How to remove CloudZ RAT from infected devices

What kind of malware is CloudZ?

CloudZ is a remote access Trojan (RAT). It uses a custom plugin to steal credentials and potentially capture one-time passwords (OTPs). CloudZ also avoids detection by running malicious functions in system memory and checking for debuggers and sandbox environments. The RAT should be removed from infected devices as soon as possible.

More about CloudZ

When executed, CloudZ connects to its C2 (command and control) server. It can steal saved login details from the browser and download extra tools (plugins) to expand its capabilities. Cybercriminals were observed using the Windows Phone Link application, which connects a smartphone to a computer and syncs data like SMS messages and notifications.

They use the CloudZ RAT and its plugin (known as Pheno) to monitor this PC-to-phone connection and access the app's data. This allows them to steal one-time passwords in SMS and authentication notifications.

The RAT is also capable of testing if the system behaves like a test environment (a virtual machine) and looking for security tools that analyze malware. If it is being monitored, it simply stops running, so it does not get detected.

In addition to the aforementioned capabilities, CloudZ can collect system information like operating system version, hardware details, and architecture. It can also take screenshots, run shell commands, manage files, download or delete data, and send messages or errors to the operators. Overall, CloudZ can lead to account takeovers, financial loss, data theft, and serious privacy breaches.

Conclusion

In conclusion, CloudZ gives attackers remote control over an infected system. It is designed to steal sensitive information, including login credentials, browser data, and one-time passwords. By hiding its activity and evading detection tools, it can operate quietly and cause serious issues, including data loss, privacy breaches, and account compromise.

Here are examples of other RATs: EtherRAT, MIMICRAT, and PhantomPulse.

How did CloudZ infiltrate my computer?

CloudZ is mainly distributed through a fake ScreenConnect application update. Threat actors trick users into running a malicious update file that looks legitimate. Once executed, this fake update installs a .NET loader, which then deploys the CloudZ RAT.

It is worth noting that threat actors may also use malicious ads, fake websites, fraudulent emails, software vulnerabilities, technical support scams, and similar methods to distribute CloudZ.

How to avoid installation of malware?

Users should not click on pop-ups, ads, buttons, links, or other content that appears on untrustworthy websites. They should also refuse any requests for browser notifications from suspicious pages. Unexpected emails from unknown senders should also be treated carefully, especially if they contain links or attachments.

It is also important to download apps and files from reliable sources like official app stores or trusted developer websites. Pirated software, key generators, and other illegal tools should be avoided. Users should keep their operating system and applications up to date and use reputable antivirus software to scan their devices.

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

A complete system reset is not always required. Malware such as CloudZ RAT can often be removed with trusted antivirus or anti-malware programs like Combo Cleaner, which are designed to detect and clean malicious files from the device.

What are the biggest issues that malware can cause?

Malware can cause severe problems, including stolen login details, leaked personal data, and financial losses. It may also lead to the execution of more harmful malware on the device. In some cases, infections can result in permanent loss of important files and information.

What is the purpose of CloudZ RAT?

The purpose of CloudZ RAT is to give attackers remote control over an infected device. It is mainly used to collect data like login credentials, browser information, and one-time passwords (OTPs). It also allows attackers to run commands, take screenshots, manage files, and perform other malicious actions.

How did CloudZ malware infiltrate my computer?

CloudZ is typically spread through a fake update for the ScreenConnect application. Threat actors deceive users into opening a malicious file that appears to be an update. After it is launched, the fake update installs a .NET loader, which then injects the CloudZ RAT.

Will Combo Cleaner protect me from malware?

Combo Cleaner is able to detect and remove malware from an infected device. However, more advanced threats can sometimes hide deeper in the system. For this reason, running a full system scan is recommended.