Malware analysis is the process of examining malicious software to understand its functionality, behavior, and impact. It helps cybersecurity professionals develop detection strategies, identify indicators of compromise (IoCs), and strengthen defense mechanisms.
1. Types of Malware Analysis
1.1 Static Analysis
- Analyzing the malware file without executing it.
- Inspecting file metadata, strings, and code structure.
- Tools used: PEiD, Binwalk, ExaBGP, YARA Rules
1.2 Dynamic Analysis
- Executing malware in a controlled environment (sandbox) to observe its behavior.
- Monitoring system calls, network activity, and file modifications.
- Tools used: Cuckoo Sandbox, REMnux, Process Monitor
1.3 Behavioral Analysis
- Studying how malware interacts with the operating system and network.
- Detecting registry changes, file system modifications, and network communications.
- Tools used: Wireshark, Sysinternals Suite, Volatility Framework
1.4 Code Analysis (Reverse Engineering)
- Disassembling or decompiling the malware code to understand its logic and obfuscation techniques.
- Tools used: IDA Pro, Ghidra, Radare2
2. Malware Analysis Workflow
Step 1: Environment Preparation
- Set up isolated virtual machines or sandboxes to prevent malware from escaping.
- Disable internet access or use simulated network environments.
Step 2: Static Analysis
- Extract file hashes (e.g., MD5, SHA-256).
- Use tools like Strings, PE Explorer, or Detect It Easy (DIE) to check for embedded code and libraries.
Step 3: Dynamic Analysis
- Execute the malware in a sandbox and monitor processes and network traffic.
- Capture behavioral logs and identify persistence mechanisms (e.g., registry keys, scheduled tasks).
Step 4: Network Traffic Analysis
- Use Wireshark or TCPDump to inspect C2 (Command and Control) communication.
- Identify IP addresses, domain names, and protocols used.
Step 5: Reverse Engineering
- Decompile or disassemble the binary.
- Analyze obfuscated code, encryption methods, and exploits.
3. Malware Analysis Tools
| Tool | Type | Purpose |
|---|---|---|
| Cuckoo Sandbox | Dynamic Analysis | Malware execution and behavior monitoring |
| IDA Pro | Code Analysis | Disassembler and debugger |
| Wireshark | Network Analysis | Packet capturing and traffic analysis |
| YARA | Static Analysis | Signature-based detection |
| Volatility Framework | Memory Analysis | Forensic analysis of RAM dumps |
4. Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)
- File hashes (MD5, SHA-1, SHA-256)
- Malicious IP addresses and domains
- Registry modifications
- Process injections
- Network communication patterns
5. Challenges in Malware Analysis
- Advanced obfuscation techniques (e.g., polymorphism, packing).
- Anti-debugging and anti-sandbox mechanisms.
- Handling encrypted payloads and self-modifying code.