Rootkit.TDSS – malware that deeply infects Windows system files to operate
Rootkit.TDSS, TDL3, or Alureon [Microsoft] is a malicious program designed to hide the existence of any process on the infected machine in order to perform malicious and dangerous actions.
The main purpose of the rootkit is to intercept user web traffic and steal sensitive data such as credit card details, banking credentials, logins, social security numbers, and much more.
The virus may also replace essential system executable files, which may then be used to hide processes and files installed by the attackers. It can also cause several Blue Screen of death crashes when operational.
| Name | Rootkit.TDSS |
|---|---|
| Type | Rootkit, bootkit |
| First detection | 2007 |
| Function | Intercepts user traffic and collects a variety of personally-identifiable and sensitive information |
| Removal | The virus might be very difficult to remove due to its extensive persistence mechanisms. Use robust anti-malware tools to get rid of it in Safe Mode if required |
| System fix | If you noticed that Windows is crashing, works much slower, programs fail to launch, or you face other stability issues, use FortectIntego to fix malware-caused damage automatically |
Rootkit.TDSS is installed without the user's permission through the use of trojan viruses, whereas Trojan virus can download and install additional malware, adware, or even rogue anti-spyware applications. Therefore, it is important to protect your machine with security software that can repel such attacks – we recommend using SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or MalwarebytesMalwarebytes.
This virus may also infect the MBR sector, which is executed prior to Windows boot. The removal of malware can be complicated, but it is essential.
When your computer is infected with a TDSS rootkit, you may encounter the following symptoms:
- Google (Bing, Yahoo) search result links will be redirected to various misleading sites that promote rogue products or display bogus advertisements.
- Security related websites will be blocked.
- Frequent BSOD errors
- You won't be able to launch legitimate anti-malware or anti-virus applications.
- You may find that web pages load slower.
It goes without saying that you should not tolerate the presence of this threat on your Windows machine. Keep in mind that it can record very private personal data, eventually providing access to your online banking or other personal accounts.
It would not be surprising that you would lose money at any time, become a victim of future phishing campaigns, or even suffer from identity theft. Therefore, follow the detailed instructions we provide below in order to remove all the malicious files and components of this rootkit.
Virus removal instructions
Please use TDSS virus remover and remove it as soon as possible after detection. First of all, download TDSSKiller.
This tool was created to remove rootkits that belong to numerous hard-to-remove malware families. Run the program and press the Start scan button for the utility to start the scan process. The scan won't take long – only a few minutes.
After the scan, it will list malicious files. Suspicious objects should be skipped, and malicious, high-risk objects should be deleted. After clicking Next, the utility applies selected actions and outputs the result. Select the correct option and click Continue.
A reboot might require after disinfection, so just click Reboot. Now, your computer should be TDSS rootkit free. Note that additional malware could be hiding on your PC. If for some reason, you are unable to use the provided scanner, you should access Safe Mode with Networking and perform a full system scan.
Additionally, scanning the device with SpyHunterCombo Cleaner or another reputable security software can help ensure that no malicious components are left on your machine. Don't forget to clean your web browsers and fix registries – you can use FortectIntego for the job.
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