How to remove Marco from infected devices

What kind of malware is Marco?

Marco is an information stealer that targets browser data, cryptocurrency wallets, and sensitive files stored on infected devices or in cloud services. The malware also gathers system details and uses techniques such as encryption and disabling security tools to avoid detection. It sends stolen data to its servers using encrypted HTTP communication.

More about Marco

Marco ensures that only one copy runs on a system and uses encrypted code to hide its activity. It checks running programs and shuts down security or analysis tools like Process Hacker, OllyDbg, Wireshark or x64dbg to avoid detection. If there is no internet connection, it deletes itself and stops running.

If connected, it collects details like the IP address, hardware ID, installed antivirus software, running processes, and location, and sends this data to its server. Next, Marco steals browser data using two built-in tools. It drops hidden files onto the system, then uses them to access and decrypt sensitive browser information.

This includes saved passwords, cookies, browsing history, and autofill data. It also retrieves encryption keys used by browsers to protect this data. Additionally, it gathers data stored in browser profiles, including information from browsers like Chrome, Firefox, and Pale Moon.

Furthermore, Marco looks for cryptocurrency wallet browser extensions, primarily in Chromium-based browsers such as Chrome. It scans common folders where browser data is saved and gathers wallet files. Also, the stealer collects data from various apps, programs, and online services on the infected device (including files, settings, and other sensitive information).

Additionally, Marco can steal data copied to the clipboard and take screenshots of the victim's screen. The stealer can also access folders and cloud storage locations such as Desktop, Documents, Pictures, Videos, OneDrive, Dropbox, and Google Drive.

Conclusion

Overall, Marco is a stealer designed to collect sensitive information from an infected device. It targets both system data and user activity, including browsers, files, and cryptocurrency wallets. Victims may experience identity theft, financial loss, account hijacking, and other issues. If detected on a device, Marco should be removed immediately.

More examples of information stealers are Torg, VoidStealer, and BoryptGrab.

How did Marco infiltrate my computer?

The infection starts when the victim downloads a ZIP file containing a malicious downloader. When opened, this downloader runs hidden code that decrypts its instructions. It then executes a PowerShell command to download the main malware from an external server.

The ZIP file used to deliver Marco is likely distributed via scam email containing malicious attachments or links, malicious advertisements, cracking tools (or pirated software), deceptive websites, P2P networks, or technical support scams.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Download software and files only from reliable sources, such as official websites or trusted app stores, and avoid using cracked programs, pirated software, or key generators. Keep your operating system and all applications up to date. Be cautious with unexpected emails or messages from unknown senders, especially if they include links or attachments.

Avoid interacting with pop-ups, ads, or prompts on untrusted websites, including allowing notifications from questionable pages. 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 Marco?
• STEP 1. Manual removal of Marco 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 Marco stealer, should I format my storage device to get rid of it?

This method can remove Marco completely, but it will also erase all files and data on the device. It is usually better to try a trusted security tool like Combo Cleaner first before formatting the system.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can steal sensitive information, inject additional malware, damage or delete important files, and perform other malicious actions. It can lead to data loss and unauthorized access to accounts, financial losses, identity theft, and other consequences.

What is the purpose of Marco?

The purpose of Marco is to steal sensitive information from infected systems. It can collect data such as browser information, saved passwords, cryptocurrency wallet details, files, screenshots, and system information.

How did Marco infiltrate my computer?

Infection begins when a victim opens a malicious ZIP file containing a downloader. The ZIP file can be spread through scam emails, fake ads, pirated software, malicious websites, P2P networks, tech support scams, and similar channels.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can detect and remove most known malware infections. However, some advanced threats can hide deep within the system, so running a full system scan is necessary to make sure threats are removed.