Windows 2003/XP/2000/NT/ME/98/95

Gh0stRat.K is a backdoor that allows hackers to gain remote access to the affected computer in order to carry out actions that compromise user confidentiality and impede the tasks performed on the computer.

It affects productivity, preventing tasks from being carried out:

• In the affected computer: it converts the computer into a platform for taking malicious action surreptitiously: spam sending, launch of Denial of Service attacks, malware distribution, etc.

It reduces the security level of the computer: it changes system permissions, decreasing the security level.

It uses stealth techniques to avoid being detected by the user:

• It uses techniques included in its code to hide itself while it is active.
• It deletes the original file from which it was run once it is installed on the computer.

Gh0stRat.K uses the following propagation or distribution methods:

• Exploiting vulnerabilities with the intervention of the user: exploiting vulnerabilities in file formats or applications. To exploit them successfully it needs the intervention of the user: opening files, viewing malicious web pages, reading emails, etc.
• Via Internet, exploiting remote vulnerabilities: attacking random IP addresses, in which it tries to insert a copy of itself by exploiting one or more vulnerabilities.