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Linux Cryptomining Trojan using Rootkits

A new cryptocurrency mining trojan has been observed targeting Linux devices. It is utilising rootkits to avoid detection.
Threat ID:
CC-2786
Category:
Rootkit, Trojan
Threat Severity:
Medium
Threat Vector:
Download
Published:
13 November 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This content has been archived

This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.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

A new cryptocurrency mining trojan has been observed targeting Linux devices. It is utilising rootkits to avoid detection.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Linux

  • Linux Distributions

Threat details

At the time of publication, it is not known what software is installing the malware. However, it is believed to stem from an unofficial or compromised plugin such as media-streaming software. Once installed, the program will download and execute a series of shell scripts. An initial ELF file downloads and executes the first shell script, which then downloads and executes another shell script. The second script downloads and installs the miner and rootkit.

When running, the miner will utilise 100% CPU but users will not be able to detect which process is using it. The rootkit blocks the access of the process monitoring tools to the files located in the /proc/{PID} directories, resulting in the processes indicative of cryptocurrency mining malware being hidden.

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.
  • Regular anti-virus and security scans are performed on your organisation’s estate.
  • 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: 17 February 2020 12:47 pm