as it reads the file, it deletes it to hide evidence. The data in the file is scrambled, and the malware uses a small value within the file (the first byte) to unscramble and execute those instructions.

JelusRAT can receive various commands from cybercriminals. It can mark itself as a critical process, so if the victim tries to stop/terminate it, Windows shows a blue screen. The RAT can also disable the aforementioned function, modify how it contacts the attacker's server, and shut itself down.

Besides basic commands, JelusRAT can download extra add‑ons (plugins) from the attacker's server. These plugins are DLL files that add new features, making the malware modular and expandable. The main malware does not do much on its own - most of its capabilities come from these plugins.

JelusRAT can be used to deploy additional malware, such as ransomware, cryptocurrency miners, information stealers, and other types of malware.

Conclusion

Overall, JelusRAT is a stealthy, flexible malware designed to evade detection and maintain control over infected systems. Its use of in‑memory execution, self‑deletion, and modular plugins allows attackers to adapt and expand its capabilities as needed. This makes JelusRAT a serious threat that can serve as a platform for delivering more dangerous malware.

More examples of RATs are ModeloRAT, Covert, and Pulsar.

How did JelusRAT infiltrate my computer?

Malware is commonly delivered through phishing emails that contain harmful links or attachments, as well as through fake advertisements, tech support scams, pirated software, and compromised websites. Attackers rely on malicious files, such as executables, scripts, and documents like Word, Excel, PDF, or ISO files, to trick users into running the malware.

In addition, malware can spread through infected USB devices, peer‑to‑peer networks, third‑party download tools, and unpatched software vulnerabilities. Generally, cybercriminals succeed when users perform actions that lead to malware infiltration.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Be careful with unexpected emails or messages from unknown sources. Do not click on links or open attachments/files in suspicious messages. Only download software from official sites or trusted app stores, and never use pirated programs, cracks, or key generators. Keep your system and apps updated, and run regular scans with reliable security software.

Also, avoid clicking on pop-ups, ads, or buttons on untrusted websites, and block any notification requests from these sites. 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 JelusRAT?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of JelusRAT 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 JelusRAT malware, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

Formatting your storage device will remove JelusRAT, but it will also erase all data. A safer approach is to use trusted security software, like Combo Cleaner, which can eliminate the malware without affecting files stored on the device.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can be used to steal sensitive data like passwords and banking details, take control of a system, install additional malicious software, encrypt or lock files, mine cryptocurrency, and carry out many other harmful activities.

What is the purpose of JelusRAT?

The purpose of JelusRAT is to give attackers remote control over an infected system and use it as a platform for further attacks. It allows cybercriminals to manage the victim's device, load additional malware through plugins, and deploy threats such as ransomware, information stealers, or cryptocurrency miners.

How did a malware infiltrate my computer?

Malware often spreads through phishing emails, fake ads, scams, pirated software, and compromised websites, using malicious files to trick users into running it. It can also propagate via USB drives, peer-to-peer networks, third-party downloaders, and software vulnerabilities.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can detect and remove nearly all known malware. However, advanced malware often hides deep within the system, so it is important to perform a full system scan to ensure removal.