Advanced evasion technique
AET Definition
An Advanced Evasion Technique (AET) is a sophisticated method employed by cyber attackers to bypass security systems and deliver malicious payloads without detection. AETs utilize various tactics to obfuscate the true nature of the attack, making it challenging for traditional signature-based detection methods to identify them.
How AET Works
AETs utilize several techniques to evade detection and deliver their payloads:
1. Obfuscation
One of the primary tactics employed by AETs is obfuscation, where the attackers manipulate or encrypt malware code to evade signature-based detection. By altering the code's structure or using encryption techniques, AETs can make the malware appear benign and undetectable to security solutions.
2. Protocol Manipulation
AETs also employ protocol manipulation techniques to avoid detection by defensive measures such as deep packet inspection. This involves modifying network protocols, packet headers, or payload contents, making it difficult for security systems to identify and interrupt the malicious activities.
3. Traffic Fragmentation
Another evasion tactic used by AETs is traffic fragmentation. By splitting malicious traffic across multiple packets, AETs can evade pattern matching and make it arduous for security solutions to reassemble the malicious content at the destination. This fragmentation technique helps them bypass inspection systems and deliver their payload undetected.
4. Polymorphism
Polymorphism is another technique utilized by AETs to avoid detection. In this method, the malware continually modifies its appearance by changing its underlying code or structure. By doing so, AETs can create new variations of the malware that can't be detected using traditional signature-based detection methods. The ability to morph their code makes AETs elusive and highly effective at evading security systems that rely solely on known signatures.
Prevention Tips
To protect against Advanced Evasion Techniques, it is important to implement proactive security measures. Here are some prevention tips to consider:
1. Use Behavior-Based Detection
Rather than relying solely on signature-based detection, it is recommended to implement security solutions that analyze the behavior of files and network activities. This approach can help identify and block AETs based on their behavior patterns, even when the specific signatures are not yet known. Behavior-based detection can provide a more effective defense against AETs, as it focuses on identifying the actions and intentions of a file or network traffic rather than relying on known signatures.
2. Regularly Update Security Systems
Keeping intrusion detection and prevention systems up to date is crucial in detecting and blocking new evasion techniques. Security vendors frequently update their systems to include the latest threat intelligence, including known AET patterns and behaviors. By regularly updating security systems, organizations can ensure they have the latest defenses against emerging AETs.
3. Employ Network Segmentation
Network segmentation is an effective strategy to mitigate the impact of AETs. By isolating critical systems and separating them from less secure areas, organizations can contain potential threats. If an AET manages to bypass one layer of defense, network segmentation can limit the lateral movement of the attack and prevent it from spreading across the entire network.
Related Terms
Intrusion Detection System (IDS): An IDS is a security solution that monitors network or system activities for malicious activities or policy violations. It analyzes network traffic and alerts system administrators or security personnel if any suspicious or potentially harmful activities are detected.
Polymorphic Malware: Polymorphic malware is a type of malicious software that changes its underlying code or structure to avoid detection by traditional antivirus solutions. By regularly mutating its appearance, polymorphic malware can bypass signature-based detection mechanisms that rely on known virus signatures.