www.malwarebytes.com 8/24/2026, 12:17:31 PM · external

PavinLoader malware spreads via ClickFix and fake download scams

PavinLoader malware spreads via ClickFix and fake download scams
CyberSIXT Evidence Panel Source marked as original reporting

THE article "Tracking PavinLoader across ClickFix and fake download campaigns" details the operations of the PavinLoader malware across various malicious campaigns, including ClickFix and fake software downloads. Key points include:

1. **PavinLoader** is a multi-stage loader used to facilitate malware infections, identified through its deployment in several campaigns that utilize heavily obfuscated .NET DLLs and various Windows tools.

2. The typical attack execution involves victims encountering fraudulent prompts, leading to downloads of seemingly legitimate software that actually contains the loader.

3. The loader's consistent methods include employing EtherHiding to retrieve command-and-control (C2) domains, executing .NET files, and utilizing obfuscated scripts to evade detection.

4. The malware has been linked to other malicious entities, notably delivering the Amatera Stealer, which is designed to extract sensitive information from infected systems.

5. Analysis reveals that PavinLoader might function as a Loader-as-a-Service, with numerous samples sharing compilation artifacts suggesting a commercial offering.

6. The article concludes with detailed technical specifications on how PavinLoader is distributed and its various functionalities, highlighting its adaptability across different infection vectors.

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Article by CyberSIXT