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Coldroot Cross-Platform RAT

Coldroot is an open-source, multi-platform remote access trojan (RAT). Initially created to target macOS devices, its source code was posted on the GitHub software repository service in 2016.
Threat ID:
CC-2082
Category:
Trojan
Threat Severity:
Medium
Threat Vector:
Phishing, Download
Published:
1 March 2018 12:00 AM
Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

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This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information. Use of this information contained in this page is at your own risk

Summary

Coldroot is an open-source, multi-platform remote access trojan (RAT). Initially created to target macOS devices, its source code was posted on the GitHub software repository service in 2016.

Threat details

At this point other users added the capability to compromise Windows and Linux operating systems (OS).

Distribution is dependant on the targeted OS. On macOS devices Coldroot has been observed disguised as an unsigned Apple audio driver whilst Windows versions are delivered using phishing emails and malicious macro documents. Presently it is unclear how Linux devices are compromised.

Once installed, Coldroot establishes communications with its command & control infrastructure before disabling security services and altering registry entries to ensure persistence across reboots. Coldroot has the following capabilities:

  • List, rename or delete files and directories
  • List, execute and kill processes
  • Download and upload files
  • Take and stream screen captures
  • Shutdown the system

Remediation advice

To prevent and detect a trojan infection, ensure that:

Remediation steps

Type Step
  • A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails.
  • All operating systems, antivirus and other security products are kept up to date.
  • All day to day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts.
  • Strong password policies are in place and password reuse is discouraged.
  • Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity.
  • User accounts accessed from infected machines should be reset on a clean computer.

Last edited: 17 February 2020 12:41 pm