Coverage of remote access trojans examines malware controlling compromised devices, including incidents, analysis, infrastructure, disruption, and defenses.
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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.
The U.S. Justice Department (DoJ) on Friday announced the seizure of online infrastructure that was used to sell a remote access trojan (RAT) called Warzone RAT
2 Men Arrested in Malta, Nigeria for Hawking Malware on Hacking Forums Since 2012Federal authorities have seized internet domains and arrested two men in Malta and Nigeria who they say served as sales and customer service reps for a dark web business that sold RAT malware to cybercriminals over a 12-year period, leading to the "takeover and infection of computers worldwide."
Dutch military intelligence warns that new malware, called "Coathanger," was found in multiple FortiGate devices during an incident response, and that Chinese-state actors are using the persistent RAT for espionage.
The threat actor known as Patchwork likely used romance scam lures to trap victims in Pakistan and India, and infect their Android devices with a remote access trojan called VajraSpy