THE EXPLOITATION OF LEGITIMATE REMOTE ACCESS TOOLS IN MODERN RANSOMWARE CAMPAIGNS

Summary from the TLDR InfoSec newsletter

Ransomware operators often use remote access tools such as AnyDesk and UltraViewer to maintain persistence, execute remote tasks, and transfer files while avoiding detection. Their typical attack involves using stolen credentials to compromise an employee, then either hijacking existing tools or installing legitimate remote access software, followed by establishing persistence, escalating privileges, and disabling security tools. Subsequently, they deploy payloads, move laterally within the network, and finally execute their ransomware attack.