What is a Malware Command and Control Server – Guide
A command and control (C&C) server is a computer that issues instructions to digital devices that have been infected with rootkits or other types of malware such as ransomware. C&C servers can be used to create powerful networks of infected devices capable of executing distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, stealing data, wiping data, or encrypting data to execute an extortion scheme. In the past, a C&C server was often under the physical control of an attacker and could remain active for several years. Today, C&C servers generally have a short lifespan; They often reside on legitimate cloud services and use automated domain generation algorithms (DGAs) to make it harder for law enforcement officers and white hat malware hunters to find.
A malicious network under the control of a C&C server is called a botnet, and the network nodes that belong to the botnet are sometimes called zombies. In a traditional botnet, bots are infected with a Trojan horse and use Internet Relay Chat (IRC) to communicate with a central C&C server. These botnets were commonly used to spread spam or malware and collect misused information such as credit card numbers.
All command and control servers are malicious
All command and control servers serve as central hubs for cybercriminals, allowing them to control multiple devices on a target network. A command and control server can help hackers: ..
Steal confidential data
This is a stolen data theft command and control server that is used to store stolen files and logs which are later sent to a remote location still under the attackers’ control.
turn off a network
Attackers can cripple a target organization by shutting down machines that disrupt all company operations.
restart systems
A hacker can use a reboot command to repeatedly disrupt a company’s operations.
Initiate a distributed denial of service attack
A DDoS attack is a type of attack in which a large number of machines are sent to the target network in order to overload it and prevent it from functioning.
What is a command and control server in a botnet for?
A command and control server controls all computers infected with its malware component, turning them into bots and the entire infrastructure into a botnet. Any poorly secured device can be turned into a bot by:
- Being connected to the internet
- Having an unsecured software installation
- Being exposed to the malware’s attack vector ..
A recent study found that a high percentage of emails sent to users contain malicious attachments.
When a user downloads or clicks on a malicious link, the malware is automatically installed on the system and turns it into a bot or zombie.
One common way to take control of a computer is to exploit a vulnerability.
If you’re using software that’s not properly patched, you could be opening yourself up to attack by someone who has access to your computer.
Final note
What is a Malware Command and Control Server? A Malware Command and Control Server (MCCS) is a server that provides remote access to malware infections, allowing attackers to control infected systems from afar. MCCSes are often used by cybercriminals in order to spread malware infections and steal data.
