How to Detect Hidden Processes Using Process Hacker

Some malware and rootkits attempt to hide from standard process viewers like Task Manager. Process Hacker provides advanced capabilities to detect these hidden processes. This guide will teach you how to identify processes that try to remain invisible.

Understanding Hidden Processes

Hidden processes use various techniques to avoid detection:

• Hooking system APIs to filter process lists
• Running as kernel-mode drivers
• Using process hollowing techniques
• Injecting into legitimate processes

Step 1: Compare Process Lists

Compare Process Hacker's process list with Task Manager. Discrepancies may indicate hidden processes. Process Hacker uses different APIs that may reveal processes hidden from Task Manager.

Step 2: Use Kernel-Mode Stack Traces

Process Hacker's kernel-mode driver (KProcessHacker) can capture stack traces that reveal hidden processes. Enable the driver and use stack trace analysis to identify suspicious activity.

Step 3: Check Process Properties

Examine process properties for suspicious indicators:

• Processes with no parent process
• Processes running from suspicious locations
• Processes with unusual thread counts
• Processes with no visible window

Step 4: Monitor Process Creation

Use Process Hacker to monitor process creation in real-time. Hidden processes may appear briefly during creation before hiding themselves.

Step 5: Analyze System Resources

Hidden processes still consume system resources. Monitor CPU, memory, and network usage to identify unexplained resource consumption that may indicate hidden processes.

Conclusion

Process Hacker's advanced capabilities make it an effective tool for detecting hidden processes. By using these techniques, you can identify malware and rootkits that attempt to hide from standard detection methods.