Decoding Domain Generation Algorithms (DGAs) - Part I
Summary: Cisco Talos analyzed an executable (MD5 3D5060066056369B3449606F3E87F777) that generated several DNS queries per second to apparently random domain names, a pattern typical of malware using a domain generation algorithm. The sample dropped a second executable (MD5 577A7717AFE10AA03B07C6433AEC1845) that was packed despite PEiD reporting otherwise, and analysis showed Explorer.exe making the outbound calls through WinINet functions.
Bottom line: The DGA traffic came from Explorer.exe, a trusted system process, so blocking the random domains requires first reversing the algorithm - and until that is done, the queries look like ordinary DNS from a legitimate binary.
Read the original at Cisco Talos ↗
- Topics
- Malware
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