How to remove Stealc_v2 Stealer

What is Stealc_v2 Stealer

Stealc_v2 Stealer is a sophisticated piece of malware designed to extract sensitive information from infected systems. As the latest iteration of the Stealc malware family, this version is written in C++ and boasts enhanced anti-detection features through code obfuscation. Its primary function is to harvest data from over twenty different web browsers, targeting browsing histories, cookies, autofill data, and various passwords. Beyond browsers, Stealc_v2 can infiltrate email clients, messaging platforms, VPNs, and even gaming applications to gather credentials and other critical information. With its grabber capabilities, it can also search for and exfiltrate files based on predefined criteria, while its built-in loader allows it to download and execute additional malicious files. This adaptability makes it a potent tool for cybercriminals, capable of causing significant privacy breaches and financial losses. Distributed primarily through phishing tactics and malicious downloads, the presence of Stealc_v2 on a device poses serious security risks, potentially leading to identity theft and further malware infections.

How Stealc_v2 Stealer infected your system

Stealc_v2 Stealer predominantly infiltrates computers through sophisticated social engineering tactics and the exploitation of common user vulnerabilities. Cybercriminals typically distribute this malware via phishing emails that appear deceptively legitimate, containing malicious attachments or links that trigger the download of the stealer when interacted with. Additionally, it can propagate through compromised websites that host drive-by download attacks, where simply visiting the site can result in an infection. The malware is also spread through dubious software downloads, including pirated content and fake software updates that users may unwittingly install. Once on a system, Stealc_v2 leverages its lightweight and obfuscated code to evade detection, embedding itself deeply to access and exfiltrate sensitive information, such as passwords and financial data. To further its reach, the malware may also exploit vulnerabilities in network security, allowing it to spread across local networks and removable storage devices.

1. Download Stealc_v2 Stealer Removal Tool
2. Use Windows Malicious Software Removal Tool to remove Stealc_v2 Stealer
3. Use Autoruns to remove Stealc_v2 Stealer
4. Files, folders and registry keys of Stealc_v2 Stealer
5. Other aliases of Stealc_v2 Stealer
6. How to protect from threats, like Stealc_v2 Stealer

Remove Stealc_v2 Stealer manually

Manual removal of Stealc_v2 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 Stealc_v2 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 Stealc_v2 Stealer using Autoruns

Stealc_v2 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 Stealc_v2 Stealer

Stealc_v2 Stealer files and folders


{randomname}.exe


Stealc_v2 Stealer registry keys


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Aliases of Stealc_v2 Stealer

How to protect from threats, like Stealc_v2 Stealer, in future

Standard Windows protection or any decent third-party antivirus (Norton, Avast, Kaspersky) should be able to detect and remove Stealc_v2 Stealer. However, if you got infected with Stealc_v2 Stealer with existing and updated security software, you may consider changing it. To feel safe and protect your PC from Stealc_v2 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:

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