Comparison of VenomRAT and AsyncRAT in Cybersecurity
/ 3 min read
Quick take - The article discusses Remote Access Tools (RATs), specifically comparing VenomRAT and AsyncRAT, highlighting their differing capabilities, features, and implications for cybersecurity detection and response.
Fast Facts
- Remote Access Tools (RATs) like VenomRAT and AsyncRAT enable cyber attackers to gain unauthorized control, facilitating data theft and espionage.
- VenomRAT features advanced capabilities such as sophisticated keylogging, AMSI and ETW bypass mechanisms, and unique classes for evasion, while AsyncRAT has more basic functionalities.
- Both RATs are developed in C# on the .NET Framework but differ in encryption routines and error reporting methods, with VenomRAT using silent error handling.
- AsyncRAT employs a broader range of anti-analysis techniques, while VenomRAT is noted for its advanced evasion tactics similar to those in the SharpSploit project.
- Security vendors recommend treating VenomRAT and AsyncRAT as distinct threats and suggest using tools like the Insight Agent and updated YARA rules for detection and response.
Understanding Remote Access Tools (RATs)
Remote Access Tools (RATs) are a common method used by cyber attackers to gain unauthorized control over compromised systems. These tools facilitate data theft, espionage, and continuous monitoring of victims. Notable examples of open-source RATs include VenomRAT and AsyncRAT, both of which are derived from QuasarRAT, leading to similarities in their design and functionalities. Over time, VenomRAT and AsyncRAT have diverged in terms of their capabilities and behaviors, which has implications for their usage and detection in cybersecurity.
Technical Comparison of VenomRAT and AsyncRAT
A technical comparison of VenomRAT and AsyncRAT reveals distinct differences in their architecture and operational tactics. VenomRAT is equipped with advanced features, such as AMSI (Anti-Malware Scan Interface) and ETW (Event Tracing for Windows) bypass mechanisms. It also has sophisticated keylogging capabilities and hardware interaction functionalities, allowing it to gather detailed information about the compromised system. In contrast, AsyncRAT lacks several of these advanced features; for instance, its keylogger is basic and only tracks window titles, while VenomRAT’s keylogger is more sophisticated, tracking both process and window titles.
Both RATs are developed in C# and built on the .NET Framework (version 4.0.30319). They share common characteristics such as the use of standard libraries for file handling, encryption, and networking. However, they differ in their encryption routines and how they manage error reporting. VenomRAT employs silent error handling to avoid detection, whereas AsyncRAT provides detailed error reports to its command-and-control (C2) server.
Evasion Techniques and Security Implications
AsyncRAT implements a broader range of anti-analysis techniques compared to VenomRAT, including querying system memory to detect virtual machines and avoiding execution on server operating systems. VenomRAT features unique classes like AntiProcess and Camera, which enhance its evasion capabilities by targeting specific system monitoring processes and detecting webcams, respectively. The DInvokeCore class in VenomRAT allows for dynamic API resolution, further improving its ability to evade detection.
The techniques employed by VenomRAT for bypassing security features are notably similar to those found in the SharpSploit project, leading to the view that VenomRAT has more advanced evasion techniques compared to AsyncRAT. Given their differing capabilities, security vendors advocate for treating VenomRAT and AsyncRAT as distinct threats.
Rapid7 has provided coverage for detecting both RATs and recommends the installation of the Insight Agent for improved visibility into suspicious processes. Additionally, an updated YARA rule for VenomRAT has been shared to assist cybersecurity professionals in detection and response efforts against this threat.
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