Is it a Virus?
✔ YES - Malware
Azorult is widely detected as information-stealer malware
Impact
Credential and data theft
Monitors browsers, wallets, and messaging apps; exfiltrates data
Can I Remove?
✔ YES - with removal
Use reputable anti-malware tools and manual cleanup after disconnecting from network
What is azorult.exe?
azorult.exe is the main executable used by the Azorult information-stealer malware. It targets multiple data sources on an infected host, including web browsers, email clients, wallet software, and FTP clients, to harvest credentials, cookies, chat histories, and cryptocurrency wallets before exfiltrating them to remote servers controlled by the attacker.
This module enumerates installed browser data stores, mail clients, and wallet databases, dumps credentials and tokens, then exfiltrates the data via HTTP/S to the command-and-control server. It often uses obfuscation and persistence techniques to avoid detection.
Quick Fact: Azorult has been observed since 2010 as a versatile information stealer capable of extracting data from a wide range of applications.
Types of Azorult Components
- Loader/Dropper: Initial binary that installs or downloads the Azorult payload
- Information-Stealer Module: Credential, cookie, and data collection from browsers and apps
- Keylogger/Clipboard: Monitors keystrokes and clipboard contents for data leakage
- Exfiltration/C2: Sends collected data to attacker C2 and fetches updates
- Persistence/Startup: Maintains presence via startup tasks or registry entries
- Downloader/Secondary Payload: Downloads additional modules or malware components
Is azorult.exe Safe?
No, azorult.exe is not safe It is malware and should be treated as a security incident.
Is azorult.exe a Virus or Malware?
The real azorult.exe is malware. However, benign-looking files can sometimes masquerade as azorult; verify with signatures and location.
How to Tell if azorult.exe is Legitimate or Malware
- File Location: Must be in
C:\Users\Public\AppData\Local\Temp\azorult.exe or suspicious paths. Any azorult.exe outside trusted folders is suspect.
- Digital Signature: Right-click the file in Explorer -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Should not show a trusted publisher; if none or Unknown, malign.
- Resource Usage: Unusually high CPU/memory when idle is suspicious; azorult typically runs with minimal background CPU unless actively exfiltrating.
- Behavior: If you did not install this software and it runs at startup or exfiltrates data, it is likely malware.
Red Flags: Unrecognized location such as C:\Users\Public\AppData\Local\Temp\azorult.exe, no signature, persistence in Startup folders, or outbound network traffic to unknown hosts are red flags.
Why Is azorult.exe Running on My PC?
Azorult runs after infection to steal credentials and exfiltrate data. It may also persist and beacon to C2, even when you are not actively using the machine.
Reasons it's running:
- Active Infection: Infection launches azorult to begin data collection as soon as possible.
- Persistence Mechanisms: Startup entries or scheduled tasks keep azorult running after reboot.
- Background Data Collection: Monitors browsers, wallets, and messaging apps for credentials and data.
- C2 Communication: Exfiltrates data to attacker-controlled servers, often using encrypted channels.
- Modular Payload: Downloads additional modules or config updates to extend theft capabilities.
Can I Disable or Remove azorult.exe?
Yes, you should remove azorult.exe. Disable persistence and remove the malware to stop data theft and further compromise.
How to Stop azorult.exe
- End Individual Processes (if present): Use Task Manager to end azorult-related processes and suspicious subprocesses
- Disconnect from Network: Disable network access to halt data exfiltration while cleaning
- Remove Startup: Check Startup locations in Task Manager and remove azorult or related links
- Run Anti-malware: Use reputable antivirus/anti-malware tools to quarantine and remove the payload
- Reset or Reinstall: If infection persists, consider a clean OS reinstall and restore data from backups
How to Remove Azorult Infection
- ✔ Run a full system scan with reputable anti-malware software and remove detected items
- ✔ Use system restore or OS reinstall if rootkit is suspected
- ✔ Change all passwords from a trusted device after cleaning
Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage
If azorult.exe is causing performance issues or suspect data theft:
Common Causes & Solutions
- Active data exfiltration: Monitor outgoing traffic with a firewall; pause syncing services while cleaning
- Persistence mechanisms: Remove startup entries and scheduled tasks; use autoruns to identify and disable
- Malicious extensions: Disable or remove suspicious browser extensions that may be linked to Azorult activity
- Offline malware dropper: Isolate the infected machine and perform offline scanning with a clean boot
- Credential harvesting: Change passwords from a safe device; enable 2FA for sensitive accounts
- Outdated security: Update OS and security software; ensure Windows Defender or AV is current
Quick Fixes:
1. Terminate azorult.exe and related processes in Task Manager
2. Disable network sharing and block C2 domains via firewall
3. Run a full system scan with reputable anti-malware
4. Remove Startup entries (Task Manager -> Startup)
5. Reset browser data and passwords after cleaning on a trusted device
Frequently Asked Questions
Is azorult.exe a virus?
Yes. Azorult.exe is a known malware family that steals credentials and sensitive data from browsers, wallets, and messaging apps. Remove it with trusted security tools.
What does Azorult.exe do?
Azorult extracts credentials, cookies, and data from browsers and wallets, and exfiltrates them to a remote server controlled by attackers.
How do I remove Azorult from Windows?
Run a full system scan with reputable anti-malware, remove detected components, clear startup entries, and reset passwords. If needed, perform OS reinstall from a trusted source.
Can Azorult be stopped without reinstalling?
Yes, if detected early you can stop processes, remove persistence, and clean system with security software. If rootkits are present, a more thorough approach may be required.
How can I protect myself from Azorult?
Keep OS and apps updated, avoid downloading from untrusted sources, use multi-factor authentication, disable macros, and install reputable security software with real-time protection.
Why does azorult.exe run at startup?
Malware often configures persistence to survive reboots so it can continue stealing data. Remove startup entries and ensure system integrity after cleaning.