Remcos RAT (also known as Remcos, Breaking Security) is a C++-based remote access trojan active since 2016. Commercial surveillance RAT. Key capabilities include: remote desktop, keylogger, webcam, microphone, sold as 'legitimate tool' by Breaking Security for EUR 58-389.
Overview & Background
Commercial surveillance RAT. First observed in 2016, Remcos RAT is attributed to eCrime (MaaS). The malware is written in C++ and provides operators with comprehensive remote access capabilities.
Remcos RAT continues to be actively distributed and used in campaigns targeting organizations worldwide. Its capabilities include: remote desktop, keylogger, webcam, microphone, sold as 'legitimate tool' by Breaking Security for EUR 58-389.
- Language: C++
- Active since: 2016
- Attribution: eCrime (MaaS)
- Also known as: Remcos, Breaking Security
Technical Capabilities
- Remote Desktop: Core Remcos RAT capability T1059
- Keylogger: Core Remcos RAT capability T1059
- Webcam: Core Remcos RAT capability T1059
- Microphone: Core Remcos RAT capability T1059
- Sold As 'Legitimate Tool' By Breaking Security For Eur 58-389: Core Remcos RAT capability T1059
Distribution Methods
Remcos 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++ processes with network connections from unusual locations
- Network monitoring: Detect C2 traffic patterns associated with Remcos 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 Remcos RAT variants
Protect Against Remote Access Trojans
Mjolnir Security provides comprehensive detection and response capabilities against Remcos RAT and similar RAT threats.
- RAT Detection & Removal Identify and remediate Remcos RAT infections including persistence mechanisms and lateral movement artifacts.
- Threat Intelligence Continuous monitoring for Remcos 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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