Geek's Advice

Csrss.exe process is generally safe, but its fake copy can hide a Trojan

CSRSS.EXE (stands for: Client Server Runtime Process) is a legitimate Windows Operating system process that is generally responsible for console windows, adding/deleting threads and implementing parts of the 16-bit MS-DOS environment. Its genuine copy resides in C:\Windows\System32. This process is an essential part of Windows OS and should be running at all times. However, if you have figured out that the process named identically isn’t originating from folder mentioned previously, it indicates a virus infection and you should scan your PC immediately.

Speaking of Csrss.exe virus, there are a variety of malware disguising behind this name. Examples include a self-replicating worms Nimda.E, Netsky and Trojan.W32.Beagle. These type of programs typically spread in a form of email attachment, and once landed on the computer system, they can perform various sorts of illegal activities, such as data theft, infecting other computers, and similar.

Other forms of malware abusing this legitimate process name might include miners (illegal programs that leverage victim’s computer resources to mine cryptocurrency), ransomware (encrypts all files on the system and asks to pay a ransom), or spyware-type programs (displays intrusive advertisements, collects browsing-related data and performs other unwanted activities). That said, it is important to identify the true nature of this process before it can damage your computer. The easiest way to determine it is described below.

How to detect a fake csrss.exe?

1. Launch Windows Task Manager.
2. Identify process called Client Server Runtime Process or simply csrss.exe. Right-click it and choose Open File Location.
   
3. Now, check which folder it is located in. If the action in step #2 launches C:\Windows\System32 folder, then you can assume this file is secure. However, if it opens anywhere else, it is not the legitimate one and you should scan for malware immediately.
   
4. You can also choose to view the location by right-clicking the process and choosing Properties. You can see an example of real and malicious file locations below.
   

Malware distribution methods to know

If you want to avoid installation of malware such as csrss.exe Trojan that disguises as a legitimate Windows process, you should be more careful when browsing the Internet. Such and similar computer infections are typically distributed via email spam, unofficial software download sources, torrents and insecure websites.

When it comes to malicious spam, criminals attach the malware or inject a malicious script to a specific file type, such as .docx, .pdf, .ace or other. Such files are then added to emails along with a pushy message urging the target to open the attachment. If the victim fails to identify the deception and opens the attachment, the virus infects the system, sometimes showing no other signs of presence than irregular system slowdowns.

Speaking of unofficial software download sources and torrents, users often install malware alongside various cracks, keygens and similar tools. These files are available on a number of torrent-sharing websites that need to be downloaded using a torrent client. By trying to bypass the full software license price, users risk installing silent malware infections; therefore, cybersecurity experts recommend staying away from such illegal downloads.

Finally, you can accidentally land malware on your computer if you tend to use outdated software (for example, browser) and happen to visit a website that exploits vulnerabilities in outdated browser. In other scenario, you might come across deceptive websites that push fake software update ads (usually, for popular programs such as Adobe Flash Player or Java). Never agree to install updates from ransom pop-up ads, as these are most likely to spread spyware or malware instead of legitimate updates. Legitimate alerts about available updates are usually displayed by Windows itself and not browsers; if you have any concerns, you can always visit the official website of a specific software and check for updates there. This way, you will avoid accidental installation of potentially unwanted programs and various viruses.

Remove Csrss.exe virus safely

To identify and remove csrss.exe virus, use the instructions provided below. We recommend an automatic system scan using security software of your choice; additionally, we suggest scanning with RESTORO to remove malware remains and repair virus damage on the system.

To finalize csrss.exe Trojan removal, follow the given steps attentively.

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Norbert Webb

Norbert Webb is the head of Geek’s Advice team. He is the chief editor of the website who controls the quality of content published. The man also loves reading cybersecurity news, testing new software and sharing his insights on them. Norbert says that following his passion for information technology was one of the best decisions he has ever made. “I don’t feel like working while I’m doing something I love.” However, the geek has other interests, such as snowboarding and traveling.