What Are Infostealer Malware & How to Prevent Exposure

Infostealer malware is a growing cybersecurity threat that targets Windows PCs. It steals sensitive data such as passwords, banking details, and personal files. This type of malware is designed to operate stealthily, often going undetected until it’s too late. 

Understanding how infostealers work and implementing strong security measures can help protect your Windows PC from exposure.

What Is Infostealer Malware?

Infostealer malware is malicious software designed to steal sensitive data, including passwords, financial details, and browsing history. Cybercriminals use it to access personal information sold on the dark web or exploited for identity theft.

Recent threats have targeted Gmail and Outlook users, highlighting the growing risk of password theft. A leading threat intelligence agency analyzing dark web data has revealed the alarming scale of this cyber threat. Protecting your passwords from infostealer malware is now more critical than ever.

How to Prevent Exposure to Infostealer Malware

1. Enable Strong Antivirus Protection

A reliable antivirus program can help detect and block information thieves before they cause harm. Windows Defender provides essential protection, but third-party security software with real-time malware scanning enhances security.

I recommend using Fortect with real-time malware protection. It automatically scans your Windows PC for threats, including advanced ones like Infostealer malware. Once detected, Fortect removes the malware and optimizes your computer simultaneously.

Download and install Fortect today.

2. Keep Your Windows PC Updated

Ensure your Windows operating system, browsers, and software are always up to date. Microsoft frequently releases security patches to fix vulnerabilities that malware can exploit.

How to Check for Windows Updates

• Open Settings – Press Win + I to open the Settings app.
• Go to Windows Update – Click on Update & Security, then select Windows Update (Windows 10) or Windows Update in the left panel (Windows 11).
• Check for Updates – Click Check for updates to see if any new updates are available.
• Install Updates – If updates are available, click Download and install and restart your PC if required.

How to Check for Browser Updates

• Google Chrome:
  1. Open Chrome and click on the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
  2. Go to Help > About Google Chrome.
  3. Chrome will automatically check for updates and prompt you to restart if needed.
• Microsoft Edge:
  1. Open Edge and click the three-dot menu in the top-right corner.
  2. Go to Help and Feedback > About Microsoft Edge.
  3. Edge will check for updates and apply them automatically.
• Mozilla Firefox:
  1. Open Firefox and click the menu button (three horizontal lines).
  2. Select Help > About Firefox.
  3. Firefox will check for updates and install them automatically.

3. Avoid Phishing Scams

• Do not click on suspicious email links or download attachments from unknown senders.
• Verify email senders and check for spelling errors or unusual language in messages.

4. Use a Password Manager and Enable MFA

• Store and generate complex passwords using a password manager.
• Enable Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA) on all critical accounts to prevent unauthorized access.

5. Be Cautious with Software Downloads

• Only download applications from trusted sources such as official vendor websites.
• Avoid pirated software, as it often comes bundled with malware.

6. Secure Your Browser & Disable Autofill

• Use privacy-focused browsers with enhanced security settings.
• Disable browser autofill for sensitive data to prevent malware from harvesting stored credentials.

7. Regularly Scan Your PC for Threats

Perform frequent malware scans using built-in Windows security tools or advanced PC repair solutions like Fortect. Fortect provides real-time malware protection, scans your system for threats, and helps repair corrupted files to maintain optimal performance.

How to Scan Your PC Using Windows Security

1. Open Windows Security
   • Press Win + I to open Settings.
   • Click Privacy & Security (Windows 11) or Update & Security (Windows 10).
   • Select Windows Security, then click Open Windows Security.
2. Go to Virus & Threat Protection
   • In the Windows Security dashboard, click Virus & threat protection.
3. Run a Quick Scan
   • Click Quick scan to check for common threats.
4. Perform a Full Scan (Recommended for Deep Scans)
   • Click Scan options under the “Current threats” section.
   • Select Full scan and click Scan now. This may take longer but provides a more thorough check.
5. Use Microsoft Defender Offline Scan (For Advanced Threats)
   • In the Scan options menu, select Microsoft Defender Offline scan.
   • Click Scan now. Your PC will restart and scan for deeply embedded malware.
6. Review Scan Results
   • If threats are found, follow Windows Security’s recommendations to remove or quarantine them.
7. Schedule Automatic Scans (Optional)
   • Open Task Scheduler (Win + R, type taskschd.msc, and press Enter).
   • Navigate to Task Scheduler Library > Microsoft > Windows > Windows Defender.
   • Right-click Windows Defender Scheduled Scan and select Properties.
   • Under the Triggers tab, set a schedule for automatic scans.

Regularly scanning your Windows PC ensures malware, including stealthy threats like Infostealer, is detected and removed before it compromises your data.

How Infostealers Infect Windows PCs

Infostealers typically infiltrate systems through:

• Phishing Emails – Malicious attachments or links disguised as legitimate messages.
• Software Downloads – Freeware, cracked software, or fake updates containing hidden malware.
• Drive-by Downloads – Automatic malware downloads from compromised or malicious websites.
• Infected USB Devices – Spreading malware when external storage is connected to a Windows PC.
• Trojanized Applications – Legitimate-looking apps that secretly contain infostealer code.

What to Do If Your PC Is Infected

If you suspect an info stealer infection:

1. Disconnect from the Internet – Prevent further data exfiltration.
2. Run a Full System Scan – Use antivirus software to detect and remove threats.
3. Change All Passwords – Update credentials for all online accounts using a clean device.
4. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA) – This adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
5. Restore from Backup – Use a secure backup to recover lost or compromised data if necessary.

Final Thoughts

Infostealer malware poses a significant risk to Windows PC users, compromising sensitive data and leading to financial losses. By following best security practices—such as using strong antivirus protection, avoiding phishing attempts, and keeping software updated—you can significantly reduce your risk of exposure. Stay proactive in your cybersecurity efforts to protect your personal information from cybercriminals.