Types of Remote Access Trojan (RAT)

Remote Access Trojans (RATs) are among the most stealthy and dangerous forms of malware. They give cybercriminals unauthorized access to your system, often without detection. This article explores the most common types of RATs, how they infect computers, and how to protect against them.

Diverse Types of Remote Access Trojans

• Basic RATs: Entry-level malware often used by amateur hackers. Example: Beast Trojan.
• Commercial RATs: Sold on underground markets with advanced capabilities. Example: BlackShades.
• Banking RATs: Designed to steal financial data. Example: Zeus Trojan.
• Mobile RATs: Target Android and iOS devices. Example: SpyNote.
• Advanced Persistent RATs: Used for espionage and nation-state surveillance. Example: Gh0st RAT.

Top 10 Remote Access Trojans You Should Know

1. DarkComet: Known for webcam spying and remote control features. Widely used during the Syrian conflict.
2. BlackShades: A user-friendly RAT with keystroke logging and file theft. Subject to a global takedown in 2014.
3. Poison Ivy: Often used in corporate espionage. It offers stealth operations and full system control.
4. Gh0st RAT: Used by advanced attackers, particularly in state-sponsored espionage campaigns.
5. Beast Trojan: One of the earliest RATs with reverse connection capability.
6. ProRat: Generates its own server executable and is known for easy deployment.
7. AndroRAT: Focused on Android systems, capable of data theft, surveillance, and SMS interception.
8. Pandora RAT: Capable of installing additional malware after gaining access.
9. NetWire RAT: Cross-platform, active for over a decade, targeting multiple operating systems.
10. Flame (Flamer): Sophisticated espionage toolkit used in Middle East campaigns with modular functionality.

How RATs Infect Computers

• Email Attachments: Disguised files with embedded malicious scripts.
• Phishing Links: Fake websites or links that trigger downloads.
• Bundled Software: Hidden RATs installed alongside free or pirated software.
• USB Devices: Spreads when infected flash drives are plugged in.
• Exploiting Vulnerabilities: Targets unpatched software and operating systems.

How to Protect Yourself from Remote Access Trojans

• Keep your operating system and apps updated with security patches.
• Use strong antivirus software and enable real-time scanning.
• Avoid opening attachments from unknown senders.
• Monitor your system’s processes regularly.
• Use a reliable firewall to monitor inbound/outbound traffic.
• Enable two-factor authentication where available.

See Also

• Protecting Your Personal Computer from Remote Access Trojans
• Comprehensive Guide to Removing Malware and Viruses
• How to Remove Malware and Viruses?
• Types of Malware and How They Infect Your Computer