A “Bootkits” is defined as malware that can only infect the boot process of a system and is sometimes referred to as the “Rootkit”. Since boot-level malware is extremely challenging to detect and could become fatal if left alone. The system is usually infected with a “Bootkit” when a malicious file (the pirated software) is executed. This malicious program is run before the operating system boots and can access the “MBR” or “UEFI”, which is supposed to remain protected from untrusted software or programs.

This guide explains the “Bootkits” and uncovers the methods to protect your system from them through the following content:

• • What exactly is a Bootkit?
  • How to Remove a Bootkit From the System?
  • How to Prevent a Bootkit From Infecting the System?

What Exactly is a “Bootkit”?

The “Bootkit” is a type of malware used to infect the “MBR” or “UEFI” of the system, which is responsible for starting/booting the OS by configuring the hardware components and launching the bootloader. Since the “Bootkit” is loaded/run before the OS is booted, and once the system becomes infected, it is almost impossible to remove it unless you format your whole storage device.

A system infected with a “Bootkit” is automatically vulnerable to easy malware attacks in the future because it can also open backdoors that trigger severe consequences.

How to Remove a “Bootkit” From the System?

Since the “Bootkits” are specifically designed to remain hidden from all types of “Antivirus Software”, before removing do look at the symptoms saying that your system is infected with a “Bootkit”:

1. 1. An encrypted system with an unknown extension.
   2. Random ads pop up on the system.
   3. The browser’s homepage is redirecting to some unknown page.

If you face any of the above symptoms, there is a high possibility that your system’s security is compromised with a “Bootkit”. To remove it, you must format your whole storage device and re-install the OS.

The “Bootkits” are loaded/run before the OS is booted, so they’re practically hidden from the OS. It currently (at the time of this writing) cannot be detected by any antivirus/antimalware software, leave alone removing them, because they are not the ordinary viruses/malware you can remove with a click.

How to Prevent a “Bootkit” From Infecting the System?

The “Bootkits” can be prevented if you follow these practices:

1. 1. The “Secure Boot” is a security mechanism you must enable it on the system to protect your system against most boot-level malware. However, it is not foolproof as there is a “Bootkit” named “BlackLotus” that surprisingly bypasses the “Secure Boot” mechanism but is pretty hard to implement.
   2. Do not install pirated software, apps, or games because often, there’s malware attached, and the ones spreading it tell that it is a false-positive which is often real malware.
   3. Only download the e-mail attachments from trusted sources, as it is the most commonly used way to spread malware worldwide.
   4. Since the malware on your system is loaded from external sources, keeping your system and antivirus/antimalware software updated is highly recommended.

We have covered what are Bootkits and how to prevent them.

Conclusion

The “Bootkits” is extremely harmful malware that infects the system’s “MBR” or “UEFI” firmware that triggers the booting of an OS. There’s no way to detect or remove them unless you wipe your system’s whole storage and reinstall the operating system. To prevent the “Bootkit” attack on your system, make sure not to open suspicious emails or install untrusted software. For additional protection turn on the “Secure Boot” and update the antivirus/antimalware software. This guide explained the “Bootkits” and the information you need to prevent them.