Guides - secure my universe

CoffeeLoader Malware: Advanced Loader Techniques

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…

Technical Analysis of Rhadamanthys Obfuscation Techniques

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:…

A Brief History of SmokeLoader Malware

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…

DOGE Website Hacked: A Breakdown of the Security Breach

A website launched by Elon Musk’s Department of Government Efficiency (DOGE) recently became the center of controversy after it was discovered to contain a severe security flaw. In this high-profile case of the DOGE website hacked, unauthorized users were able to modify live content directly on the government platform. What Went Wrong? The issue stemmed from the website’s use of an unsecured external database. According to two experienced web development experts, this exposed the DOGE website to public modification. Anyone with knowledge of the vulnerability could upload and display content on the official page. Initially launched in January, the site…

Understanding: Safe Mode vs. WinRE

Windows includes two essential diagnostic environments—Safe Mode and Windows Recovery Environment (WinRE)—that help users fix boot failures, remove malware, and repair damaged systems. In this guide, we’ll break down the features of each, how to access them, and when to use them. By the end, you’ll fully understand Windows Safe Mode vs. WinRE and how to choose the right one for your troubleshooting needs. 🔧 What is Windows Safe Mode? Safe Mode is a built-in Windows diagnostic mode that starts the operating system with only the essential drivers and services. It’s designed to help users resolve software conflicts, malware issues,…

DLLHound – DLL Sideloading Detection & Removal

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…

Top 10 IT Systems Management Tools for 2025

This guide to the Top 10 IT Systems Management Tools for 2025 highlights how the right platforms can transform IT operations in the modern era. With hybrid infrastructures, growing cybersecurity threats, and the need for efficiency across networks, endpoints, and applications, the right tools can transform the way IT teams and managed service providers (MSPs) operate. We will explore these IT systems management tools that combine remote monitoring, automation, and advanced diagnostics to keep systems secure and high-performing. If you already know about RMM and MDM, you can use this to skip to the list of software solutions. 🤖 What…

UEFI boot (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) Guide

UEFI, or Unified Extensible Firmware Interface, is the modern replacement for BIOS. It improves security, boot speed, and hardware compatibility on most newer systems. This guide explains what UEFI is, how it works, and how to manage UEFI settings for better control over your PC. 🧠 What Is UEFI? UEFI is the standard firmware interface on most modern computers. It replaced the legacy BIOS system and offers key advantages: 🆚 UEFI vs BIOS: What’s the Difference? BIOS (Legacy) UEFI (Modern) 🔍 How to Check if Your System Uses UEFI or BIOS Option 1 – System Information Option 2 – Command…

How to Fix Files with “?” in Name on Windows

🔍 Introduction Seeing a question mark (?) in a file name on Windows usually signals a problem with the file system, cloud sync, or character compatibility. This guide walks you through the most common causes and shows you how to fix files with “?” in name, whether that means renaming, deleting, or recovering them. Common reasons include: ⚠️ Why Files End Up with “?” in Their Name A question mark is not a valid character in NTFS file names. So when it appears: This issue can lead to inaccessible or undeletable files unless handled properly. 🛠️ How to Fix Files…

ADS Infections Removal – Windows Alternate Data Streams

🔍 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…

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