Executes dropped EXE

Loads dropped DLL

Modifies file permissions

Adds Run key to start application

Contacts third-party web service commonly abused for C2

Legitimate web (hosting) services can be abused by malware authors to host malware or C2s.

Looks up external IP address via web service

Uses a legitimate IP lookup service to find the infected system's external IP.

Writes to the Master Boot Record (MBR)

Bootkits write to the MBR to gain persistence at a level below the operating system.