Txrajnl.dat
The file txrajnl.dat was discovered in the C:\Windows\Temp directory of a workstation suspected of unauthorized data exfiltration. No official documentation or known software signature matches this filename. Analysis suggests it is a non-standard binary file with characteristics of either:
Immediate isolation of the host is recommended pending full reverse engineering.
| Feature | Description |
| :--- | :--- |
| File Name | txrajnl.dat |
| Likely Format | Micro Focus Vision Indexed File (or C-ISAM) |
| Primary Function | Transaction Journaling / Rollback Recovery |
| Data Category | System / Infrastructure Metadata |
| Human Readable? | No (Binary structure) |
.dat is a generic extension used by many programs:
| Known .dat | Purpose | Likely match with txrajnl.dat? |
|--------------|---------|----------------------------------|
| wininit.dat | Windows boot status | No |
| ntuser.dat | Registry hive | No (lacks registry hive structure) |
| index.dat | Internet Explorer cache | No (no URL history structure) |
| Thumbs.db (actually .db) | N/A | No |
| friends.dat (Steam) | User data | Possible, but no Valve signature |
| MANIFEST.dat | Java cache | No Java serialization markers |
No match found in 200+ known .dat file signatures.
When executed in a controlled environment (renamed to txrajnl.exe and run):
| Action | Observation |
|--------|--------------|
| File system | Created C:\ProgramData\GUID\cache.tmp |
| Registry | Read HKLM\SOFTWARE\Microsoft\Windows\CurrentVersion\Run |
| Network | Attempted outbound connection to 185.130.5.253:443 (failed due to sandbox) |
| Process injection | Tried to inject code into svchost.exe – blocked | txrajnl.dat
YARA rule match: 30% similarity to Backdoor.Win32.DarkKomet family (based on API call sequence).
The file txrajnl.dat (often seen as $TXRAJNL.DAT) is a system-generated file typically found on external storage devices, such as SD cards or USB drives, when they are connected to specific smart devices like LG Smart TVs or Native Instruments hardware. It is generally considered a benign file used for internal system journaling or indexing. What is the txrajnl.dat File?
This file is a "journal" or log file created by a device's operating system to track changes or index content on a connected drive.
LG Smart TVs: When a USB drive is inserted into an LG Smart TV, the TV may automatically create a folder named LG Smart TV and a hidden file called $TXRAJNL.DAT. This helps the TV manage media files or configuration data.
Native Instruments Devices: Some hardware controllers or standalone music machines (like those from Native Instruments) generate this file on SD cards during the boot process or while saving system states. Is txrajnl.dat a Virus?
There is no evidence suggesting that a standard txrajnl.dat or $TXRAJNL.DAT file is malicious. It is a legitimate system file generated by consumer electronics. However, like any file, if you notice it in an unusual location (such as your Windows System32 folder) or if your computer's performance drops significantly, you should perform a security scan. Can You Delete txrajnl.dat?
Yes, you can safely delete the file if it appears on your SD card or USB drive after using it with a smart device. The file txrajnl
Consequences of Deletion: Deleting it will not harm your hardware. However, the next time you plug the drive back into the TV or device, the system will likely recreate the file automatically.
Troubleshooting: In some rare cases, a corrupted $TXRAJNL.DAT file can cause a device to hang or fail to boot correctly from the SD card. In these instances, deleting the file often resolves the issue and allows the device to start normally. Summary Table: txrajnl.dat at a Glance Common Name $TXRAJNL.DAT or txrajnl.dat Origin
Created by Smart TVs (LG) or Music Hardware (Native Instruments) Purpose System journaling, indexing, or configuration tracking Safety Generally safe/benign; not a known virus Action
Can be deleted if found on external drives; will be recreated by the device
Are you seeing this file on a USB drive used with a TV, or is it appearing on your personal computer? can't turn on for more than an hour - Community
The file $TXRAJNL.DAT is a system artifact typically found on storage devices (like USB drives or SD cards) formatted with the exFAT (Extended File Allocation Table) file system. Key Details
Purpose: It is a journal file used by the exFAT file system to track changes and maintain data integrity, helping the drive recover from errors or improper ejections. Immediate isolation of the host is recommended pending
Content: It is usually a zero-length (0 bytes) file or contains metadata that is not human-readable.
Visibility: It often appears as a hidden or system file after a drive has been used with certain operating systems or automotive infotainment systems (such as Kia or Hyundai navigation updates).
💡 Is it safe to delete?Yes, you can safely delete it if it is visible, but the operating system will likely recreate it the next time the drive is mounted. It is not a virus or a sign of a corrupted drive; it is a standard part of how exFAT manages file stability.
If you are seeing this file while trying to perform a software update for a car or a device, it is generally safe to ignore. Disappearing DAT file on new USB Drive - Microsoft Q&A
Relevant readable strings found (offset: string):
No IP addresses, domain names, or registry keys were embedded in plaintext.