Name of Malware: Pirrit (InstallMonetizer)

Type of Malware: Potentially unwanted application (PUA/PUP, downloader

Affected Operating System: Windows, MacOS

Affected Device Types: PCs, laptops

Impact: medium

What is Pirrit?

Pirrit is a potentially unwanted application (PUA) for Windows and MacOS devices. It displays additional pop-ups and advertisements when the device is used.

Pirrit downloads other malicious programs from a server and runs these programs; it can also manipulate system files on your computer.

How did I get infected with Pirrit?

Pirrit relies on the user actively installing an infected application, which is normally hidden within another software package that appears completely harmless.

What do I have to do now?

To eliminate Pirrit and detect any other infections that may be present, we recommend scanning the system with an anti-virus program and removing any viruses that are detected.

Also ensure that any installed browser add-ons are removed.

Further information on removing this malware can be found under Removing infections from PCs, laptops etc.

Technical specifications

Further information on this malware can be found on the website of our project partner Fraunhofer FKIE.