Malware File Analysis Process Simplified
File analysis is an essential step in understanding and managing computer threats. It makes it possible to detect and understand the attack mechanisms used by malware, the vulnerabilities exploited and the intentions of attackers.
In this article, we will describe the three stages of file scanning: virus scanning, static scanning, and dynamic scanning. We will also give examples of commonly used tools for each of these steps.
First Layer — Hallmark Analysis
Virus scanning is the first step of file scanning. It involves examining the file in question for signs of infection or malicious activity. This step is essential to quickly identify threats and take action to contain the attack.
Viral analysis can be carried out using different tools, such as:
VirusTotal..
..a free online service that allows you to scan a file for viruses, worms, trojans and malware. VirusTotal uses a database of virus signatures to identify threats and can also perform behavioral analysis to detect malware that uses cloaking techniques.
Malwarebytes threat center..
..a security tool that helps detect and eliminate unwanted malware, adware and toolbars. Malwarebytes uses a database of malware signatures to identify threats and can also perform behavioral analysis to detect malware that uses cloaking techniques.
ClamAv..
a free tool that scans computers for viruses, worms, trojans and other threats. The AntiVirus Scanner uses a database of virus signatures to identify threats and to detect malware that uses camouflage techniques.
Second Layer — Static Analysis
Static analysis involves examining the file code to understand how it works and its intentions. This step helps detect exploited vulnerabilities, attack mechanisms and sensitive data that can be targeted.
Static analysis can be performed using different tools, such as:
Disassemblers..
..tools that allow the file code to be broken down into assembly instructions for examination. Commonly used disassemblers include IDA Pro, OllyDbg and x86db. These tools make it possible to understand how the code works and detect exploited vulnerabilities.
Decompilers..
..tools that convert assembly code into more readable source code. Commonly used decompilers include JD-GUI, JADX, and Androlib. These tools make it possible to understand how the code works and detect exploited vulnerabilities.
Reverse engineering tools..
..tools that allow you to understand how software works by analyzing its code and data. Commonly used reverse engineering tools include OllyDbg, Process Explorer, and Regshot. These tools make it possible to understand how the code works and detect exploited vulnerabilities.
Third Layer — Dynamic Analysis
Dynamic analysis involves running the file in a controlled environment to observe its behavior and understand its interactions with the system. This step makes it possible to detect exploited vulnerabilities, attack mechanisms and attacker intentions.
Dynamic analysis can be performed using different tools, such as:
Sandboxes..
..des environnements virtuels qui permettent d’exécuter le fichier dans un environnement contrôlé pour observer son comportement. Les sandboxes couramment utilisées incluent Cuckoo Sandbox, Anubis et Malice. Ces outils permettent de comprendre le comportement du fichier et de détecter les menaces.
Simulation tools…
..tools that allow you to simulate the execution of the file in a controlled environment. Commonly used simulation tools include QEMU, Bochs and VirtualBox. These tools allow you to understand file behavior and detect threats.
Monitoring tools..
..tools that allow you to monitor the behavior of the file during execution. Commonly used monitoring tools include Process Explorer, Filemon and Regshot. These tools allow you to understand file behavior and detect threats.
In summary, file analysis is an essential step in understanding and managing computer threats. It makes it possible to detect and understand the attack mechanisms used by malware, the vulnerabilities exploited and the intentions of attackers. The three stages of file analysis — virus analysis, static analysis, and dynamic analysis — use specific tools to examine the file and understand how it works. Using these tools, security professionals can take steps to contain attacks and protect systems from cyber threats.
