How to get rid of remote access trojans (RAT)? This is because RATS are legitimate programs which have been modified by hackers to include malicious code. What makes matters worse is that even if you have anti-virus software installed on your computer, most AV programs are not capable of detecting a RAT infection. Once infected, RATs give the attacker full control of your computer they can remotely activate your webcam and microphone without you knowing, intercept keystrokes (including sensitive information like passwords), steal files, destroy files or entire hard drives, delete Windows settings (to prevent recovery), install Crypt malware, use MS Office to send emails that look like they’re from someone else (and thus trick them into giving up their password) open any arbitrary website on your computer/browser, change system settings (background picture etc.) and so much more.
Hackers can exploit this function by figuring out which are the default logins of popular RATS, then infecting thousands of computers all at once. The problem with such programs is that they often do not require any authentication meaning it doesn’t always require a login and password when you want to access them. They were developed for legitimate purposes such as system administration, remote learning/teaching and customer support (to name a few). The three types of programs typically work together to accomplish their goal: to take control or monitor your computer (what hackers would refer to as “the host”).Ī RAT’s original purpose is to let a user remotely access and manage computers, servers, networks and entire infrastructures via the internet. RATs can be either purchased or programmed by a hacker him-or-herself, but generally they fall under three categories: Remote Access Trojans (RATs) are programs that allow hackers to control or monitor your computer remotely, usually through the internet. In this article we’ll explain how to get rid of Remote Access Trojans.