CoffeeLoader is the latest malware loader observed in the wild, noted for its stealth and complexity. Emerging around September 2024, it delivers second-stage payloads while evading endpoint detection. Built for resilience, CoffeeLoader employs GPU-powered encryption, sleep obfuscation, and Windows fiber techniques to avoid forensic tools. Related: Technical Analysis of Rhadamanthys Obfuscation Techniques Key Takeaways Technical Breakdown The “Armoury” Malware Packer This custom packer mimics ASUS’ Armoury Crate utilities. It hijacks DLL exports and executes shellcode that triggers GPU-based decryption using OpenCL: Using hardcoded XOR strings and OpenCL, payloads remain hidden in memory until needed. This technique complicates static analysis and...
Introduction First detected in December 2022, Rhadamanthys malware is a sophisticated C++ information stealer, primarily delivered via malicious Google Ads. This threat targets credentials stored in web browsers, VPNs, chat clients, and cryptocurrency wallets. While public awareness of Rhadamanthys grew in late 2022, its activity dates back to at least August that year. This deep dive dissects the Rhadamanthys loader and main module, including: If you’re interested in similar malware behavior, check out our coverage of CoffeeLoader malware or this guide on how to manually remove malware. Key Takeaways Technical Analysis Loader Breakdown The Rhadamanthys loader comprises three sequential stages:...
Introduction to SmokeLoader Malware SmokeLoader is a long-standing malware downloader that has remained active in the threat landscape since 2011. Known for its modular architecture and consistent evolution, SmokeLoader serves as a launchpad for delivering other malicious payloads. This in-depth timeline examines the malware’s development across its decade-long activity. In its early years, SmokeLoader employed basic functionality and straightforward distribution. Over time, however, it adopted more advanced features—including custom encryption, obfuscation, plugin support, and anti-analysis methods. These continuous changes allowed it to evade detection and maintain persistence in targeted systems. Throughout this article, we’ll explore the key innovations and functionality...
DLL sideloading is a sophisticated technique used by attackers to inject malicious code into legitimate processes. This guide covers what DLL sideloading is, how attackers use it, how to detect it using DLLHound, and how to prevent and remove it effectively. Additionally, we explain how thick clients relate to this issue and provide proactive strategies for IT and security professionals. 🧩 What Is DLL Sideloading? DLL sideloading exploits how Windows searches for Dynamic Link Library (DLL) files when an application is launched. When an executable calls a DLL without specifying its full path, Windows uses a pre-defined search order to...
🔍 Introduction Alternate Data Streams (ADS) are hidden components attached to regular files—such as documents, executables, and system files—on NTFS drives. In this guide, you’ll learn: To enhance your malware detection skills, consider reviewing Learning HijackThis!. 🧠 A Brief History of ADS Since their introduction in Windows NT with the NTFS file system, ADS have served a purpose. They were originally designed to maintain compatibility with Apple’s Hierarchical File System (HFS). 📌 Legitimate Uses: While these uses are valid, attackers frequently exploit ADS for concealment. 🧰 How Software Uses ADS Legitimate programs commonly utilize ADS to store metadata invisibly. For...
🔍 What Is an MBR Infection? An MBR (Master Boot Record) infection happens when malware compromises the first sector of your hard drive—the part that loads before your operating system. This type of infection is especially dangerous because: ⚠️ Step 1: Recognizing the Signs Watch for these warning signs that may indicate your MBR is compromised: 🧪 Step 2: Scanning for an MBR Infection Use the methods below to scan your system for signs of an MBR infection: 🖥️ Method 1: Check Using Command Prompt 🔎 Method 2: Use FRST (Farbar Recovery Scan Tool) 🛡️ Method 3: Bootable Antivirus Scan...
🧭 Introduction When analyzing antivirus logs or researching malware, you’ll encounter countless technical terms, acronyms, and security-related abbreviations. This guide on Security & Anti-Malware Terminology aims to make sense of those terms. While not exhaustive, it includes many of the most common malware categories and system-level definitions used in security analysis. This reference also complements related SM-U guides, including How to Research for Virus and Malware Analysis, Learning HijackThis!, and Rootkits 101. 🦠 Malware Classifications & Abbreviations Antivirus tools often categorize threats using shorthand labels. Recognizing these will help you interpret logs and reports effectively: Additional Malware Types For more...
When faced with mysterious files or cryptic log entries, a structured approach can make all the difference. Luckily, learning how to research for virus and malware analysis doesn’t have to be boring. With the right tools, techniques, and a bit of curiosity, the process can actually be… kinda fun. 😎 Let’s walk through it together—step by step! 🔍 What Should Be Researched? Before diving into forums or search engines, it should be determined exactly what needs to be researched. A full log entry can seem overwhelming, but clarity is quickly gained by breaking it into digestible parts. 🧩 Take this...
🔎 What Exactly Is HijackThis!? HijackThis! (HJT) is a diagnostic tool used to scan your computer for specific areas commonly targeted by malware and browser hijackers. It identifies: HijackThis! is powerful and should ideally be used by trained individuals. Logs generated by HijackThis! list both legitimate and potentially malicious entries, making correct interpretation critical. Mastering HijackThis! can significantly enhance your malware defense capabilities. 📋 Understanding a HijackThis! Log HijackThis! logs divide into distinct categories, each indicated by a unique alphanumeric designation: 🌐 Internet Explorer & Browser Settings 🚀 Startup Programs & Registry Entries ⚙️ Advanced System Modifications 📜 Example of...
Introduction When you’re investigating potentially malicious activity on a system, identifying whether a file, registry key, process, or domain is trustworthy is critical. Malicious code often hides in plain sight—masquerading as legitimate system components or using clever disguises to avoid detection. That’s why having the right tools and trusted resources is essential for anyone engaged in malware analysis, threat hunting, or incident response. This guide provides a categorized list of top malware & virus analysis resources to help you verify files, analyze processes, research registry entries, and investigate suspicious network indicators. 1. Online File & URL Scanners These platforms allow...