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...
Understanding Rootkits: Their Function and Impact Rootkits began as tools on Unix systems, designed to help users gain root-level access while concealing their actions. Today, attackers use them to maintain administrative control over a system—whether it’s Unix-based or Windows—without detection. Because of their stealth, removing rootkits is one of the most complex challenges in cybersecurity. What Are Rootkits? Rootkits are programs that specialize in hiding. They obscure files, processes, registry keys, and even network activity. Many also enable remote control, allowing attackers to silently manipulate compromised systems. Interestingly, some legitimate software uses rootkit-like methods. For example: âś” Emulation software, such...
In the world of malware analysis, it’s not uncommon to run into files that are deceptively large. Why? Because attackers use a technique called file padding to sneak past detection tools. When these oversized files bypass platforms like VirusTotal—which has a 650MB upload limit—it’s easy to see how this tactic gives attackers an edge. But with proper file padding removal, you can level the playing field. Let’s break it down. 🔍 What Is File Padding? To start, file padding refers to the process of injecting additional, non-functional bytes (often just 00s) into a file. These bytes serve no real purpose...
🦠Understanding File Infectors: What They Are and How They Work A file infector virus is a dangerous type of malware that injects malicious code into executable files. Once infected, these files can no longer be trusted—they may appear normal, but they’re now carriers of malware that can corrupt key system files and spread rapidly across devices. 🔹 When you run an infected file, the virus activates and begins infecting others.🔹 These threats often target file types like .EXE, .COM, .SCR, .HTM, .HTML, .XML, .ZIP, and .RAR.🔹 They typically hide in memory, waiting for a specific event to trigger additional...
This guide assumes you have a basic understanding of how to download and install programs, as well as the ability to make simple observations about what’s running on your system. Using the free virus and malware removal tools outlined here, you’ll be able to detect and eliminate most threats, including spyware, adware, and other unwanted programs. However, some malware is designed to evade detection by disguising itself as legitimate processes or embedding itself deep within the system, making it necessary to take matters into your own hands. This process takes time—especially when running full system scans—but it becomes easier the...