General

Malware Config

Targets

    • Detects DonutLoader

    • Family: DonutLoader

      DonutLoader is a position-independent code that enables in-memory execution of VBScript, JScript, EXE, DLL files and dotNET assemblies.

    • Windows security bypass

    • Command and Scripting Interpreter: PowerShell

      Run Powershell to modify Windows Defender settings to add exclusions for file extensions, paths, and processes.

    • Downloads MZ/PE file

    • Checks computer location settings

      Looks up country code configured in the registry, likely geofence.

    • Creates a file in the Startup directory

      A file was written to a Windows startup folder. Files in these directories are executed automatically when a user logs on or an application initializes.

    • Executes dropped EXE

    • Loads dropped DLL

    • Prevents Microsoft Defender from scanning certain paths by adding an exclusion.

      Uses the Powershell Add-MpPreference cmdlet to exclude paths from being scanned by Microsoft Defender.

    • Reads WinSCP keys stored on the system

      Tries to access WinSCP stored sessions.

    • Reads data files stored by FTP clients

      Tries to access configuration files associated with programs like FileZilla.

    • Reads user/profile data of web browsers

      Infostealers often target stored browser data, which can include saved credentials etc.

    • Unsecured Credentials: Credentials In Files

      Steal credentials from unsecured files.

    • Accesses Microsoft Outlook profiles

    • Adds Run key to start application

    • Checks installed software on the system

      Looks up Uninstall key entries in the registry to enumerate software on the system.

    • Checks whether UAC is enabled

    • Contacts third-party web service commonly abused for C2

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

    • Hide Artifacts: Hidden Window

      Windows that would typically be displayed when an application carries out an operation can be hidden.

    • Looks up external IP address via web service

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

    • Maps connected drives based on registry

      Disk information is often read in order to detect sandboxing environments.

    • Network Share Discovery

      Attempt to gather information on host network.

    • Obfuscated Files or Information: Command Obfuscation

      Adversaries may obfuscate content during command execution to impede detection.

    • Discovers running processes

      Running process information can be used to identify security tools or plan follow-on actions.

    • Executes a VBScript file via the Windows Script Host.

    • Suspicious use of NtSetInformationThreadHideFromDebugger

MITRE ATT&CK Enterprise v16

Tasks