Malware Analysis Questions Long
There are several common techniques used to analyze malware, which are essential for understanding its behavior, purpose, and potential impact. These techniques can be broadly categorized into static analysis and dynamic analysis.
1. Static Analysis:
Static analysis involves examining the malware without executing it. This technique includes the following sub-techniques:
a) File Analysis: Analyzing the malware file itself, including its structure, headers, and metadata. This can be done using tools like file format parsers, hex editors, and disassemblers.
b) Code Analysis: Disassembling the malware code to understand its instructions, functions, and logic. This can be achieved using disassemblers, decompilers, and debuggers.
c) String Analysis: Extracting and analyzing strings within the malware code, which can reveal important information such as URLs, IP addresses, encryption keys, or command and control (C2) server details.
d) Signature Analysis: Comparing the malware against known signatures or patterns to identify its type or family. This can be done using antivirus or intrusion detection systems (IDS) signatures.
e) Behavior Analysis: Analyzing the potential behavior of the malware based on its code, such as file system modifications, registry changes, network communication, or process injection.
2. Dynamic Analysis:
Dynamic analysis involves executing the malware in a controlled environment to observe its behavior and interactions. This technique includes the following sub-techniques:
a) Sandbox Analysis: Running the malware in a virtualized or isolated environment, known as a sandbox, to monitor its activities. This can help identify malicious actions, such as file creation, network connections, or system modifications.
b) Network Traffic Analysis: Capturing and analyzing the network traffic generated by the malware during execution. This can reveal communication with C2 servers, data exfiltration, or exploitation attempts.
c) System Monitoring: Monitoring the system's behavior during malware execution, such as process creation, registry modifications, or DLL injections. Tools like process monitors, system monitors, or behavior analysis tools can assist in this analysis.
d) Memory Analysis: Analyzing the malware's presence in the system's memory, including injected code, hooks, or malicious processes. This can be done using memory analysis tools or debuggers.
e) Reverse Engineering: Decompiling or reverse engineering the malware code to understand its inner workings, algorithms, or encryption techniques. This can be achieved using tools like disassemblers, decompilers, or debuggers.
It is important to note that these techniques are not mutually exclusive, and a combination of static and dynamic analysis is often required to gain a comprehensive understanding of the malware's capabilities and potential impact. Additionally, the use of specialized tools and expertise in malware analysis is crucial for effective analysis.