Orcus RAT (also known as Orcus RAT, Orcus Technologies) is a C#/.NET-based remote access trojan active since 2016. Commercial RAT disguised as admin tool. Key capabilities include: HVNC, plugin system, webcam, keylogger, marketed as 'remote admin tool'.
Overview & Background
Commercial RAT disguised as admin tool. First observed in 2016, Orcus RAT is attributed to eCrime (MaaS). The malware is written in C#/.NET and provides operators with comprehensive remote access capabilities.
Orcus RAT continues to be actively distributed and used in campaigns targeting organizations worldwide. Its capabilities include: HVNC, plugin system, webcam, keylogger, marketed as 'remote admin tool'.
- Language: C#/.NET
- Active since: 2016
- Attribution: eCrime (MaaS)
- Also known as: Orcus RAT, Orcus Technologies
Technical Capabilities
- Hvnc: Core Orcus RAT capability T1059
- Plugin System: Core Orcus RAT capability T1059
- Webcam: Core Orcus RAT capability T1059
- Keylogger: Core Orcus RAT capability T1059
- Marketed As 'Remote Admin Tool': Core Orcus RAT capability T1059
Distribution Methods
Orcus RAT is typically distributed through phishing emails with malicious attachments, cracked software downloads, and malvertising campaigns. Common delivery mechanisms include Office macros, ISO/IMG containers, and script-based downloaders.
- Phishing emails: Malicious attachments and links T1566.001
- Malvertising: SEO poisoning and malicious ads T1189
- Cracked software: Bundled with pirated applications
MITRE ATT&CK Mapping
| Tactic | Technique | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Access | T1566.001 Phishing Attachment | Malicious email attachments |
| Execution | T1204.002 Malicious File | User executes RAT payload |
| Persistence | T1547.001 Registry Run Keys | Autostart persistence |
| Defense Evasion | T1027 Obfuscated Files | Payload obfuscation |
| Credential Access | T1056.001 Keylogging | Keystroke capture |
| Collection | T1113 Screen Capture | Screenshot collection |
| Collection | T1125 Video Capture | Webcam access |
| C2 | T1071.001 Web Protocols | HTTP/HTTPS C2 communication |
Detection & Defense
- Endpoint detection: Monitor for C#/.NET processes with network connections from unusual locations
- Network monitoring: Detect C2 traffic patterns associated with Orcus RAT
- Email security: Block malicious attachments and links in phishing campaigns
- Application whitelisting: Restrict execution of unauthorized binaries
- YARA rules: Deploy detection signatures for known Orcus RAT variants
Protect Against Remote Access Trojans
Mjolnir Security provides comprehensive detection and response capabilities against Orcus RAT and similar RAT threats.
- RAT Detection & Removal Identify and remediate Orcus RAT infections including persistence mechanisms and lateral movement artifacts.
- Threat Intelligence Continuous monitoring for Orcus RAT campaigns and infrastructure targeting your organization.
- 24/7 Incident Response Rapid containment and forensic investigation. Call +1 833 403 5875.
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