Basic Malware Analysis - Introductory Cyber Security
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Basic Malware Analysis

Basic Malware Analysis

The module provides an extensive introduction to malware analysis, covering the classification of various malware types and their characteristics. It explores critical methodologies for analyzing malware, specifically static and dynamic analysis, alongside contemporary detection paradigms, including signature-based and behavioral detection approaches. Finally, the module prepares students with the conceptual framework necessary for understanding malware investigation processes and the strategies for neutralizing threats in a real-world cybersecurity context.

16 sections

Sections

Navigate through the learning materials and practice exercises.

  1. 1
    Various Malware Classes And Their Characteristics

    This section provides an overview of different malware classes, their...

  2. 1.1

    This section covers computer viruses, detailing their definition,...

  3. 1.2

    Worms are self-replicating malware that propagate across networks without...

  4. 1.3
    Trojans (Trojan Horses)

    Trojans, or Trojan horses, are malicious programs that deceive users by...

  5. 1.4

    Rootkits are sophisticated malicious software that provide unauthorized...

  6. 1.5

    Ransomware is malware that encrypts files or locks systems, demanding...

  7. 1.6

    Spyware is malicious software designed to secretly gather information about...

  8. 1.7

    Adware is software that displays advertisements, often bundled with...

  9. 1.8
    Bots / Botnets

    Bots are compromised computers that can be remotely controlled by an...

  10. 1.9
    Fileless Malware

    Fileless malware operates entirely within a computer's memory without...

  11. 2
    Difference Between Static Analysis And Dynamic Analysis

    This section delineates the key differences between static and dynamic...

  12. 2.1
    Static Analysis

    Static analysis focuses on examining malicious software without executing...

  13. 2.2
    Dynamic Analysis

    Dynamic analysis involves executing malware in a controlled environment to...

  14. 3
    Signature Vs. Behavioral Detection Techniques

    This section contrasts signature-based and behavioral detection techniques...

  15. 3.1
    Signature-Based Detection

    Signature-based detection identifies known malware through unique patterns...

  16. 3.2
    Behavioral Detection (Heuristic/anomaly-Based Detection)

    Behavioral detection identifies malicious actions in applications by...

What we have learnt

  • Malware classifications are based on their propagation methods, stealth capabilities, behavior, and impact.
  • Both static and dynamic analysis are crucial for comprehensively understanding and investigating malware.
  • Signature-based and behavioral detection methods represent two primary strategies for identifying malware, each with unique strengths and weaknesses.

Key Concepts

-- Malware
Software designed to disrupt computer operations or gain unauthorized access to sensitive information.
-- Static Analysis
The process of examining the code and internal structure of a malware sample without executing it.
-- Dynamic Analysis
Involves executing malware in a controlled environment to observe its real-time behavior.
-- SignatureBased Detection
Detection mechanisms that use known patterns and signatures of malware to identify threats.
-- Behavioral Detection
Detection that focuses on identifying suspicious behaviors exhibited by programs during execution.

Additional Learning Materials

Supplementary resources to enhance your learning experience.