Also known as: JustForFun
Category: Malware
Type: Backdoor
Platform: Linux, Solaris
Variants: –
Damage potential: Cyber espionage, network spread, opening backdoor for other malware
Overview
BPFdoor is backdoor malware that preys on Linux-based systems. It exploits the Berkeley Packet Filter (BPF, as in the malware’s name) technology in the Linux kernel to access and gain control of systems. Such low-level code execution allows this malware to go undetected by antivirus software and firewalls while receiving network traffic from its command-and-control servers.
Possible symptoms
BPFdoor runs stealthily and renames itself after infecting a system, making it extremely difficult to detect — so it’s likely that there won’t be any obvious signs.
However, more subtle things like an unexpected increase in your network traffic or data usage might indicate the presence of malware on your system.
Sources of the infection
Cybercriminals behind BPFdoor often exploit system vulnerabilities to infiltrate Linux devices. They might also use misconfigured public services (FTPs, SSH, RDP) and weak credentials as entry points — or simply launch phishing attacks and supply chain attacks to infect devices.
Protection
You need strong network security to stay away from this malware.
- Use a firewall to control incoming and outgoing traffic.
- Monitor network traffic for suspicious activity.
- Install reputable antivirus software and keep it updated.
- Close unnecessary RDP ports.
- Enable multi-factor authentication where possible.
- Back up important data.
Removal
Follow these steps to remove BPFdoor from your Linux device:
- Disconnect the infected device from your network to prevent further spread.
- Delete suspicious files, processes, registry entries, and scheduled tasks created by the malware.
- Update and patch your operating system and all software.
- If possible, restore affected systems from a clean backup.
- Change the credentials that might have been compromised and enable multi-factor authentication.
- Run a full system scan to make sure no traces of the malware are left.
