Malware Analysis Questions Long
There are several methods used to analyze web-based malware. These methods can help in understanding the behavior, functionality, and impact of the malware. Some of the commonly used methods are:
1. Static Analysis: This method involves examining the code and structure of the malware without executing it. It includes analyzing the HTML, JavaScript, CSS, and other components of the web page or application. Static analysis helps in identifying suspicious or malicious code patterns, hidden URLs, obfuscated code, and other indicators of malware presence.
2. Dynamic Analysis: Dynamic analysis involves executing the malware in a controlled environment, such as a virtual machine or sandbox, to observe its behavior. This method helps in understanding the actions performed by the malware, such as network communication, file system modifications, registry changes, and interaction with other processes. Dynamic analysis can provide insights into the malware's capabilities, payload, and potential impact.
3. Network Traffic Analysis: This method focuses on analyzing the network traffic generated by the malware. It involves capturing and inspecting the network packets exchanged between the infected system and external servers. Network traffic analysis helps in identifying communication protocols, command and control (C2) servers, data exfiltration attempts, and other malicious activities. It can also reveal the URLs or domains associated with the malware.
4. Behavioral Analysis: Behavioral analysis involves monitoring the behavior of the malware during execution. It focuses on understanding the actions performed by the malware, such as creating or modifying files, spawning processes, injecting code into legitimate processes, and manipulating system settings. Behavioral analysis helps in identifying the intentions and capabilities of the malware, as well as its impact on the infected system.
5. Code Reversing: Code reversing involves analyzing the binary or source code of the malware to understand its inner workings. This method requires expertise in reverse engineering techniques and tools. Code reversing helps in uncovering the logic, algorithms, encryption mechanisms, and anti-analysis techniques employed by the malware. It can provide valuable insights into the malware's functionality and help in developing countermeasures.
6. Memory Analysis: Memory analysis involves examining the memory of the infected system to identify malware artifacts and activities. It includes analyzing running processes, loaded modules, injected code, and other memory structures. Memory analysis can help in detecting rootkits, process hollowing, code injection, and other advanced malware techniques that reside in memory. It can also reveal encryption keys, passwords, and other sensitive information used by the malware.
7. Reputation Analysis: Reputation analysis involves checking the reputation of URLs, domains, IP addresses, and files associated with the web-based malware. It includes querying threat intelligence databases, antivirus engines, and other security sources to determine if the malware has been previously identified and analyzed. Reputation analysis helps in assessing the level of risk associated with the malware and can aid in prioritizing the analysis efforts.
These methods are often used in combination to obtain a comprehensive understanding of web-based malware. Each method has its strengths and limitations, and the choice of analysis method depends on the specific goals, resources, and expertise available for the analysis.