Skip to main content

GoBrut Botnet

GoBrut (also known as StealthWorker) is a newly observed worm and botnet written in the Go programming language.

Threat ID:
CC-2957
Category:
Botnet
Threat Severity:
Low
Threat Vector:
Insecure network
Published:
5 March 2019 12:00 AM
Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

Summary

GoBrut (also known as StealthWorker) is a newly observed worm and botnet written in the Go programming language.

Threat details

At the time of publication, it is unclear how GoBrut is intially distributed, although there are unconfirmed reports indicating it may delivered manually using exploits for known vulnerabilities in the PhpMyAdmin tool.

Once installed, GoBrut will connect to a command and control (C2) server before executing a module called 'StartBrut'. This module will attempt to gain access to other systems or devices on the network. If successful, it will install a copy of itself on these devices before scanning for other vulnerable devices on the Internet. It will then send the IP addresses of any identified devices back to the C2 server.

Update  

A new GoBrut variant has been observed being delivered as an ELF file that is able to target Unix systems.

Remediation steps

Type Step

To prevent and detect an infection, ensure that:

  • 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.
  • Regular anti-virus and security scans are performed on your organisation’s estate.
  • 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: 14 February 2020 2:53 pm