Category: Malware
Type: Remote access trojan (RAT), ransomware, spyware, DDoS tool
Platform: Windows
Variants: Modular, customizable payloads
Damage potential: Compromises system control, steals credentials, conducts ransomware attacks, launches DDoS operations, records keystrokes and webcam activity, and exfiltrates sensitive data.
Overview
Discovered in early 2022, Borat RAT is a sophisticated and modular malware suite that combines the functionalities of a remote access trojan, spyware, ransomware, and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attack tool. Its design allows threat actors to tailor attacks by selecting specific modules.
Cybercriminals typically distribute Borat RAT through phishing emails, malicious websites, or unreliable software downloads. Attackers use these vectors to deliver a package containing the RAT’s builder binary, supporting modules, and a server certificate. This setup enables attackers to customize and deploy payloads suited to their specific objectives.
Upon successful infection, Borat RAT establishes a communication channel with its command-and-control (C2) server, granting attackers remote control. A notable feature is its dashboard, offering a unified interface to execute diverse malicious activities, including typical RAT functions, ransomware deployment, and DDoS attacks.
Possible symptoms
One of the clearest symptoms of a Borat RAT infection is receiving a ransom note. Apart from that, the malware can significantly impact system performance and security by providing unauthorized remote access to attackers, stealing sensitive information, and launching malicious activities like DDoS operations. Possible symptoms of a Borat RAT infection include:
- Sluggish or unresponsive system performance due to resource consumption from RAT activities.
- Unusual network activity, including unexpected outbound connections or traffic floods indicative of DDoS attacks.
- Increased CPU or memory usage from running keyloggers, remote access, or data exfiltration processes.
- Unknown or suspicious processes running on the system, often with names that resemble legitimate system services.
- Unauthorized access attempts or modifications to system files and settings.
- Difficulty detecting or terminating malicious processes due to the RAT’s use of process hollowing or other evasion techniques.
- Suspicious activity related to file encryption, ransom notes, or other ransomware-like behavior.
Sources of the infection
Threat actors typically distribute Borat RAT through:
- Phishing emails that include malicious attachments or links leading to malware execution.
- Malicious websites offering cracked software or deceptive downloads.
- Peer-to-peer networks where criminals share files containing the malware payload.
- Compromised software that you download from unreliable sources bundled with the Borat RAT.
Protection
The best way to protect against Borat RAT is to implement strong security measures across your systems and networks. Effective protection strategies include:
- Using antivirus and anti-malware software. Install and regularly update reliable security solutions that include detection for RATs, ransomware, and other malicious threats targeting Windows environments.
- Regularly updating systems and software. Keep your operating system, applications, and security tools up to date to patch vulnerabilities that Borat RAT may exploit.
- Improving network security. Configure firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and endpoint protection to block suspicious traffic, especially from untrusted or unknown IP addresses, and prevent unauthorized access to critical systems.
- Restricting administrative access. Restrict administrative privileges by enforcing strict access controls, using strong authentication, and limiting access to sensitive systems to authorized users only.
- Disabling unnecessary services. Turn off unused or unnecessary network services, such as file-sharing services, or ports that may expose systems to attack.
- Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA). Use MFA to secure critical accounts, particularly those with remote access or administrative privileges, to prevent unauthorized access.
- Monitoring system and network activity. Use logging and monitoring tools to detect unusual activities such as unauthorized login attempts, unexpected file changes, or high CPU usage, which could indicate the presence of Borat RAT.
- Using trusted cyberprotection tools. NordVPN’s Threat Protection Pro™ tool warns you if you’re about to access a malicious website and blocks malicious downloads, making it easier to avoid threats like Borat RAT.
- Educating yourself about phishing threats. Since Borat RAT is commonly spread through phishing emails, learning to recognize phishing attempts and avoiding downloading malicious attachments can help reduce the risk of infection.
Removal of Borat RAT
To remove Borat RAT, first isolate the infected system from the network to prevent further spread. Then, use trusted antivirus or anti-malware tools to scan for and remove the RAT and any associated components. Check for persistence mechanisms, such as altered startup entries, that could allow reinfection.
If possible, restore the system from a clean backup and update all credentials, especially administrative ones. Finally, monitor the system closely for any signs of reinfection or lateral movement. If issues persist, consult cybersecurity experts for assistance.
