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FlawedAmmyy

Also known as: No known aliases

Category: Malware

Type: Remote access trojan (RAT)

Platform: Windows

Variants: No known variants

Damage potential: FlawedAmmyy has a high damage potential that typically includes taking remote control of the infected system, exfiltrating data, and facilitating further attacks such as ransomware attacks or network reconnaissance.

Overview

FlawedAmmyy is a remote access trojan (RAT) based on the legitimate Ammyy Admin remote access software, which is used for remote control and diagnostics on Microsoft Windows machines. This malware is attributed to the TA505 cybercriminal group, known for its extensive campaigns targeting various sectors globally. TA505 has a history of using a range of malware to achieve their goals, including data theft and financial gain.

Once installed, the malware allows attackers to control the infected machine or system remotely, exfiltrate data, monitor user activity, and distribute additional malicious payloads. The FlawedAmmyy RAT is capable of keylogging, screen capturing, file manipulation, and command execution, which is why hackers use this tool for cyber espionage and theft.

FlawedAmmyy primarily spreads through spear-phishing attacks. Hackers create convincing emails that often contain malicious attachments or links. The objective of these emails is to trick the recipient into downloading and executing the malware. The attachments may come in the form of malicious documents, executables, or links leading to compromised websites hosting the malware. Once you interact with these elements, FlawedAmmyy silently creeps into your system.

When FlawedAmmyy sneaks into your device, it establishes a connection with a command and control server that the attackers control. This connection allows the cybercriminals to:

  • Remotely control the infected machine.
  • Steal credentials, financial information, and other valuable data.
  • Deploy additional malware.
  • Alter or delete files, modify system configurations, and create or terminate processes.

Possible symptoms

FlawedAmmyy typically slows down your computer performance because it runs additional malicious processes in the background, such as downloading and executing further payloads or collecting and transmitting system information. Other possible symptoms include:

  • Unexpected system crashes.
  • Increased use of disk space.
  • Emails being sent from your account without your knowledge.
  • Unexpected pop-ups or error messages.
  • Changes to browser settings or new toolbars.
  • Slow or unresponsive system performance.
  • Unauthorized changes in system settings.
  • Unknown processes in the task manager that you didn’t initiate.
  • Spikes in network activity.
  • Turned off security programs.
  • Inability to access certain websites.
  • Unauthorized access or changes to files.
  • Unexplained usage of system resources, such as CPU or memory.
  • Unusual system behaviors, like the mouse moving on its own or unexpected commands being executed.
  • Inability to update the operating system or security software.

Sources of infection

FlawedAmmyy malware primarily spreads through phishing emails that contain malicious attachments or links. These emails often look legitimate, tricking you into opening the attachment or clicking the link, which then downloads and installs the malware.

Another entry point is through drive-by downloads, where it’s enough for you to visit an infected website to have the malware automatically downloaded and installed on your device without your knowledge.

Hackers sometimes spread FlawedAmmyy via compromised software or hardware. They may embed the malware into software updates or free downloads from untrusted sources. Once installed, these programs act as trojans, providing a backdoor for the FlawedAmmyy malware to infiltrate your system.

Attackers might also exploit network vulnerabilities, such as weak or outdated security measures, to gain access and deploy the malware. This method allows them to infiltrate networks and distribute FlawedAmmyy across multiple devices within the network.

Protection

The most effective way to protect against FlawedAmmyy is to educate yourself about malware and online threats, such as phishing attacks. Other countermeasures against FlawedAmmyy include:

  • Using antivirus software. Purchase and install reputable antivirus software with real-time protection to prevent FlawedAmmyy.
  • Regularly updating your programs. Keep your operating system, browsers, and all applications up to date to patch known vulnerabilities.
  • Using Threat Protection Pro. Purchase NordVPN with the advanced Threat Protection Pro feature, which blocks malicious ads and suspicious sites and scans files for malware as you download them.
  • Filtering email. Use advanced email filtering solutions to block phishing emails and malicious attachments.
  • Avoiding suspicious links and attachments. Never click on unfamiliar links or suspicious attachments, especially from unknown senders.
  • Implementing network security. Set up firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection to detect and prevent FlawedAmmyy.
  • Using a password manager. Never keep your passwords written in plain text on your computer. Use a trusted password manager like NordPass, which allows you to store all your credentials under one master password.
  • Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). MFA adds an extra layer of security to your accounts.
  • Monitoring network traffic. Use network monitoring tools to detect unusual activity that may indicate a malware infection.

Removal of FlawedAmmyy

If you suspect that FlawedAmmyy has infected your system, immediately disconnect your device from the internet to cut any communication with the malware’s command and control servers. Then restart your computer in safe mode to limit the malware’s ability to function.

Run a full antivirus scan with a reputable antivirus program to detect and remove the malware. Follow the steps recommended by the antivirus software to ensure thorough removal of FlawedAmmyy.

Once you have removed FlawedAmmyy from your system, change all your online account passwords to protect your data. Use strong, unique passwords for each account. If the malware persists or you cannot remove it completely, contact a cybersecurity professional for help.