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Find out how Beep malware can bypass your security system, what it can do, and how you can protect your business.
Cybersecurity experts at Minerva recently made an amazing discovery of a new malware tagged with Beep, which has the capabilities to evade detection and analysis by security software. The cybersecurity organization discovered Beep after samples were uploaded to VirusTotal.
How Beep works to evade detection
While Beep is still in the early stages of development and still lacks some key malware attack capabilities, Minerva’s report shows that it can allow attackers to download and inject additional payloads onto infected systems using three main components: a dropper, a injector and a payload.
The differentiating factor between Beep and other malware is its ability to evade detection using unique evasion techniques. For example, Beep uses sandbox evasion techniques to bypass sandbox security systems used to test suspicious programs for malware activity. Beep also uses encryption techniques to disguise its malicious activities, making it even more difficult to detect.
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In addition, Beep uses a mix of other methods including dynamic string obfuscation, assembler implementation, system language check, anti-debugging NtGlobalFlag field, RDTSC instruction, and Beep API’s anti-sandboxing feature.
The main concern with Beep malware revolves around its potential impact on businesses if left undetected. As with any other malware, the goal is most likely to steal sensitive information such as login credentials and financial information.
A Minerva Labs researcher, Natalie Zargarov, commented, “It seemed like the creators of this malware were trying to install as many anti-debugging and anti-VM (anti-sandbox) tactics as they could find.”
How companies can defend against a beep malware attack
Beep can be armed by cyber criminals to launch ransomware attack. Here are the top steps organizations can take to mitigate this security risk.
Strengthen Endpoints
Organizations must prioritize security when configuring their systems. By implementing secure configuration settings, you can reduce your organization’s attack surface and eliminate any security vulnerabilities resulting from misconfigurations.
The CIS benchmarks offer an excellent option for organizations that want to adopt industry-leading configuration standards developed by consensus. Large companies such as AWS, IBM and Microsoft are proponents of the CIS benchmarks for secure configurations.
Check the port settings
Numerous ransomware variants exploit Remote Desktop Protocol port 3389 and Server Message Block port 445. Decide if your organization needs to keep these ports open and restrict connections to trusted hosts.
Analyze these settings for both on-premises and cloud environments and work with your cloud service provider to disable unused RDP ports.
Set up an intruder alarm system
To identify potentially malicious activity, organizations can use an intrusion detection system that matches network traffic logs with signatures that identify known malicious behavior. A reliable IDS should update its signatures regularly and immediately notify your company when it detects possible malicious activity.
Keep software up to date
Another important step in preventing the possibility of a Beep or other malware attack is to ensure that all software and operating systems are up to date with the latest security patches and updates. Cyber criminals often exploit vulnerabilities in older software versions to gain access to systems. So by keeping everything up to date, you can minimize these risks.
Use anti-virus and anti-malware software
Robust antivirus and anti-malware software can help prevent ransomware attacks. Although Beep has demonstrated an incredible ability to evade detection, it remains crucial for businesses to have anti-malware software programs installed on their systems.
Quality antivirus and anti-malware software can help detect and isolate malware before it can do any harm. It can also provide additional layers of protection against other types of cyber threats.
Implement strong password policies
Weak passwords can be a major security vulnerability, so implementing strong password policies can help prevent unauthorized access to systems and data. This can include requiring complex passwords, changing passwords regularly, and using multi-factor authentication to add an extra layer of security.
Educate employees about ransomware
It’s important to educate employees about the risks of ransomware attacks and identify potential threats. This may include cyber psychology or human factors training and other organization-specific security training on how to recognize phishing emails and other types of social engineering attacks, as well as guidance on best practices for dealing with suspicious emails and other communications.
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