Info-stealer malware is increasingly targeting crypto users due to its potential for sensitive data.

Raccoon Stealer is one of the most notorious malware types, capable of stealing sensitive information such as digital wallets, login credentials, and even personal data, posing a serious threat to the security of users’ digital assets.

To learn more about Raccoon Stealer, read the full explanation below.

What is Raccoon Stealer?

Raccoon Stealer is a type of info-stealer malware that first appeared at least in 2019 and was sold as a “malware-as-a-service” service on darknet forums.

This malware experienced two periods of activity, the first from 2019 to March 2022, and then returned with an updated version in June 2022.

Technically, Raccoon Stealer—also known as “Mohazo” or “Racealer”—is a simple malware typically spread through Fallout and RIG exploit kits.

While not considered sophisticated malware, Raccoon has proven effective, with estimates of hundreds of thousands of devices infected worldwide. In 2019, it was among the 10 most talked about malware in the underground community.

Raccoon is written in the C++ programming language and is compatible with both 32-bit and 64-bit operating systems.

Initially, many antivirus programs classified it solely as a password stealer, but Raccoon actually has broader capabilities as an information stealer.

This malware searches for various sensitive data on the system, stores it, and sends it to its operators.

The collected data includes credit card information, crypto wallets, passwords, emails, data from all popular browsers, including credentials and cookies, and system information.

In practice, Raccoon Stealer targets data stored in users’ browsers and crypto wallets. In browsers, stolen data typically includes cookies, saved login details, and credit card information.

Meanwhile, in crypto wallets, targeted data includes public keys, private keys, and seed phrases.

Once this data is in the hands of cybercriminals, it can be misused for identity theft, cryptocurrency theft, and credit card fraud.

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Raccoon Stealer v2 Development

Raccoon Stealer v2 is the latest version of the info-stealer malware after the Raccoon development team shut down the initial version in March 2022.

The shutdown followed the arrest of one of its operators and the dismantling of its infrastructure by the FBI, along with law enforcement partners in Italy and the Netherlands.

This new version is designed to be more efficient and able to evade antivirus detection, enhancing the malware’s ability to steal data silently.

Raccoon Stealer v2 is typically distributed through methods that exploit user vulnerability, such as phishing, fake ads, or downloading pirated or free software from SEO-promoted sites.

Once the victim accesses the malicious file, the malware begins stealing sensitive information from the system, including login credentials, credit card data, browser autofill, and crypto wallets.

Since its release in May 2022, Raccoon Stealer v2 has become popular among cybercriminals. Despite some minor changes to its operation, the general pattern of Raccoon Stealer v2 network activity remains the same.

This makes this version still a real threat to users who are not careful when downloading software or clicking on suspicious links.

Why is Raccoon Stealer Dangerous for Crypto Traders?

Raccoon Stealer poses a serious risk to crypto traders due to its ability to steal sensitive information that can be directly exploited to access and drain digital assets. Some of its main threats are as follows:

1. Can steal wallet private keys and seed phrases

Private keys and seed phrases are the primary keys to accessing crypto wallets. If this information falls into the hands of cybercriminals, they can take full control of the wallet.

The perpetrators can even move or delete the victim’s digital assets without the owner’s knowledge.

2. Can steal exchange account data

Raccoon Stealer also targets login credentials for popular exchange accounts. With this access, the perpetrators can conduct illegal transactions, withdraw funds, or misuse the victim’s digital identity for fraudulent activities.

3. Threats to users who download files indiscriminately

This malware often infiltrates through pirated software, free applications from unofficial websites, or phishing links. Users who aren’t careful when downloading files or clicking links from untrusted sources are at high risk of becoming victims of infection.

Read more here: Spear Phishing Can Wipe Out Assets, Traders Must Be Aware!

How Raccoon Stealer Spreads

Raccoon Stealer uses various methods to reach victims and steal sensitive data silently. Here are some of its distribution methods:

1. Phishing Emails

The perpetrator sends fake, official-looking emails to trick users into clicking on links or downloading malicious attachments, allowing the malware to infect their systems.

2. Cracked Files/Pirated Software

Malware is embedded in pirated software or free applications downloaded from unofficial sites, causing users to unknowingly install Raccoon Stealer along with the program.

3. Fake Websites Impersonating Exchange Platforms

Fake websites are created to resemble popular exchange platforms to trick users into entering their login credentials, which are then stolen and misused by the perpetrators.

How to Protect Yourself from Raccoon Stealer

To avoid the Raccoon Stealer threat, crypto users need to implement proper security measures, including the following:

1. Don’t install pirated software

Avoid downloading or installing pirated applications or applications from unofficial sources, as malware is often embedded in these files and can directly infect the system.

2. Enable 2FA on exchanges

Use two-factor authentication on exchange accounts to add an additional layer of security so that even if login credentials are stolen, unauthorized access can still be prevented.

3. Store seed phrases offline, not in your browser

Private keys and seed phrases should be stored offline, such as on a hardware wallet or on paper. Storing them in a browser or on an internet-connected computer increases the risk of theft.

4. Update your antivirus and operating system

Ensure your operating system and antivirus software are always updated to detect and protect against the latest malware, including new variants of Raccoon Stealer.

Conclusion: A Real Threat to Crypto Investors

So, that was an interesting discussion about the Dangers of Raccoon Stealers, a Threat to Crypto Investors, which you can read more about in the INDODAX Academy.

In conclusion, Raccoon Stealers are not just a technical or IT issue, but a real threat to the financial security of crypto investors.

The loss of sensitive data such as private keys, seed phrases, or exchange account credentials can directly result in the loss of digital assets.

Therefore, education about digital security and implementing proper security practices are essential parts of a safe crypto investment strategy.

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FAQ

1.What is Raccoon Stealer?
Raccoon Stealer is a type of info-stealer malware that first appeared in 2019. This malware steals personal data such as passwords, credit card details, browser cookies, and even crypto wallets, then sells it on darknet forums.

2.How does Raccoon Stealer work?
Raccoon Stealer spreads through pirated files, phishing emails, or fake ads. Once installed, the malware immediately collects sensitive data from browsers and applications and sends it to the attacker’s server.

3.Why is Raccoon Stealer dangerous for crypto users?
This malware can steal seed phrases, private keys, and exchange login credentials. Once data is stolen, hackers can immediately drain your wallet or crypto trading account balance.

4.How can you prevent a Raccoon Stealer infection?
Use official software, enable 2FA on your exchange account, store your seed phrases offline, update your antivirus, and avoid clicking on suspicious links or files.

5.Is Raccoon Stealer still active?
Yes. After disappearing in 2021, a new version of Raccoon Stealer v2 reappeared in 2022 with more advanced features, and is still used by hacker groups to steal data.

Author: Boy