How to remove SnappyClient from infected devices

What kind of malware is SnappyClient?

SnappyClient is malware delivered through HijackLoader. It is written in C++ and used by cybercriminals to remotely control infected devices (as a remote administration Trojan) and steal data. Once a system is infected, SnappyClient can communicate with a C2 server to receive instructions.

SnappyClient overview

To avoid detection, SnappyClient changes how Windows security checks work so that the malware is not detected. It does this by interfering with AMSI, which is the system that scans code for threats. Instead of letting AMSI report the threat, it forces it to appear safe.

Also, SnappyClient has an internal settings list that determines how it runs and where to store data. These settings control what data it steals, where it saves it, how it stays on the device, and whether it should stop or keep running. It also uses these settings to keep activity after a system reboot (persistence).

Additionally, the malware downloads two encrypted files from the attacker's server. These files are stored in a hidden, encrypted way and used to control what the malware does on the infected device.

SnappyClient's features

SnappyClient can capture images of the victim's screen and send them to cybercriminals. It can also view and manage running processes on the infected computer. SnappyClient can list active processes, suspend or resume them, or even terminate them completely, and it can inject malicious code into legitimate processes so it can run hidden on the system.

Furthermore, SnappyClient has a feature that lets it manage files and folders on the infected computer. It can list directory contents, copy, move, rename, delete, or create files and folders, and even compress or extract archives (including password-protected ones). It can also run files and check shortcuts.

The malware can also steal sensitive information from the infected computer. It can send keylogger data to the attacker, which records everything the user types. It can also steal saved browser passwords (login data), browser cookies, history, bookmarks, session information, and data from browser extensions. In addition to targeting browsers, SnappyClient can grab data from other installed software.

Moreover, SnappyClient includes a feature allowing it to search for and steal files (and folders) from the system and installed applications. Threat actors can target specific data by setting filters for file names or paths. Also, SnappyClient can download files from a remote server and save them on the infected computer.

Also, the malware can execute files in different ways, including normal execution, running DLL files, or extracting and running files from archives. It can also control how the file is launched, including its settings, directory, and command-line options. In some cases, it can try to bypass Windows security (UAC) to run files with administrator-level permissions.

The operators can also use SnappyClient to open a hidden browser session on the victim's computer to secretly view and control web activity. Additionally, they can use a command-line interface to run commands on the infected system. Another SnappyClient's capability is changing the clipboard contents. This tool is often used to insert crypto wallets belonging to cybercriminals.

Lastly, SnappyClient includes a feature that allows it to display fake pop-ups or open hidden browser windows on the victim's device. It can display a message box with custom text or create a window that loads web content inside it.

Targeted applications

It is known that SnappyClient can steal information from the following web browsers: 360 Browser, Brave, Chrome, CocCoc, Edge, Firefox, Opera, Slimjet, Vivaldi, and Waterfox. It also targets cryptocurrency wallet extensions such as Coinbase, Metamask, Phantom, TronLink, and TrustWallet.

Additionally, it can steal information from Atomic, BitcoinCore, Coinomi, Electrum, Exodus, LedgerLive, TrezorSuite, and Wasabi, which are software wallets, hardware wallet tools, and other crypto-related tools.

Conclusion

Overall, SnappyClient is an advanced apiece of malware designed to take control of an infected system while remaining hidden. It allows cybercriminals to monitor the victim, steal sensitive information, manipulate files and processes, and execute commands. SnappyClient attacks can cause issues like account hijacking, identity theft, additional infections, financial loss, and other problems.

How did SnappyClient infiltrate my computer?

SnappyClient is distributed through fake websites and social media tricks. In the first case, threat actors use a fake website that impersonates a real telecommunications company. When users visit the site, it secretly downloads a malicious file called HijackLoader onto their devices.

If users run this file, it unlocks and injects SnappyClient. Another way this malware spreads is through posts on social media (like X/Twitter). Threat actors share links or instructions that trick users into triggering a download process (sometimes using methods like ClickFix). This also leads to HijackLoader being executed, which then delivers SnappyClient.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Users should be careful with unexpected emails or messages, especially if they come from unknown sources, and should not open attachments or click links unless they are sure they are safe. It is also important to regularly scan the system using trusted security software.

Users should only download software and files from official websites or trusted app stores. Suspicious ads, pop-ups, and unfamiliar links (especially on untrustworthy websites) should be avoided, and any requests to allow notifications from such sites should always be rejected. In addition, users should keep the operating system and all applications up to date.

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

A full device format can completely get rid of malware, but it will also delete all stored files. Before taking this step, it is usually safer to try cleaning the system with a reputable tool such as Combo Cleaner.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware may enable cybercriminals to access a system remotely, remove or corrupt essential files, deploy additional payloads, and extract sensitive information. This can lead to problems such as data loss, account takeover, financial fraud, identity theft, and additional malware infections.

What is the purpose of SnappyClient?

The purpose of SnappyClient is to give cybercriminals remote control over an infected computer in order to spy on the user, steal sensitive data, and manipulate the system. It is used for information theft (such as passwords, files, and personal data), system monitoring, and executing malicious actions while staying hidden from the victim.

How did SnappyClient infiltrate my device?

SnappyClient spreads through fake websites and social media scams. Those websites can automatically download a malicious file (HijackLoader), which installs SnappyClient if opened. It can also spread through social media posts that trick users into clicking links or following instructions (ClickFix technique), leading to the same malware being downloaded and executed.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner is effective against most malware, but certain advanced infections may be more difficult to detect. A full system scan is therefore important to thoroughly check the device and remove any hidden threats.