FatalRAT Malware Targeting Organizations
By Thomas Chustz, TraceSecurity
Numerous organizations in the Asia-Pacific region have been falling victim to phishing attacks using a malware called FatalRAT. A Remote Access Trojan (RAT) is a type of malware that, when deployed, gives a malicious actor control over your device. This control includes viewing your screen, moving your mouse, and potentially obtaining passwords.
In this situation, the attacker typically operates in secret, with the user completely unaware, while causing significant damage. While the FatalRAT attackers remain anonymous, numerous systems are being compromised by their phishing attacks; quite the price to pay for opening an email attachment.
Analysis
FatalRAT attackers employ a multi-stage payload delivery method that evades detection and attempts to establish a foothold in the network while the user remains unaware. Once persistence is established, FatalRAT extracts keystrokes, downloads software, terminates processes, and toggles proxies. Thus, completely compromising the integrity of the device and potentially compromising the integrity of other devices.
If the attack causes enough damage, the reputation of the organization can also be affected. Financial loss can also occur, depending on what the attackers target and whether they deploy ransomware. All of this could have been avoided with user security awareness training on how to recognize phishing emails.
User Training
User awareness training is crucial in preventing phishing attacks. All it takes is for one user to open a malicious attachment or click a link for a compromise to occur. Some red flags can include emails from a domain you’re unfamiliar with or a domain that is similar to yours but not identical.
Phishing emails can also create a false sense of urgency, prompting users to click the link or open the attachment immediately. Users need to keep their composure when encountering an email. Users should be trained regularly on how to recognize and avoid phishing emails. The best way to refine personnel’s composure regarding such pressing phishing emails is through experience and testing. Effective testing examples can include phishing emails from known vendors or even those sent by an internal employee.
Testing examples can even consist of a fake coupon from their favorite lunch spot, right around lunchtime. These phishing campaigns should not be easy and should be challenging. It’s essential to employ every trick in the book against personnel, much like an outside attacker would attempt to do anything to get a user to click on a compromised link.
Phishing attacks remain a highly effective method for compromising organizations. Even with numerous security controls in place, a single click can allow malicious actors to gain access to your environment. User awareness training is key for preparing and preventing these types of attacks.
TraceSecurity offers comprehensive phishing testing to help users test their defenses against real-world attacks and develop discipline when encountering seemingly urgent phishing emails. With numerous templates and custom options, we can develop robust phishing tests that challenge your employees to better prepare against real-world threats. It’s better to be proactive with personnel training and avoid a breach before it occurs.
Connect with TraceSecurity to learn more.
