Event Triggered Execution: Component Object Model Hijacking

Adversaries may establish persistence by executing malicious content triggered by hijacked references to Component Object Model (COM) objects.

Executes dropped EXE

Loads dropped DLL

Modifies system executable filetype association

Reads user/profile data of web browsers

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

Adds Run key to start application

Checks for any installed AV software in registry

Checks installed software on the system

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

Enumerates connected drives

Attempts to read the root path of hard drives other than the default C: drive.

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.

Drops file in System32 directory