Definition
Operation Shady RAT is an advanced cyber espionage that McAfee discovered in 2011. It has been active since 2006 and involved widespread and extended cyber intrusions targeting at least 72 organizations worldwide, including corporations, government agencies, and non-profits.
How Operation Shady RAT Worked
- Target identification: The attackers chose a broad target, including international organizations, defense contractors, and high-tech companies, aiming to collect intellectual property and sensitive information.
- Initial compromise: Spear-phishing email was the standard method of attack the attackers used to establish an initial entry point. The emails contained malicious links or attachments that would install a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) on the victim’s device when opened, giving the attacker remote control.
- Data exfiltration: After gaining remote access, attackers could steal valuable information like sensitive documents, emails, and intellectual property.
- Maintaining access and covering tracks: The attackers could use various advanced methods to maintain long-term access and avoid detection.