Here at Creative Network Solutions, we are Preston’s leading IT support and network services experts. From secure remote access services to business VoIP, we are the team you can count on. And this is our guide to everything you should know about multi-platform malware, and the threat this can pose.
So, what is multi-platform malware?
With rising cyber security risks and new threats emerging, keeping your business safe has never been more important. One of the newest cyber security threats to emerge is a complicated and complex attack across multiple platforms. But what does this mean? Well multi-platform malware is a multiple pronged attack that can infect all three of the major operating systems with malware or ransomware.
Multi-platform malware targets Windows
Windows is probably the most common operating system among businesses and companies and this is what cyber criminals target as part of a multi-platform attack. The Windows aspect of this attack involves an initial download of the loading software, which then goes on to download further software which can:
- Run cmd.exe /c or powershell.exe
- Manipulate processes
- Check for a TCP connection with a specific address
- Create an HTTP proxy server waiting for incoming TCP connections;
- Manipulate files
- Connect to remote servers.
Multi-platform malware targets Linux
While Linux might be seen as one of the most secure platforms, the cyber criminals behind the multi-platform malware have also been able to successfully target Linux systems with a similar set of tools. These work in a similar way with the initial orchestrator malware downloading further malicious programming. This focuses on exploiting vulnerabilities and out of date software.
Multi-platform malware targets macOS
The tools for the macOS version were almost identical to those for the Linux attack although these were found in Trojanized applications based on open-source software.
Protecting your company from multi-platform malware
So how can your company stay safe from detailed and complex threats that target all platforms that you may be working with? Well there are a number of things to consider, including:
- Protect against phishing- for any type of malware to work it initially needs to make it into your system which often means being downloaded or opened by employees clicking malicious links sent through phishing scams. Scanning software that identifies this threat, and prevents this from being opened, as well as training and education can be key to preventing this initial security breach.
- Working with a professional team- a professional team can help to keep your systems monitored so that any suspicious activity can be identified and investigated. Here at Creative Network Solutions we also offer a range of security services, as well as professional network solutions, to help keep your company safe from cyber crime.
For more information or advice about your network security, systems, or multi-platform malware, why not get in touch with the experts today, here at Creative Network Solutions.