Parasite HTTP Remote Access Trojan

Parasite HTTP is a remote access trojan (RAT) that is sold on underground markets. It steals information and creates a backdoor for remote control of affected devices.

Threat ID:: CC-2564
Category:
Threat Severity:: Medium
Threat Vector:
Published:: 2 August 2018 12:00 AM

Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

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Summary

Parasite HTTP is a remote access trojan (RAT) that is sold on underground markets. It steals information and creates a backdoor for remote control of affected devices.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows - all versions

Threat details

At the time of publication, Parasite HTTP has been distributed via spam email campaigns targeted towards certain industries including healthcare. The emails include Word document attachments such as fake CVs that contain malicious macros. When the macros are enabled, the RAT is downloaded and executed.

Parasite HTTP employs a wide range of techniques to avoid analysis including sandbox detection, anti-debugging and anti-emulation methods. It includes modules that can control the user's desktop, alter user accounts and steal information including passwords. Infected devices can be instructed to download additional modules, so the capabilities of the RAT can be extended in future.

Remediation advice

To prevent and detect a trojan infection, ensure that:

Remediation steps

Type	Step
	A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails. All operating systems, anti-virus and other security products are kept up-to-date. All day-to-day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts. Strong password policies are in place. Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity. User accounts accessed from affected devices should be reset on a clean computer. Your organisation adopts a holistic all-round approach to Cyber Security as advocated by the 10 Steps to Cyber Security.

Type

Step

A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails.
All operating systems, anti-virus and other security products are kept up-to-date.
All day-to-day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts.
Strong password policies are in place.
Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity.
User accounts accessed from affected devices should be reset on a clean computer.
Your organisation adopts a holistic all-round approach to Cyber Security as advocated by the 10 Steps to Cyber Security.

Last edited: 17 February 2020 12:52 pm