Computers and smartphones both are susceptible to malware and other spyware in general, which can wreak havoc on your device. These programs silently creep onto your machine and can be quite a headache.
In this article, we’re taking a look at what is an SVC agent.
Also read: What is code-signed Malware and ways to protect your device
What are SVC Agents?
Simply put, SVC Agent is a term for malware that impersonate itself as a Windows service. This phenomenon isn’t limited to Windows either; an Android malware disguised as a system service is also called an SVC Agent.
These malware mimic legitimate Windows (or Android) services to avoid being spotted by users. They can either be spawned by another malware on your device or can originate from malicious downloads.
They can also by spyware that can secretly record from your cameras, retrieve your call logs and text messages, as well as gain access to your phone’s storage.
This generally works because a trojan infects your device, establishes a connection with its command-and-control centre, and then carries out commands and sends back data to its operator. The commands can include stealing and sending personal information and even making your device act as a DDoS bot to contribute to an ongoing attack.
How to spot and get rid of them?
Since SVC Agents impersonate a legitimate service, it can be rather hard to stop them. But if your device suddenly starts running into performance issues, heats up a lot or shows signs of extreme stress without you pushing the system, chances are you’re infected by malware.
In such cases, it’s best to run a full system scan and hope that your antivirus will identify the culprit, which it should, in most cases. Otherwise, you’re going to have to factory reset your device and wipe out the entire storage to ensure that there’s no trace of the malware left.
Also read: 9 common types of Malware explained
