Infostealer malware is a type of malicious software that is designed to steal sensitive information from a victim’s computer or mobile device. Infostealers can collect a wide range of sensitive data, including login credentials, financial information, personal identifiable information (PII), and other valuable data that can be used for identity theft or other malicious purposes.
Infostealer malware can take many forms, including Trojans, spyware, or adware. Infostealer Trojans, for example, can masquerade as legitimate software or documents and trick users into installing them. Once installed, the malware can capture keystrokes, take screenshots, or steal saved login credentials from web browsers and other applications.
Infostealer spyware, on the other hand, can be designed to monitor a victim’s online activity and capture sensitive information, such as credit card numbers or social security numbers, and send it to a remote server controlled by the attacker.
Infostealer adware can also be used to collect information from victims. Adware is designed to display unwanted advertisements on a victim’s computer or mobile device. In some cases, the advertisements may contain malicious links or may trick users into downloading malware.
Infostealer malware types
There are many different types of Infostealer malware, each with its own characteristics and methods of stealing information. Some common types of Infostealer malware include:
- Keyloggers are a type of Infostealer malware that record every keystroke made on a victim’s computer or mobile device, including passwords and other sensitive information.
- Credential stealers are a type of Infostealer malware that specifically target login credentials, such as usernames and passwords, from a victim’s web browsers, email clients, or other applications.
- Form grabbers are a type of Infostealer malware that intercept data entered into web forms, such as credit card information or login credentials, before it is encrypted and sent over the internet.
- Clipboard stealers are a type of Infostealer malware that monitor a victim’s clipboard and capture any sensitive information that is copied and pasted, such as passwords or credit card numbers.
- Screen scrapers are a type of Infostealer malware that capture screenshots of a victim’s computer or mobile device, which can be used to steal sensitive information such as login credentials or personal information.
- Banking Trojans are a type of Infostealer malware that specifically target financial institutions and online banking users, stealing login credentials and other sensitive information related to financial accounts.
Keep data safe from infostealer malware
It’s important to have robust security measures in place, such as anti-virus software and firewalls, to prevent Infostealer malware attacks. Additionally, users should be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources and should only enter sensitive information on trusted websites. Regularly monitoring bank and credit card statements for any unauthorized activity can also help detect potential Infostealer attacks.