🫚Bootkit

A bootkit is a type of malware that infects the boot process of a computer, targeting the Master Boot Record (MBR) or the boot sector of a hard drive. Bootkits are designed to load before the operating system, giving them the ability to execute before traditional antivirus software and operating system protections can be engaged.

Key Characteristics of Bootkits

1. Pre-Operating System Execution

   • Early Load: Bootkits are loaded before the operating system starts, which allows them to bypass many traditional security measures and evade detection by antivirus software.

   • Boot Sector Infection: They typically infect the boot sector or MBR of a hard drive. This means they execute during the boot process, making them difficult to detect and remove.

2. Types of Bootkits

   • MBR Bootkits: Target the Master Boot Record (MBR) of a hard drive. They modify the MBR to load malicious code before the operating system starts.

   • UEFI/BIOS Bootkits: Target the UEFI (Unified Extensible Firmware Interface) or BIOS (Basic Input/Output System) firmware. These are harder to detect and remove because they operate at a lower level than the operating system.

3. Common Functions

   • Persistence: Ensures that the malware remains on the system even if the operating system is reinstalled or the hard drive is reformatted.

   • Stealth: Hides itself and other malicious activities from the operating system and security software by intercepting and altering system boot processes.

   • Control: Allows attackers to gain control of the system early in the boot process, providing the ability to install additional malware, steal information, or manipulate system operations.

4. Detection and Prevention

   • Boot Sector Scanners: Specialized tools designed to scan and detect anomalies in the boot sector or MBR.

   • UEFI/BIOS Integrity Checks: Monitoring and verifying the integrity of UEFI/BIOS firmware to detect unauthorized modifications.

   • Secure Boot: Utilizing secure boot features to ensure that only trusted and signed bootloaders and operating systems are loaded during the boot process.

   • Firmware Updates: Keeping firmware up to date with the latest security patches to protect against vulnerabilities exploited by bootkits.

5. Incident Response

   • Containment: Isolating affected systems to prevent further spread or damage caused by the bootkit.

   • Eradication: Removing the bootkit, which may require specialized tools or a full system reinstallation, including reformatting the hard drive and reinstalling the operating system.

   • Recovery: Restoring systems from clean backups and implementing security measures to prevent future infections, such as enabling secure boot and applying firmware updates.