Coverage of remote access trojans examines malware controlling compromised devices, including incidents, analysis, infrastructure, disruption, and defenses.
Search across headline titles and summaries.
Background for this topic.
A remote access trojan (RAT) is malware that gives an unauthorized operator remote control over an infected device. Depending on its design, it may execute commands, browse or copy files, log keystrokes, capture screens, or use a microphone or camera. RATs commonly communicate with attacker-controlled command-and-control infrastructure; capabilities and persistence vary, so reporting should identify the specific family or tool rather than assume every RAT has the same functions.
The main concerns are covert access, exposure of sensitive data, and use of the host to deploy additional malware or alter systems. Defenders should monitor endpoint processes and network behavior, restrict unnecessary outbound connections, keep software patched, and use endpoint controls that can detect unusual remote-control activity. If a RAT is suspected, isolate the device, preserve relevant logs and malware samples, investigate related accounts and hosts, and rotate credentials after containment; blocking one server alone may not remove persistence.
Disguised as harmless PDF documents, LNK files trigger a PowerShell script, initiating a Rust-based injector called Freeze[.]rs and a host of malware infections.
Malicious actors are using a legitimate Rust-based injector called Freeze[.]rs to deploy a commodity malware called XWorm in victim environments
The group continues to target SQL servers, adding the Remcos RAT, BatCloak, and Metasploit in an attack that shows advance obfuscation methods.
A new malware campaign has been observed making use of malicious OpenBullet configuration files to target inexperienced cyber criminals with the goal of delivering a remote access trojan (RAT) capable of stealing sensitive information