In the realm of cybersecurity, the traditional approach to malware detection often revolves around scanning for files that harbor malicious code. However, a new breed of threat is emerging—fileless malware—which operates in a manner that evades conventional antivirus solutions. This type of malware does not rely on creating files on a hard drive; instead, it resides within the active memory of a computer, executing harmful commands without leaving a trace that traditional software can detect.
What are fileless attacks?
Unlike typical malware, which drops files to ensure its persistence after a reboot, fileless attacks utilize legitimate tools already trusted by the operating system. For instance, PowerShell, a built-in Windows utility, can be hijacked to execute harmful scripts directly in memory. This stealthy operation allows fileless malware to blend seamlessly with normal system activities, making it difficult for standard antivirus programs to identify and neutralize the threat.
As cybercriminals increasingly adopt this method, the risks escalate. Fileless malware can be employed to steal sensitive information, hold files for ransom, or covertly utilize computing resources for cryptocurrency mining—all while remaining undetected by traditional defenses.
How Malwarebytes stops these invisible attacks
Malwarebytes has developed a robust strategy to combat these elusive threats. Rather than relying solely on file scans, the company monitors the behavior of programs within a computer’s memory, employing two key defense layers:
Defense Layer 1: Script Monitoring
- This layer intercepts potentially dangerous scripts before they can execute. Whether the script is written in PowerShell, VBScript, or JavaScript, Malwarebytes inspects it at the moment of execution.
- If the script is deemed malicious, it is blocked immediately; if it is safe, it proceeds as intended.
- Malwarebytes employs advanced technology to decode scrambled commands, revealing their true intentions and thwarting attacks before they can unfold.
Defense Layer 2: Command-Line Protection
- This layer scrutinizes the actions of command-line tools like PowerShell and Windows Script Host. It assesses whether these programs are attempting to perform suspicious activities, such as downloading files from untrustworthy sources or disabling security measures.
- By identifying these patterns, Malwarebytes can effectively counteract even the most sophisticated attempts to bypass its defenses.
What might a fileless attack look like?
To illustrate the potential dangers of fileless attacks, consider the following scenarios:
Attack scenario 1: The disguised email attachment
Imagine receiving an email with what appears to be a legitimate invoice. Upon opening the attachment, a macro embedded within it silently activates PowerShell to download ransomware. Traditional antivirus solutions may remain oblivious, as no files have been created yet.
Malwarebytes’ response: The Script Monitoring feature detects the malicious macro, blocks the PowerShell command, and prevents the ransomware from infiltrating your system.
Attack scenario 2: The silent cryptocurrency miner
Visiting a seemingly innocuous website could trigger hidden JavaScript that commandeers your computer’s processing power for cryptocurrency mining. You might notice your laptop heating up and the fan working overtime, but the connection to the mining activity may not be immediately apparent.
Malwarebytes’ response: The Command-Line Protection identifies the mining script’s behavior and blocks it before it can exploit your resources, ensuring your computer runs smoothly.
Attack scenario 3: The persistent backdoor
A sophisticated attacker may leverage Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI) to establish a backdoor for ongoing access to your system without installing any traditional malware. This method allows them to set up scheduled tasks that run hidden scripts, providing them with continuous, unauthorized access.
Malwarebytes’ response: By monitoring WMI activity, Malwarebytes can detect and block unauthorized attempts to create backdoors, effectively neutralizing the threat before it takes root.
About Fileless Protection in Malwarebytes
When selecting security software, it is crucial to consider whether it can defend against attacks that do not create files. With Malwarebytes, the answer is a resounding yes.
Runs automatically
Fileless Protection operates seamlessly in the background from the moment of installation, requiring no additional setup. Users are only alerted when a threat is blocked, allowing them to focus on their tasks without interruption.
Works with your everyday tools
Malwarebytes ensures that legitimate applications function normally while stepping in only when a genuine threat is detected.
Part of a bigger defense
This protection is one component of Malwarebytes’ comprehensive security framework, which includes machine-learning detection, web protection, and exploit protection. Each layer reinforces the others, ensuring that if one fails, another can catch the threat.
Stops attacks that never write files
Fileless Protection actively monitors memory for suspicious commands, thwarting attacks before they can compromise data or disrupt operations.
Included with Malwarebytes Premium
This advanced protection is part of the Malwarebytes Premium offering, designed to safeguard both personal and small business systems. With its unobtrusive operation and proactive threat detection, Malwarebytes stands ready to protect users from the evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats.
We don’t just report on threats—we remove them
In a world where cybersecurity risks can escalate quickly, it’s essential to keep threats at bay. Download Malwarebytes today to ensure your devices remain secure.
