How to remove malware delivered via ClickFix

What is Hir.harvard.edu ClickFix malware?

Our team has discovered that cybercriminals compromised the official Harvard website (hir.harvard.edu) and injected ClickFix. By exploiting access to a trusted, reputable domain, the attackers were able to host malicious content that appears legitimate, increasing the likelihood that visitors would interact with it.

More about Hir.harvard.edu ClickFix malware

ClickFix is a malware delivery technique that tricks users into infecting their devices. Usually, this method involves displaying fake error messages, CAPTCHA checks, or "fix instructions" designed to trick users into running the provided commands on their devices. These commands infect computers with malware once executed.

On the hijacked Harvard website, cybercriminals aim to deceive visitors into believing that they have to follow the instructions to pass a CAPTCHA (to prove that they are not robots). The page displays instructions telling users to press Win + X, then I (or select PowerShell/Terminal), followed by Ctrl + V, and finally Enter.

When visitors open PowerShell, they see a list of options, such as settings and command-line tools. Once that window is open, the remaining steps are used to paste and run a hidden, malicious command. This sequence tricks users into manually launching the infection process.

ClickFix distribution technique is often used to spread information stealers, remote access Trojans, ransomware, and other threats. Typically, cybercriminals use ClickFix and the deployed malware to encrypt files and extort victims, steal sensitive information (e.g., login credentials or credit card details), take over devices, hijack accounts, etc.

Thus, it is important to recognize ClickFix schemes and never follow the instructions they provide to avoid potential negative outcomes.

Conclusion

ClickFix is a social engineering scam that tricks users into running malicious commands by pretending they are fixing an error or passing a CAPTCHA. In reality, these instructions lead victims to unknowingly execute malware on their devices. Some examples of malware delivered using this technique are SnappyClient, Torg, and GHOSTFORM.

How did Hir.harvard.edu ClickFix malware infiltrate my computer?

Systems become infected through ClickFix when users are tricked into opening PowerShell or Terminal and paste command. That command is already copied to the clipboard by a malicious website. When a user pastes and runs it, the command downloads and executes malware.

Examples of other malware distribution channels are tech support scams, emails containing malicious files or links, pirated software, cracking tools, key generators, malicious advertisements, unofficial websites, and third-party downloaders.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Avoid interacting with ads, pop-ups, or links on websites that are not trustworthy, and never allow such sites to send browser notifications. Make sure your operating system and all applications are regularly updated. It is also important to use reliable security software and run system scans frequently.

Get programs only from official sources or verified app stores, and avoid pirated software, cracks, or unauthorized activation tools. Be cautious with unexpected emails or messages, particularly those that include attachments or links.

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.

The appearance of the hacked hir.harvard.edu site used to deliver ClickFix (GIF):

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

This method removes malware entirely but wipes all data from the device. It is usually better to use a reliable anti-malware tool like Combo Cleaner to see if malware can be eliminated without losing data.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can perform a range of harmful actions, including stealing sensitive information, encrypting files, and installing additional malicious software. This can result in serious consequences such as unauthorized access to accounts or devices, identity theft, financial loss, and even permanent data loss.

How did ClickFix malware infiltrate my computer?

A fake (or compromised) website or message likely showed instructions that led you to open a system tool like PowerShell or Windows Terminal and paste a command. When that command was executed, it downloaded and injected malware.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Yes, Combo Cleaner can identify and eliminate most threats. However, some more sophisticated malware may be deeply embedded in the system, which is why performing a complete system scan is strongly recommended.