In the current cybersecurity threat landscape, most botnets propagate via exploits and file-based malware. Anything that touches the disk has the ability to be blocked via access controls on the host. However, new malware techniques utilize more than just binaries to execute malicious code, demanding the need for execution control. Kurstis Armour, an Information Security Consultant at cyber security company eSentire commented below.
Kurtis Armour, Information Security Consultant at eSentire:
“The main techniques we see botnets attempting to grow is through malware utilizing JavaScript payloads, standard binaries, macros and PowerShell payloads, with notable delivery techniques through exploitation (exploit kits and malvertising) and social engineering (tricking users into opening bad software). Defense in depth strategies generally focus on preventing the exploit/malware from landing via network access controls. If a threat actor is able to get initial code execution on a machine, it’s up to the access controls on the host system to prevent successful compromise.
One of the most effective ways to protect against compromise is by limiting what someone has the ability to do when they get onto a machine. Consider enforcing these practices within your organization:
Don’t allow general users to connect to the local administrator account.
Limit what software can be allowed on the system.
Disallow the auto-execution of scripts to limit the potential attack surface.
Change the default execution of specific applications to stop malicious files from being executed when a user double clicks on them.
Reduce the risk that comes with embedded VBA macros within Microsoft Office documents.
Enforce application whitelisting rules to ensure only approved applications are executed.”
ISBuzz Team embodies the collaborative efforts of the dedicated staff at Information Security Buzz, converging a wide range of skills and viewpoints to present a unified, engaging voice in the information security realm. This entity isn't tied to a single individual; instead, it's a dynamic embodiment of a team diligently working behind the scenes to keep you updated and secure. When you read a post from ISBuzz Team, you're receiving the most relevant and actionable insights, curated and crafted by professionals tuned in to the pulse of the cybersecurity world. ISBuzz Team - your reliable compass in the fast-evolving landscape of information security
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.