Rafel RAT (Trojan) – Malware

Overview

Android, the world’s most prevalent mobile operating system, is a testament to Google’s vision of an open and customizable digital environment. Its flexibility and accessibility have made it a favored platform for billions of users, granting them unparalleled control over their mobile devices. However, this same openness creates fertile ground for malicious activities.

Android malware, which encompasses a range of threats including viruses, Trojans, ransomware, spyware, and adware, threatens the privacy, security, and data integrity of its users. This diversity in threats, coupled with increasingly sophisticated attack methods, highlights the urgent need for robust understanding and countermeasures against Android malware.

Targets

Individuals.
Information.
Public Administration.

How they operate

At its core, Rafel RAT employs a multi-faceted approach to gain initial access and execute its payload. The malware primarily infiltrates systems through phishing campaigns, where deceptive emails lure victims into downloading malicious attachments or clicking on harmful links. Once executed, Rafel RAT leverages command and scripting interpreters to perform various operations on the infected device. It may use scripting languages or command-line instructions to maintain its persistence and execute further malicious activities, such as establishing a command-and-control (C&C) connection.

Persistence mechanisms are crucial for Rafel RAT’s long-term success. The malware often modifies startup items or integrates itself into system configurations to ensure it remains active even after system reboots. By requesting elevated permissions or exploiting existing vulnerabilities, Rafel RAT can escalate its privileges, gaining deeper control over the compromised system. This capability allows it to bypass security measures and execute its payload with minimal restrictions.

One of Rafel RAT’s defining features is its ability to evade detection and maintain stealth. The malware uses various obfuscation techniques, including encryption and packing, to hide its presence and avoid detection by security solutions. It manipulates system indicators and performs actions to conceal its activities from both users and security tools. For instance, it might alter system notifications or delete traces of its execution to further evade forensic analysis.

In terms of functionality, Rafel RAT excels in data collection and exfiltration. It captures sensitive information, such as SMS messages, call logs, and contacts, using input capture techniques. The malware may also employ data from information repositories to gather additional valuable information. Communication with its C&C server occurs over standard application layer protocols, such as HTTP or HTTPS, which helps Rafel RAT blend in with normal network traffic and avoid raising suspicion.

Finally, Rafel RAT demonstrates its impact through various means. It may engage in activities such as encrypting files to extort ransom or locking the screen to demand payment from victims. The malware’s versatility and technical sophistication highlight its potential for significant disruption and damage.

MITRE Tactics and Techniques

Initial Access:

Phishing (T1566): Rafel RAT spreads via phishing campaigns that use deceptive tactics to manipulate user trust and exploit their interactions.

Execution:

Command and Scripting Interpreter (T1059): The malware may execute commands or scripts as part of its operations, such as executing commands on the infected device.

Application Layer Protocol (T1071): Rafel RAT communicates with its command-and-control (C&C) server using HTTP/HTTPS protocols.

Persistence:

Startup Item (T1547.001): The malware ensures its persistence by requesting to be added to the allowlist or bypassing optimization processes to prevent uninstallation.

Privilege Escalation:

Abuse Elevation Control Mechanism (T1548): The RAT may request device admin rights or other permissions to gain elevated access.

Defense Evasion:

Obfuscated Files or Information (T1027): The malware uses various evasion techniques, including encryption and packing, to avoid detection.

Indicator Removal on Host (T1070): The malware attempts to hide its presence and evade detection by manipulating system notifications and other mechanisms.

Credential Access:

Input Capture (T1056): The RAT captures sensitive information such as SMS messages and two-factor authentication codes.

Account Discovery (T1087): The RAT may retrieve contact details and other application data, aiding in further exploitation.

Discovery:

System Information Discovery (T1082): The RAT gathers information about the device, including its model, version, and other specifications.

Lateral Movement:

Internal Spearphishing (T1534): By exfiltrating contacts and other sensitive information, the RAT may facilitate lateral movement within an organization.

Collection:

Data from Information Repositories (T1213): The malware exfiltrates data from various repositories, including contacts, SMS messages, and call logs.

Screen Capture (T1113): While not explicitly mentioned, the RAT’s capabilities could extend to capturing screenshots or screen activity.

Exfiltration:

Exfiltration Over Command and Control Channel (T1041): The RAT exfiltrates data back to its C&C server over its communication channels.

Impact:

Data Encrypted for Impact (T1486): In its ransomware variant, the RAT encrypts files on the device to demand a ransom.

Lock Screen (T1543.003): The RAT can lock the screen and change device settings to create a ransom note.

References:

• Rafel RAT, Android Malware from Espionage to Ransomware Operations