ProtonBot Dropper Trojan

First observed in early 2019, ProtonBot is a modular C-- based dropper offered for sale on several dark web sites.

Threat ID:: CC-3075
Category:: Trojan
Threat Severity:: Medium
Threat Vector:: Email spam
Published:: 30 May 2019 12:00 AM

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

Summary

First observed in early 2019, ProtonBot is a modular C-- based dropper offered for sale on several dark web sites.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows - All versions

Threat details

Unlike most dropper-as-a-service malware, ProtonBot appears to be sold as a pre-packed sample, complete with command and control (C2) panel, directly to attackers.

At the time of publication, ProtonBot has only been observed being distributed via spam campaigns. However, each attacker may choose their own delivery method, raising the possibility of other vectors being used in the future.

Once delivered, a small script is used to extract and decrypt the primary ProtonBot module, which will then connect to an attacker-specified C2 server before collecting system information. It will then download and install any additional modules or payloads. ProtonBot can also execute batch, PowerShell and Visual Basic script as well as HTML code.

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: 14 February 2020 2:45 pm