Cowboy Stealer

Cowboy Stealer is a powerful information-stealing malware written in the Go programming language. Cybercriminals use this malware to harvest sensitive data, including login credentials, financial details, and cryptocurrency wallet information. The malware is specifically designed to extract stored passwords, private keys, and authentication details, allowing attackers to compromise personal and financial accounts.

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Cowboy Stealer Threat Summary

The table below summarizes the key details about the Cowboy Stealer malware:

Attribute	Details
Name	Cowboy Stealer
Threat Type	Information Stealer
Detection Names	Avast (FileRepMalware [Misc]), Bkav Pro (W64.AIDetectMalware), ESET-NOD32 (WinGo/PSW.Agent.IM), Kaspersky (VHO:Trojan-PSW.MSIL.Agent.gen), Microsoft (Trojan:Win32/Phonzy.A!ml)
Symptoms of Infection	No obvious symptoms; users may notice unauthorized transactions, account takeovers, missing cryptocurrency funds, or other security breaches.
Damage	Theft of credentials, financial loss, identity theft, stolen cryptocurrency wallets, hijacked accounts.
Distribution Methods	Malicious email attachments, phishing websites, tech support scams, software cracks, drive-by downloads, malicious ads.
Danger Level	High – Potential for financial loss and identity theft.

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How Cowboy Stealer Operates

Cowboy Stealer is designed to infiltrate systems stealthily and extract valuable data. It primarily targets cryptocurrency wallets but also steals a wide range of other information. Below are the key functions of this malware:

• Stealing Cryptocurrency Wallet Data: The primary function of Cowboy Stealer is to extract stored credentials, private keys, and authentication details from cryptocurrency wallets. Once attackers gain access to these wallets, they can transfer funds to their own accounts.
• Capturing Screenshots: The malware can take screenshots from infected devices, allowing cybercriminals to access private messages, authentication codes, banking details, and sensitive files.
• Extracting Data from Web Browsers and Applications: Cowboy Stealer may also steal saved login credentials, browsing history, autofill data, and cookies from web browsers. This enables attackers to hijack accounts, impersonate victims, and perform fraudulent transactions.
• Clipboard Hijacking: The malware monitors the system clipboard, meaning it can steal copied cryptocurrency wallet addresses, passwords, credit card numbers, and other sensitive data.
• Keylogging Capabilities: Some versions of Cowboy Stealer come equipped with keylogging functionality, which records every keystroke on an infected device. This feature enables cybercriminals to steal passwords, authentication codes, and other private data.

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Distribution Methods

Cowboy Stealer is commonly spread through various deceptive techniques, including:

1. Malicious Email Attachments – The malware often spreads through phishing emails with harmful attachments or links. Cybercriminals disguise these emails as legitimate communications from financial institutions, companies, or government agencies.
2. Fake Software Cracks and Keygens – Users looking for free software activators may unknowingly download Cowboy Stealer, as it is often hidden in cracked software or key generators.
3. Tech Support Scams – Some cybercriminals use fake tech support pop-ups to convince users to download malicious files, which install Cowboy Stealer in the background.
4. Malicious Advertisements – Clicking on deceptive online ads may lead to the automatic download of Cowboy Stealer onto the victim’s system.
5. Drive-By Downloads – Visiting compromised websites can lead to automatic malware downloads without user consent.

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How to Remove Cowboy Stealer

Removing Cowboy Stealer manually can be difficult, as it operates in stealth mode. The safest way to eliminate this malware is by using SpyHunter, an advanced anti-malware tool that detects and removes sophisticated threats. Follow the step-by-step guide below:

Step 1: Boot into Safe Mode with Networking

1. Restart your computer and press F8 (or Shift + F8) before Windows loads.
2. Select Safe Mode with Networking and press Enter.
3. Once your system boots up, proceed with the removal process.

Step 2: Download and Install SpyHunter

1. Download the latest version of SpyHunter.
2. Run the installer and follow the on-screen instructions to install the program.

Step 3: Perform a Full System Scan

1. Launch SpyHunter and click on Start Scan.
2. Wait for the scan to complete; it will detect Cowboy Stealer and other potential threats.
3. Click Fix Threats to remove all detected malware.

Step 4: Delete Temporary Files

1. Press Win + R, type temp, and hit Enter.
2. Delete all files in the folder.
3. Repeat the process with %temp% and prefetch.

Step 5: Reset Web Browsers

If Cowboy Stealer has compromised your web browsers, reset them:

• Google Chrome: Go to chrome://settings/reset → Click Restore settings to their original defaults.
• Mozilla Firefox: Go to about:support → Click Refresh Firefox.
• Microsoft Edge: Go to edge://settings/reset → Click Restore settings to their default values.

Step 6: Restart Your PC

Restart your computer normally and check for any unusual activity. If everything runs smoothly, Cowboy Stealer has been successfully removed.

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Prevention Tips: How to Stay Protected

To avoid infections like Cowboy Stealer, follow these cybersecurity best practices:

Avoid Clicking on Suspicious Links

• Do not open email attachments from unknown senders.
• Be cautious when clicking links in emails, even if they appear legitimate.

Use Strong and Unique Passwords

• Enable two-factor authentication (2FA) on sensitive accounts.
• Use a password manager to generate and store strong passwords.

Keep Software and OS Updated

• Install security updates and patches regularly.
• Update antivirus and anti-malware tools frequently.

Download Software from Trusted Sources

• Avoid pirated software, as they often contain malware.
• Always download applications from official websites.

Enable a Firewall and Use Security Software

• Use SpyHunter to protect against cyber threats.
• Enable Windows Defender or a third-party firewall.

Monitor Your Cryptocurrency Accounts

• Regularly check for unauthorized transactions.
• Store private keys in offline wallets for added security.

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Final Thoughts

Cowboy Stealer is a dangerous information-stealing malware that can cause serious financial and security risks. It is particularly effective at targeting cryptocurrency wallets and sensitive login credentials. If your system is infected, it is crucial to remove it immediately using SpyHunter to prevent further damage. By following strong security practices, you can significantly reduce the risk of infection and protect your digital assets from cybercriminals.