RAT capabilities and stealer functionality: The .NET payload implements a remote access trojan that allows operators to interact directly with compromised systems. Unlike many commodity RATs that rely on periodic check-ins, this malware supports live command handling, enabling attackers to issue instructions and receive responses in near real-time.This interactive design allows operators to perform reconnaissance, manipulate files, execute commands, and manage persistence dynamically based on what they observe on the infected host.Alongside the RAT functionality, the malware includes an information-stealing component that collects sensitive system data. While the disclosure did not attribute the Stealer to a specific malware family, the researchers noted that it operates in parallel with the RAT, allowing data collection to continue while operators actively engage with the system.
Persistence, evasion, and mitigation: Persistence is maintained through Registry-based autorun entries and reinforced by the malware’s ability to re-establish execution if disrupted. The use of obfuscation across the .NET payload further complicates reverse engineering and slows analysis.Point Wild emphasized that the campaign’s effectiveness stems from disciplined execution of Living-off-the-land binaries, in-memory payloads, and obfuscated managed code. Together, they make detection difficult.The researchers noted that detecting the activity requires monitoring process and memory behavior rather than relying on file-based indicators, which include watching for suspicious PowerShell execution, shellcode injection into running processes, and suspicious persistence via Registry Run keys. Rapid host isolation and live response were emphasized to contain interactive activity and limit data theft once a compromise is suspected.
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