SQLRat Remote Access Trojan

SQLRat is a remote access trojan (RAT) targeting Windows devices created by the advanced persistent threat group, FIN7. It is distributed via malicious attachments in phishing emails and can compromise an affected device.

Threat ID:: CC-2988
Category:: Trojan
Threat Severity:: Medium
Threat Vector:: Phishing
Published:: 21 March 2019 12:00 AM

Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

Summary

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows - All versions

Threat details

The RAT is embedded within a Visual Basic script, requiring users to enable macros in order to start the infection process. Two task scheduler entries are created to maintain persistence on the infected machine.

When executed the RAT connects to a FIN7-owned Microsoft database to retrieve malicious scripts contained in various SQL tables. One of these scripts is an open source Meterpreter post-exploitation tool, which can maintain a connection between FIN7 and an infected device.

Remediation steps

Type	Step
	To prevent and detect an infection, ensure that: 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.

Type

Step

To prevent and detect an infection, ensure that:

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: 14 February 2020 2:47 pm