PeaRAT Remote Access Trojan

First observed in 2015, PeaRAT is a remote access trojan (RAT) based on the older Dark Comet RAT.

Threat ID:: CC-2642
Category:: Trojan
Threat Severity:: Medium
Threat Vector:: Phishing
Published:: 30 August 2018 12:00 AM

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

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Summary

First observed in 2015, PeaRAT is a remote access trojan (RAT) based on the older Dark Comet RAT.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows – All versions

Threat details

PeaRAT is distributed via phishing campaigns using attachments containing an encrypted copy of PeaZIP, a popular file archiving tool. This file is then decrypted and automatically executed to install PeaRAT.

Once on a device, PeaRAT will launch a child process within the user's Music folder (if available) before writing the IP address of its command and control server to the device's memory. It will then begin exfiltrating user data from the device but can also alter processes and install secondary malware.

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