9.2 Malware Analysis Techniques Explained
1. Static Analysis
Static analysis involves examining the code and structure of a malware sample without executing it. This technique helps in identifying the file type, dependencies, and potential indicators of compromise (IOCs).
Example: Think of static analysis as examining a blueprint of a building. Just as the blueprint reveals the layout and materials, static analysis reveals the structure and components of the malware.
2. Dynamic Analysis
Dynamic analysis involves executing the malware in a controlled environment, such as a virtual machine, to observe its behavior. This technique helps in understanding the malware's functionality, network activity, and potential damage.
Example: Consider dynamic analysis as testing a car on a track. Just as the test drive reveals how the car performs, dynamic analysis reveals how the malware behaves when executed.
3. Behavioral Analysis
Behavioral analysis focuses on monitoring the actions and interactions of the malware during execution. This technique helps in identifying the malware's objectives, such as data theft, system manipulation, or network propagation.
Example: Think of behavioral analysis as observing a person's actions in a day. Just as the actions reveal the person's intentions, behavioral analysis reveals the malware's intentions.
4. Code Disassembly
Code disassembly involves converting the machine code of the malware into assembly language, making it easier to understand the underlying logic and functionality. This technique helps in identifying specific functions and potential vulnerabilities.
Example: Consider code disassembly as translating a foreign language. Just as translation helps in understanding the meaning, disassembly helps in understanding the malware's code.
5. Code Decompilation
Code decompilation involves converting the compiled binary of the malware back into a high-level language, such as C or C++. This technique helps in gaining a deeper understanding of the malware's source code and logic.
Example: Think of code decompilation as reverse engineering a product. Just as reverse engineering reveals how a product is made, decompilation reveals how the malware is constructed.
6. Network Traffic Analysis
Network traffic analysis involves monitoring the network activity generated by the malware during execution. This technique helps in identifying communication patterns, command-and-control (C2) servers, and data exfiltration attempts.
Example: Consider network traffic analysis as monitoring phone calls. Just as monitoring calls reveals communication patterns, network traffic analysis reveals the malware's communication patterns.
7. File System Analysis
File system analysis involves examining the changes made to the file system by the malware. This technique helps in identifying new files, modified files, and deleted files, providing insights into the malware's impact.
Example: Think of file system analysis as examining a library's catalog. Just as the catalog reveals changes in the library, file system analysis reveals changes made by the malware.
8. Memory Analysis
Memory analysis involves examining the memory of a system infected by malware to identify running processes, injected code, and other artifacts. This technique helps in understanding the malware's runtime behavior and persistence mechanisms.
Example: Consider memory analysis as examining a computer's RAM. Just as RAM stores temporary data, memory analysis reveals the malware's runtime data.
9. Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) Identification
IOCs identification involves identifying specific artifacts, such as file hashes, IP addresses, and registry keys, that indicate the presence of malware. This technique helps in detecting and responding to malware incidents.
Example: Think of IOCs identification as identifying fingerprints at a crime scene. Just as fingerprints help identify the culprit, IOCs help identify the malware.
By understanding these malware analysis techniques, you can effectively identify, understand, and mitigate the impact of malware, ensuring a robust cybersecurity posture for your organization.