HiddenWasp Linux Remote Access Trojan

HiddenWasp is a newly observed remote access trojan that makes extensive use of code from older open-source malware such as Azazel, Elknot, and Mirai.

Threat ID:: CC-3047
Category:: Trojan
Threat Severity:: Low
Threat Vector:
Published:: 30 May 2019 12:00 AM

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

Summary

HiddenWasp is a newly observed remote access trojan that makes extensive use of code from older open-source malware such as Azazel, Elknot, and Mirai.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Linux

All major Linux distributions

Threat details

At the time of publication, HiddenWasp appears to be delivered as a secondary payload. An unknown dropper will execute a bash script on a target system, which will connect to an attacker-controlled file server to download and deploy HiddenWasp.

Once installed, HiddenWasp will initiate a connection with a command and control (C2) server. All communications between HiddenWasp and the C2 server are encrypted using a hard-coded RC4 key. It will then alter environment variables to maintain persistence and disguise it's actions, before hooking into several functions in order to execute arbitrary code or extract data.

Remediation steps

Type	Step
	To prevent and detect a trojan 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. 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.

Type

Step

To prevent and detect a trojan 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.
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: 11 January 2022 9:46 am