Also known as: Arechclient2
Category: Malware
Type: Remote access trojan
Platform: Windows
Damage potential: Data theft, remote control and surveillance, system profiling
Overview
SectopRAT, or ArechClient2, is a remote access trojan (RAT) developed on the .NET platform that has a wide range of capabilities and is known for being highly evasive. This malware can profile systems, steal browser and crypto-wallet data, and create hidden secondary desktops. Using cloned desktops, hackers can remotely control browser sessions and manipulate victims' web activity without their knowledge.
Cybersecurity experts often find it challenging to analyze SectopRAT behavior because it has anti-virtual machine (VM) and anti-emulator functionalities. It also uses AES-256 encryption for command and control (C2) server communication. SectopRAT often disguises itself as a legitimate software installer or can infect devices through other payloads, such as bots or drive-by downloads.
Active since 2019, SectopRAT is continuously updated with new features and has the potential to capture screens and gain full-screen control in the near future.
Possible symptoms
The common symptoms of a SectopRAT infection are:
- System slowdowns, crashes, and freezes.
- Unusual network activity.
- Unauthorized file modifications.
- Hidden desktop and browser sessions and lost browser histories.
- Unrecognized changes in the desktop environment or settings.
Sources of the infection
SectopRAT typically spreads through drive-by downloads that come with malware disguised as legitimate software. Cybercriminals often use malvertising to distribute this malware to a wider audience.
SectopRAT can also infect devices through exploit kits, phishing emails with malicious attachments or links, and compromised websites that redirect users to pages hosting malware. In addition, hackers often exploit vulnerabilities in various remote access services to install SectopRAT.
Protection
Always browse with caution to protect yourself from SectopRAT.
- Update your software and apps to the latest version to close possible vulnerabilities.
- Don't click on suspicious links or attachments, especially from unknown senders.
- Avoid downloads from unofficial sources.
- Scan downloads for malware, block malware-hosting websites, and stop malicious ads with NordVPN's Threat Protection Pro™ feature.
- Disable remote access services you don't use or limit their access only to trusted IP addresses.
- Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for remote access services to avoid takeovers by cybercriminals.
- Use special tools to monitor unusual outbound traffic to catch SectopRAT communicating with C2 servers.
Removal
If you think you might have SectopRAT on your device, you need to act promptly:
- Disconnect your device from the internet to prevent SectopRAT from communicating with its command and control server.
- Boot into safe mode.
- Run a full system scan using a reputable antivirus solution.
- Follow the instructions provided by your antivirus software to isolate and remove the malware.
Consult an IT professional if you don’t feel confident handling the removal yourself.
