There are a huge number of viruses and threats on the modern Internet that an unprepared user may encounter. An example of this is also a backdoor. This is a fairly common malware that allows an attacker to take control of a system by gaining access to it. What a backdoor is and how to detect it will be discussed later.
Definition
The word "backdoor" from English can be translated as "back door". And this value is not accidental, because this vulnerability implies the presence of loopholes in the security system. At the same time, even a developer can leave it in order to be able to gain access to the system and fix problems in the future. However, it is most popular with hackers who know how to create a backdoor or take advantage of an existing one.
How does it work
The backdoor works in the background and is not noticeable to the user. Despite the similarity with other viruses, its detection is very difficult. This is one of the most dangerous types of viruses because an attacker gains full control over the system. With it, you can simply follow the user, and change data, install or remove programs, download personal and confidential information. For the most part, backdoors are also equipped with a number of other functions, such as infection and file encryption. In fact, the parasite is a combination of different threats that can be autonomous and do not need constant monitoring.
Even if the user knows what a backdoor is, its detection is not always possible, since it is built into a program that must be installed on a computer in some way. However, there are options that do not require installation, since parts of them are already embedded in software running on a remote host.
In terms of functionality, the backdoor is simultaneously similar to trojans, keyloggers, viruses, spies and remote control tools. However, their functionality is more complicated and dangerous, therefore they are allocated in a separate category.
Let's take a closer look at what a backdoor is.
Virus spread
Despite the fact that its distribution is basically impossible without the knowledge of the user, it often penetrates the system with the installed software. There are several basic ways to penetrate:
- Inexperienced users may do this by mistake. For example, a letter came in the mail with an attached program, the name of which is not suspicious. After starting such a file, the backdoor will penetrate the system. At the same time, finding out how to find a backdoor on a computer is quite difficult, since it is difficult to remove it yourself.
- Penetration along with other viruses and spies. Unlike a backdoor, they do not need user permission. Some can be installed manually by hackers with a special level of access.
- Separate backdoors are already built into the application. Some legitimate programs can be tampered with with the addition of remote access. The attacking file must be connected to the PC through the installation of a similar program in order to immediately gain access and control over the system or program.
- Sometimes a backdoor can infect a computer by exploiting vulnerabilities in programs. His work is like worms and invisible to users.
Available features
Using a backdoor, a hacker can work with an infected device as with his PC. It is often difficult to identify who controls the parasite. Using the resulting loophole can take several months or years, until it becomes noticeable. After gaining access, the following actions can be performed:
- Creating, deleting, copying or editing files, changing system settings, registry, installation of other software.
- Managing the hardware of a PC, changing settings related to rebooting and turning off the computer, without the knowledge of the user.
- Collection of personal user information.
- Record all actions and button presses, take screenshots with the possibility of their subsequent sending to email addresses.
- Infecting files, applications, and harming the entire system.
Examples
Despite the secrecy and specificity of backdoors, there are several who have gained some fame and prevalence among hackers who also know how to make a backdoor, and information protection specialists.
- FinSpy is a backdoor that gives an attacker the ability to download and run any file from the network. Reduces system protection by changing the firewall settings. At work, uses random names, which makes it difficult to find and delete.
- Tixanbot - gives full access to an infected device. It can stop any system processes and anti-virus programs, block access to Internet resources. It may be distributed by sending messages with links, when clicked, it is installed.
- Briba - provides remote access to the system. It can cause instability and malfunctions of the computer.
Delete
Even knowing what a backdoor is, it is unlikely to remove it on your own, since it practically does not show itself, and it is difficult to fix and stop it. It is better to do this automatically - with the help of programs. Examples of such programs are Reimage, Malwarebytes, and more.
Having learned about what a backdoor is, a user can independently check for its presence in the system using special programs. At the same time, it is useful to have an idea of how it can penetrate the system and what signs it gives out.