RAT (remote access Trojan)
an online access Trojan (RAT) is a type of malware that has a back door for gaining administrative access to the target machine. RATs are typically transmitted as an email attachment or downloaded covertly along with a user-requested programme, such as a game. Once the host system has been taken over, the intrusive party may utilise it to launch a botnet and spread RATs to other exposed machines
A RAT allows for administrative control, which enables the hacker to perform practically anything on the targeted computer, including:
- observing user activity via spyware or keyloggers.
- accessing private data, including social security and credit card numbers.
- enabling a system's webcam and starting a video recording.
- the means of screenshots.
- spreading malware and other threats.
- drive formatting.
- deletion, download, and file system modification.
- One of the most famous RATs is the Back Orifice rootkit. Back Orifice was developed by the Cult of the Dead Cow hacker collective to reveal Microsoft's Windows operating systems' security flaws.
Because they typically don't appear in listings of currently running programmes or tasks, RATs can be challenging to spot. They may carry out acts that resemble those of trustworthy programmes. Additionally, a hacker will frequently control the resource usage so that a decline in performance doesn't notify the user that something is wrong.
Use the same precautions you would stop other malware infections to protect your machine from RAT infections: Update your antivirus application regularly, avoid downloading apps from unreliable sources, and never open attachments. It's always a good idea to block unused ports, disable unwanted services, and keep an eye on outgoing traffic at the administrator level.
Another name for RAT is the remote administration tool.
Defending Against Remote Access Trojans
Organization-wide security awareness training is essential to a RAT defence plan. The majority of security incidents are caused by human error, and RAT is no exception. Attackers often use phishing campaigns' infected attachments and links to launch this virus. Employees must use caution to prevent unintended network infection.
RATs are frequently used to steal administrative passwords, giving attackers access to crucial information on the network of the company. You can limit the effects of compromised credentials by implementing rigorous access controls. Implementing two-step verification, more robust firewall setups, whitelisting IP addresses for allowed users, and utilising more sophisticated antivirus programmes are all examples of stricter rules.
RATs are trojans that can seem to be trustworthy programmes. RATs often include malicious code linked to a legitimate programme. Watch for strange behaviour in programmes and systems that could point to a RAT.
Observe the Network Traffic
A RAT can be used by an attacker to remotely control a compromised machine over the network. The remote command and control (C&C) server are contacted by a RAT installed on a local device. Use tools like web application firewalls (WAF) to monitor and restrict C&C communications. Keep an eye out for unusual network traffic associated with such interactions.