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ISO Files Are Being Used To Deliver Malware

By January 14, 2020May 9th, 2022Cybersecurity

Researchers at Trustwave have observed a notable increase in the use of .ISO files to deliver malware. Hackers have relied on poisoned disk image files for years to deliver malware to their targets.

It makes sense in a Windows environment because it allows attackers to disguise their payloads as an innocent, standard file type.

In terms of scope and scale, the Trustwave researchers have noted a 6 percent increase in 2019 of this particular attack vector. It is noteworthy enough to be of genuine concern, especially given the fact that .ISO files are often overlooked by antivirus software. That makes it more likely that attackers can deliver their payload undetected.

In one particular campaign unearthed by the researchers, the attackers sent an email that appeared to come from FedEx and offered package tracking information. This was in an attempt to trick recipients into clicking on a file to gain additional information about an incoming package. Of course, the package didn’t actually exist, and clicking on the (.ISO) file installed a malicious payload on the victim’s computer.

It should be noted that .ISO files are not the only image file used in this way. Trustwave also reports a modest uptick in the use of Direct Access Archive (DAA) files. Use of DAA files for the purpose of delivering malware is seen as being somewhat less efficient and effective than using the .ISO format. That’s because specialized software is required to open a .DAA file.

Nonetheless, if a hacking group has done their due diligence and knows the software is installed on a target computer, the DAA file represents another possible inroad that’s likely to go undetected.

Hackers are becoming increasingly inventive, using old tricks mixed with new to infect target systems, making it more difficult than ever for harried IT managers to keep their networks safe. Stay on high alert. The threat landscape is more unpredictable than ever.

Jason Manteiga

Jason J. Manteiga, Vice President of Olmec Systems, has been part of the company for over the past 20 years. He believes that having a great work environment and supportive team, is the ultimate key to success. Since being in the IT realm for over 25 years, Jason, along with Olmec Systems, has been on the Inc. 5000 “List of America’s Fastest Growing Private Companies” and Channel Futures MSP 501 “Top Managed Service Providers in North America,” along with other awards and nominations. Jason earned his Bachelor Degree in Information Systems from the New Jersey Institute of Technology. He also holds certifications in Microsoft MCSE, VMWare VCP, and Cisco CCNA. In his spare time, Jason is a contributor for The Center for Social & Legal Research (Privacy Exchange) and a member of the Morris County Chamber of Commerce. His hobbies include cycling and kayaking. He currently lives in New Jersey with his wife, two daughters and son.