DanaBot Triage

The DanaBot Stealer is a sophisticated multi-stage malware that operates as a Malware-as-a-Service (MaaS) platform, posing significant risks to both organizations and individuals. Here's a detailed analysis of its operations and capabilities:

Functionality and Distribution: DanaBot is a stealthy malware designed for long-term persistence and data theft, rather than immediate financial gain like ransomware. It's distributed via advanced phishing campaigns and uses various methods for evasion and successful compromise. The malware utilizes obfuscated JavaScript for downloading and executing payloads, with the initial stage payload typically delivered through Discord CDN, a service perceived as legitimate, aiding in evading detection.

Multi-Level Infection Process: DanaBot's deployment involves multiple stages, each using different sources for payload delivery. The first stage involves a malicious JavaScript file designed to avoid static detections. This script initiates PowerShell commands to download a second-stage malware, typically a Windows executable file. This file then connects to an FTP server controlled by the threat actor to download further malicious files.

Data Exfiltration and System Interception: In later stages, the malware focuses on system reconnaissance, gathering information on installed software, financial data, and profiling the compromised system. The malware eventually exfiltrates the collected data over an encrypted connection and modifies system proxy settings to intercept communication. This process indicates a comprehensive approach to harvesting a wide range of sensitive data from compromised systems.

Capabilities of DanaBot Stealer: DanaBot is particularly adept at stealing credentials from web browsers, harvesting data from various applications, and intercepting network communication. It targets financial data, including saved credit card details and cryptocurrency wallets, and uses the Windows registry for persistence. This level of functionality demonstrates the malware's adaptability and its potential for extensive data theft.

Defensive Measures: To defend against DanaBot Stealer, it's crucial to exercise caution with email attachments and links, even from seemingly trustworthy sources. Strengthening system, network, and application security, employing up-to-date anti-malware software, and implementing adaptive organizational security policies are key to mitigating the risk of infection. Regular updates and vigilance against sophisticated phishing campaigns are essential for protection against this evolving threat.

In conclusion, DanaBot Stealer exemplifies the increasing sophistication of cyber threats, particularly those employing the MaaS model. Its ability to discreetly infiltrate systems and extract sensitive data underscores the need for robust cybersecurity measures and continuous vigilance in the digital landscape.

IoC

SHA256

• 77ff83cc49d6c1b71c474a17eeaefad0f0a71df0a938190bf9a9a7e22531c292
• 7417ee2722871b2c667174acc43dd3e79fcdd41bef9a48209eeae0ed43179e1f
• 2a3acdcd76575762b18c18c644a745125f55ce121f742d2aad962521bc7f25fd

SHA1

• b6004c62e2d9dbad9cfd5f7e18647ac983788766
• 6bf666690a7f906fbcd5dfca1bd449b85deda11a

MD5

• de8b54a938ac18f15cad804d79a0e19d
• a86949c7e1b496f78ea9b2139470fb68

REFERENCES

• https://www.cyfirma.com/outofband/danabot-stealer-a-multistage-maas-malware-re-emerges-with-reduced-detectability/
• https://otx.alienvault.com/pulse/657084bd049779d60bad9a49

TAGS

dword, danabot, int8, cactus