DarkComet

DarkComet is a remote access trojan (RAT) created by Jean-Pierre Lesueur (DarkCoderSc) in 2008. It allows attackers to control infected systems remotely, to log keystrokes, to watch webcams, to disable security features. Although it’s been discontinued, DarkComet is still a big threat because it’s so widely available and easy to use.

Key Insights

Initially a legitimate tool, DarkComet has been repurposed by bad guys for unauthorized access and control of victim systems. Its user friendly interface and many features made it popular among cybercriminals. The tool works by establishing a connection between the attacker (client) and the victim’s machine (server) to allow real time surveillance and data exfiltration.

Functionalities

DarkComet has many functionalities that can be used for malicious purposes. These include taking screenshots, recording audio through the system’s microphone, getting passwords stored in browsers, manipulating files on the infected machine. It can also disable the task manager and other system utilities to make detection and removal harder for the victim.

Historical Context

DarkComet has been misused in various geopolitical conflicts. During the Syrian civil war, the malware was used to spy on activists and it was associated with oppressive surveillance. So the developer stopped distributing it in 2012 because of its unethical use.

Known Variants

There are several variants of DarkComet: DarkKomet, Fynloski and Breut. These variants have the same core functionalities as the original RAT but may have modifications to evade detection or to enhance some features.

Mitigation Strategies

Disable remote desktop protocols.
Use a strong antivirus to detect and remove RAT.
Update all software and OS to patch vulnerabilities.
Educate users not to download and execute unknown attachments or software.
Limit admin privileges to minimize the effect of remote access tools.

Targeted Industries or Sectors

DarkComet has been used to target individuals: for surveillance and data theft. Also small businesses to get access to sensitive information and intellectual property. And the last affected sector are government entities, especially in areas of political unrest, for espionage.

Associated Threat Actors

Threat actor groups are not always publicly identified but DarkComet has been used by state-sponsored actors during the Syrian civil war to monitor dissidents. Also used by cybercriminals to get financial gain through data theft and extortion