How to remove DarkCloud Stealer

What is DarkCloud Stealer

DarkCloud Stealer is a sophisticated piece of malware classified as an information stealer, designed to covertly extract sensitive data from infected Windows systems. It typically infiltrates computers through malspam campaigns that distribute malicious archives—such as RAR, TAR, or 7Z files—often containing obfuscated JavaScript or Windows Script Files to trigger the infection chain. Once executed, DarkCloud employs advanced evasion tactics like heavy code obfuscation, process hollowing, and the use of .NET application protectors such as ConfuserEx, making detection and analysis difficult for security solutions. This stealer primarily targets valuable information including browser credentials, email logins, VPN details, FTP credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, and personal files by scanning specific directories and searching for sensitive data. Infections by DarkCloud can result in severe consequences, such as significant privacy breaches, financial loss, and identity theft, since stolen data is frequently sold or misused by cybercriminals. Security researchers have observed the malware leveraging techniques like AutoIt scripting and code encryption to bypass security controls and hinder removal. As with many modern stealers, DarkCloud’s distribution techniques and capabilities are continuously evolving to stay ahead of defensive measures. To avoid falling victim, users should remain cautious with email attachments, avoid downloading pirated or cracked software, and always keep reputable antivirus software updated.

How DarkCloud Stealer infected your system

DarkCloud Stealer is a sophisticated piece of malware that primarily infiltrates computers through cleverly crafted malspam campaigns. These malicious emails often contain infected attachments packaged in various archive formats such as RAR, TAR, or 7Z. Once opened, the RAR and TAR files typically release a JavaScript file, while the 7Z archive contains a Windows Script File (WSF). These scripts execute a PowerShell command that downloads and initiates the DarkCloud executable, embedding it deep within the system under a randomized filename. The malware employs advanced obfuscation techniques, including the use of ConfuserEx for .NET protection and process hollowing, to evade detection and analysis. Unsuspecting users who fall prey to these deceptive emails find their devices compromised, leading to the theft of sensitive information such as passwords and financial data.

1. Download DarkCloud Stealer Removal Tool
2. Use Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool to remove DarkCloud Stealer
3. Use Autoruns to remove DarkCloud Stealer
4. Files, folders and registry keys of DarkCloud Stealer
5. Other aliases of DarkCloud Stealer
6. How to protect from threats, like DarkCloud Stealer

Remove DarkCloud Stealer manually

Manual removal of DarkCloud Stealer by inexperienced users may become a difficult task because it does not create entries in Add/Remove Programs under Control Panel, does not install browser extensions, and uses random file names. However, there are pre-installed instruments in the Windows system, that allow you to detect and remove malware without using third-party applications. One of them is Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool. It comes with Windows Update in Windows 11, 10, 8. 8.1. For older operating system you can download it here: 64-bit version | 32-bit version.

Remove DarkCloud Stealer using Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool

1. Type mrt in the search box near Start Menu.
2. Run mrt clicking on found item.
3. Click Next button.
4. Choose one of the scan modes Quick scan, Full scan, Customize scan (Full scan recommended).
5. Click Next button.
6. Click on View detailed results of the scan link to view the scan details.
7. Click Finish button.

Remove DarkCloud Stealer using Autoruns

DarkCloud Stealer often sets up to run at Windows startup as an Autorun entry or Scheduled task.

1. Download Autoruns using this link.
2. Extract the archive and run Autoruns.exe file.
3. In Options menu make sure there are checkboxes near Hide Empty Locations, Hide Microsoft Entries, and Hide Windows Entries.
4. Search for suspicious entries with weird names or running from locations like: C:\{username}\AppData\Roaming.
5. Right-click on suspicious entry and choose Delete. This will prevent the threat to run at startup.
6. Switch to Scheduled Tasks tab and do the same.
7. To remove files themselves, click on suspicious entries and choose Jump to Entry…. Remove files or registry keys found.

Remove files, folder and registry keys of DarkCloud Stealer

DarkCloud Stealer files and folders


{randomname}.exe


DarkCloud Stealer registry keys


no information


Aliases of DarkCloud Stealer

How to protect from threats, like DarkCloud Stealer, in future

Standard Windows protection or any decent third-party antivirus (Norton, Avast, Kaspersky) should be able to detect and remove DarkCloud Stealer. However, if you got infected with DarkCloud Stealer with existing and updated security software, you may consider changing it. To feel safe and protect your PC from DarkCloud Stealer on all levels (browser, e-mail attachments, Word or Excel scripts, file system) we recommend a leading provider of internet security solutions – BitDefender. Its solutions both for home and business users proved to be one of the most advanced and effective. Choose and get your BitDefender protection via the button below:

Download BitDefender