VulkanRT. Exploited name by viruses. 2021 update

What is VulkanRT?

VulkanRT is a legitimate 3D graphics API software that is mistaken for malware

VulkanRT is a 3D graphics API (Application Programming Interface) created by Khronos Group. It is a successor to OpenGL and works similarly to DirectX. Most of Windows users can notice the program installed to C:\Program Files (x86)\VulkanRT. The main purpose of the app is to utilize CPU and GPU capabilities and give more control to users. It typically gets installed with other programs (especially video games) or drivers, and it might seem like the application appeared out of nowhere.

Vulkan Runtime Libraries allows effective multi-threading in the CPU, as well as helps the video card to render graphics more efficiently, resulting in better and faster overall performance. It is also compatible with multiple OS systems, including Windows, Linux, iOS, Android, etc.

Due to its mysterious appearance on the machine, many users mistakenly take it for the virus. Therefore, multiple questions arise on the internet, whether it is a malicious app. The answer is – most likely no. If it is genuine (i. e. installed by legitimate graphics card manufacturers or similar), this API is extremely useful, especially for those using graphics-intensive tasks, such as computer gaming or HD video editing. Therefore, there is no need to remove this program.

In some cases, certain games even require the Vulkan Runtime Libraries to be playable – thus, it can be installed together with games. If you bought a new graphics card, it is highly likely that GPU drivers will include this application as well. Nevertheless, AMD or Nvidia drivers are the most likely cause of the app's appearance on your PC.

Some users call this application VulcanRT. There are two reasons for it: either they misspell the name or a virus using a similar name is injected into their device. Therefore, if you found an application on your computer that is called VulcanRT or vulcanrt.exe running in your task manager, perform a full system scan using reputable anti-malware software. There is a high chance that the file is malicious and is trying to hide under a legitimate-looking name.

Unfortunately, some malware^[1] can mimic legitimate files, duplicate or even replace them. Therefore, there is still a chance that Vulkan Runtime Libraries might be a virus. Check if your machine is showing the following signs and symptoms:

• Computer software randomly crashes or freezes;
• PC crashes or freezes;
• Frequent BSODs;^[2]
• Slow overall performance;
• High CPU/GPU usage, even when the machine is not heavily used;
• Error messages pop out of nowhere;
• The Increased amount of advertisement;
• The install directory is not C:\Program Files (x86)

In case it is malware, some or none of these symptoms might occur. The problem is that viruses like Trojan horses might sit silently for months before the presence is detected, as they barely emit any signs. Therefore, we highly recommend scanning your machine with Malwarebytes or SpyHunter 5Combo Cleaner from time to time. If security software detects malware, you would have to perform the threat removal ASAP.

If you mistakenly uninstalled the program, you can redownload it from official websites, such as Nvidia one. There are also many suspicious sites that offer it. However, we advise users to stay away from them, as downloaded software might be malicious, or money may be asked for it, while it is actually free software.

The app is categorized as a browser hijacker which can deliver potentially dangerous ads during browsing sessions.

Distribution of legitimate and malicious software

Even if the software is legitimate, it can appear on the machine without you noticing. Nevertheless, as we already explained, it is a useful application that is capable of helping your GPU rendering graphics better and utilizing its functionality in general. Therefore, manufacturers of major graphics cards inject the intruder directly into users' machines. Thus, if you noticed this program, do not worry – it is legitimate software.

However, if malware is hiding behind a genuine name, it is a different story. These malicious applications can sneak in various ways, including:

• Spam emails;
• Unpatched software or operating system;
• Fake updates, malicious ads, and redirects;
• Malicious websites;
• Poorly protected RDP, etc.

Thus, it is vital to stay wary when browsing the internet. Do not carelessly open suspicious emails, refrain from visiting questionable domains, create strong passwords and install certified anti-malware programs, running computer scans regularly.

VulkanRT should be removed if it is malware in disguise

If you saw the program on your machine which is operating normally without stuttering or freezing – ignore it and continue the normal operation of the PC.

However, if your computer is experiencing trouble, make sure you scan your machine with security software and remove the VulkanRT virus immediately. Be aware that malware can block the operation of security software. Thus, we recommend booting your computer in Safe Mode with Networking as explained below.

Security researchers^[3] do not recommend manual VulcanRT removal. Trojan horses are complicated and extremely hard to eliminate (they modify a bunch of settings on the system which are quite difficult to detect, especially for regular computer users).