vidar.exe

What is vidar.exe?

vidar.exe is the executable component used by Vidar Information-Stealer malware. It acts as the loader and data-collection module, initiating credential theft, browser data exfiltration, and network communication to command-and-control servers. This document explains its behavior and removal strategies.

Vidar uses a modular, binary-based architecture to harvest credentials, cookies, crypto wallets, and clipboard data from widely used apps. It then exfiltrates data to remote servers, often disguising as legitimate software to avoid easy detection.

Types of Vidar Processes

• Main Loader: Initial dropper and loader that starts the malware
• Credential Grabber: Steals saved logins from browsers and other apps
• Browser Data Collector: Extracts cookies, history, and form data
• Wallet/Token Stealer: Exfiltrates crypto wallet data and tokens
• Clipboard & Data Messenger: Monitors clipboard data and local file exports
• Exfiltration Module: Packages and sends data to C2 servers

Is vidar.exe Safe?

No, vidar.exe is not safe - Vidar is a known malware family designed to steal credentials and data. Only legitimate software from trusted vendors should run on your system.

Is vidar.exe a Virus or Malware?

The real vidar.exe is malware designed to steal data and evade detection.

How to Tell if vidar.exe is Legitimate or Malware

1. File Location: Check for vidar.exe in C:\Users\\AppData\Local\Temp or C:\ProgramData\Vidar\vidar.exe. Non-standard locations are red flags.
2. Digital Signature: Right-click vidar.exe -> Properties -> Digital Signatures. Legitimate software from vendors will show a valid signature; Vidar often lacks a valid signature or uses spoofed data.
3. Resource Usage: Unusually high CPU or memory usage, especially when idle, is a suspicious indicator for malware activity.
4. Behavior: Unexpected network connections to unfamiliar domains or rapid data exfiltration indicate malicious behavior.

Why Is vidar.exe Running on My PC?

Vidar.exe runs as part of an active infection and data-theft workflow. It may start automatically, gather credentials, and communicate with attackers' infrastructure to exfiltrate data.

Reasons it's running:

• Active Infection: The malware is present on the system and actively stealing data.
• Data Exfiltration Modules: Modules run in the background to harvest credentials and files for transmission.
• Startup Persistence: Infected systems may launch vidar.exe at startup to ensure continued data collection.
• Background Network Communications: Malware maintains covert channels to command-and-control servers.
• Malicious Plugins/Loaders: Additional components load to extend data types collected and to evade detection.

Can I Disable or Remove vidar.exe?

Yes, you should disable and remove Vidar malware. Remove all related components using reputable security tools and safe-mode remediation.

How to Stop vidar.exe

• End Processes: Open Task Manager (Ctrl+Shift+Esc) and end vidar.exe and related processes
• Disable Startup: Open Task Manager -> Startup tab -> Disable Vidar-related entries
• Run Full Malware Scan: Scan with Windows Defender or a reputable anti-malware tool in Safe Mode
• Remove Detected Items: Follow the security tool prompts to quarantine or remove Vidar components
• Reset Credentials: Change passwords and enable 2FA on critical accounts

How to Remove Vidar Malware

• ✔ Run a full system scan with Windows Defender or a reputable anti-malware tool
• ✔ Boot into Safe Mode and re-scan, removing all detected Vidar components
• ✔ Delete leftover files in AppData and ProgramData (e.g., vidar-related folders)
• ✔ Check and clean startup entries and scheduled tasks for Vidar components
• ✔ Reset passwords and monitor accounts for suspicious activity

Common Problems: High CPU or Memory Usage

If vidar.exe is consuming resources:

Common Causes & Solutions

• Active data-collection modules: Run a malware scan and terminate non-essential modules; reduce data collection by removing related components
• Background network exfiltration: Block outbound connections via firewall rules and isolate the PC from networks if needed
• Persistence mechanisms: Identify and disable startup tasks; remove registry entries and scheduled tasks related to Vidar
• Malicious browser data theft: Reset browsers, clear credentials in the browser, and change all related passwords
• Unknown or suspicious processes: Use a malware removal tool to terminate processes and analyze with threat-hunting tools
• Outdated security controls: Update antivirus definitions and apply OS security patches; enable Defender's Cloud-delivered protection

Related Processes