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Zacinlo Rootkit Adware

First observed in 2012, Zacinlo is an adware trojan that uses rootkit-like functionality to gain persistence across operating system re-installation.
Threat ID:
CC-2497
Category:
Adware, Trojan
Threat Severity:
Medium
Threat Vector:
Download
Published:
20 June 2018 12:00 AM
Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

This content has been archived

This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.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

First observed in 2012, Zacinlo is an adware trojan that uses rootkit-like functionality to gain persistence across operating system re-installation.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

  • Microsoft Windows - Versions 7, 8, 8.1 and 10

Threat details

At the time of publication, Zacinlo is delivered through a seemingly legitimate VPN application. When installed this application instead acts as a proxy and downloader, initiating communications with a command and control server (C2) and retrieving the malware packages.

When installed, Zacinlo's modules provide it with a wide range of capabilities including:

  • advert injection using man-in-the-middle attacks over HTTPS
  • redirect users to malicious sites
  • remove other other malware to ensure Zacinlo remains functional
  • accept remote commands from a C2 server
  • install and remove other applications
  • load headless browser windows to
  • collect system and user information including screen captures

Zacinlo's rootkit module is also used to prevent or disable processes deemed dangerous to its operation, such as anti-virus programs or security services.

For further information:

Remediation advice

To prevent and detect an 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, anti-virus 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.
  • Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity.
  • User accounts accessed from affected devices should be reset on a clean computer.
  • Your organisation adopts a holistic all-round approach to Cyber Security as advocated by the 10 Steps to Cyber Security.

Last edited: 9 October 2020 1:52 pm