Deskbar

By CagedTech in Adware
Published:
Last updated:

Threat Scorecard

Threat Level: 20 % (Normal)
Infected Computers: 22
First Seen: July 24, 2009
Last Seen: August 7, 2022
OS(es) Affected: Windows

The detection of Deskbar on your system indicates a potential security threat that requires immediate attention. This report provides an overview of the threat, its operating methods, symptoms of infection, and step-by-step guidance on how to remove it from your computer.

What Is Deskbar?

Deskbar is identified as a Trojan-type threat, which is a broad category of malware designed to deceive users about its true intent. Trojans can be used for a variety of malicious purposes, including stealing sensitive information, disrupting system operation, or providing unauthorized access to the infected computer. The name "Deskbar" does not directly indicate a specific malware family, but its classification as a Trojan suggests it could be part of a larger group of threats designed to infiltrate systems without being detected.

How Deskbar Operates

Trojan-type threats like Deskbar typically operate by disguising themselves as legitimate software or files. Once executed, they can install additional malware, modify system settings, or create backdoors for remote access. These operations can be triggered by user interaction, such as opening a malicious email attachment or downloading software from untrusted sources. The specific mechanisms used by Deskbar are not detailed in this report due to the lack of sandbox telemetry, but common behaviors among Trojans include data theft, system compromise, and the distribution of additional malware.

Symptoms of Infection

Symptoms of a Deskbar infection can vary widely depending on its intended purpose and the extent of the compromise. Common indicators of a Trojan infection include unexpected system crashes, slow performance, unfamiliar programs or icons, and unusual network activity. Users may also notice changes in their browser settings, such as a new homepage or unexpected toolbars. In some cases, infections may not exhibit noticeable symptoms, making them difficult to detect without the use of security software.

How to Remove Deskbar

  1. Enter Safe Mode with Networking to restrict the malware's ability to interfere with the removal process. This mode allows you to use the internet to download necessary tools while limiting the system to only essential services.
  2. Perform a full scan of your system using a reputable anti-malware tool, such as SpyHunter. Ensure the software is updated to the latest version to maximize its effectiveness against the threat.
  3. Uninstall suspicious programs that were installed around the time the infection was detected. Be cautious and only remove programs you are certain are malicious or unnecessary.
  4. Reset your web browsers (Chrome, Firefox, Edge, etc.) to their default settings. This step can help remove any malicious extensions or settings changes made by the malware.
  5. After completing the above steps, reboot your computer and then perform another full scan to ensure the threat has been completely removed.

Conclusion

The removal of Deskbar requires a systematic approach to ensure all components of the malware are eliminated from the system. By following the steps outlined in this report and maintaining vigilance through regular system scans and updates, users can significantly reduce the risk of future infections. It's also crucial to practice safe computing habits, such as avoiding suspicious downloads and emails, to prevent similar threats from compromising your system in the future.

Aliases

15 security vendors flagged this file as malicious.

Antivirus Vendor Detection
TrendMicro Cryp_Naix-6
Symantec Spyware.IEToolbar
Sunbelt Deskbar.GiantExplorer
Sophos SearchIt
Prevx1 Adware
Panda Adware/ActiveSearch
NOD32 Win32/Adware.Softomate
Ikarus not-a-virus:AdWare.Win32.Mostofate.r
Fortinet Adware/Softomate
F-Secure AdWare.Win32.Mostofate.r
eSafe Spyware.Gen
ClamAV Adware.Toolbar
CAT-QuickHeal AdWare.Softomate.r (Not a Virus)
BitDefender Application.Adware.Softomate.R
AVG Generic.QGS

File System Details

Deskbar may create the following file(s):
# File Name MD5 Detections
1. nwnmff_e[1].exe 7f2f9e330d420138755b187b9f3d7a55 0
2. deskbar_e31.exe 78075c01c8ce1400107e9f25008637ae 0
3. nwnmff_e23.exe a4812a2ade585c14acbca5597fb10d74 0
4. deskbar.exe a0d9ae89df87aa63638101eac95d865e 0
5. deskbar.dll 95c1e30dce3ec1d9bb147d9df8426d7b 0
6. deskbar3.exe 694ca927204b4dd01cba63a7ef7d2172 0
More files

Registry Details

Deskbar may create the following registry entry or registry entries:
CLSID
{A0881AA1-68BE-41AC-9C0D-4C8A69C6C72C}