DarkGate

 Name: DarkGate (Also known as DarkLoader)



Category: Malware

Type: Loader Malware

Primary Function: DarkGate is a multifunctional malware that primarily serves as a loader. It enables the download and execution of additional malware upon infecting a computer. Its capabilities include:
  • Credential stealing
  • Remote access to victim endpoints
  • Cryptocurrency mining
  • Serving as a downloader for other payloads like the Remcos RAT

Infection Method: Initially, DarkGate was distributed through traditional email malspam campaigns. Its delivery methods have evolved, now including distribution via messaging services like Skype and Microsoft Teams, often masquerading as innocuous files such as PDFs.

Target Platform: DarkGate targets Windows platforms. It utilizes Windows-specific APIs and system checks.

Signature Features:
  • Remote Control and Injection: Executes commands and injects payloads from a Command and Control (C&C) server.
  • Anti-Analysis Techniques: Utilizes methods to evade automated analysis, including debugger detection and system checks.
  • Obfuscation: Employs techniques like ADVobfuscator for string obfuscation.
  • Persistence Mechanisms: Achieves persistence on compromised systems through registry manipulation and script execution.

Mitigation Strategies:
  • Implement robust antivirus and anti-malware solutions with current definitions.
  • Regularly audit systems for unusual activities or unauthorized changes.
  • Educate users about safe computing practices, particularly around email and web browsing.
  • Keep all software and systems up-to-date to mitigate known vulnerabilities.

Potential Impact: DarkGate's versatile functionalities imply it can be used for various malicious purposes, from data theft to enabling further malware infections. This poses significant risks of data breaches and operational disruptions for affected organizations.

DarkGate exhibits several tactics and techniques that align with the MITRE ATT&CK framework. Based on its known capabilities, here are some of the MITRE techniques that can be associated with DarkGate:

  1. Execution (Tactic T1059): Command and Scripting Interpreter - DarkGate has been known to use scripting to execute its malicious payloads.
  2. Persistence (Tactic T1060): Registry Run Keys / Startup Folder - DarkGate may use registry modifications or startup folder placements to ensure it remains active on a compromised system after reboot.
  3. Defense Evasion (Tactic T1027): Obfuscated Files or Information - DarkGate often employs obfuscation techniques to evade detection by security software.
  4. Credential Access (Tactic T1003): OS Credential Dumping - DarkGate can extract credentials from the operating system, often through methods like dumping the contents of system memory.
  5. Discovery (Tactic T1083): File and Directory Discovery - The malware may search for specific file types or directories as part of its data harvesting routine.
  6. Lateral Movement (Tactic T1021): Remote Services - DarkGate might use various remote services to move laterally across a network once it has gained access.
  7. Command and Control (Tactic T1071): Application Layer Protocol - The malware often uses standard application layer protocols to communicate with its command-and-control servers.
  8. Exfiltration (Tactic T1041): Exfiltration Over Command and Control Channel - DarkGate is capable of exfiltrating collected data using the same channel it uses for C2 communications.

These associations with MITRE techniques help in understanding the operational capabilities of DarkGate and devising appropriate defense strategies.

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