The Most Notorious RATs of 2022: A Comprehensive Overview
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Remote Access Trojans (RATs) represent some of the most formidable and potentially harmful tools utilized by hackers to infiltrate systems.
RATs can be disseminated through various methods, but I will highlight the most perilous ones I encountered while exploring the dark web and hacker communities over the last year.
Important: Engaging in malicious activities using any of the software mentioned is strictly prohibited. These tools should only be employed for ethical hacking and legal purposes. I hold no responsibility for any misuse of the software discussed herein.
With that said, let’s dive into the content you clicked on. I will bypass an extensive discussion on the different types of malware and directly present the top 5 Remote Access Trojans. (If you're interested in other hacking tools or cybersecurity topics, feel free to check out my curated list.)
All of the tools listed here are open source, allowing you to inspect the code on GitHub and ensure your safety.
5. "Stitch" by Nathan Lopez
This tool is exceptional for multi-platform remote access, built in Python 2, which ensures compatibility with nearly all operating systems. This facilitates simple server setups and seamless client connections, enhancing your bot network.
Here are some of the key features it offers across MacOS, Linux, and Windows:
- Command and file auto-completion
- Antivirus detection
- Ability to turn off/on display monitors
- Hide/unhide files and directories
- View/edit the hosts file
- Access all system environment variables
- Keylogger with options to view status, start, stop, and dump logs
- Location tracking and other information about the target machine
- Execute custom Python scripts to display results
- Take screenshots
- Detect virtual machines
- Download/Upload files to/from the target system
- Attempt to dump system password hashes
- Payloads disguised as legitimate programs
It's quite impressive for cross-platform functionality, boasting over 2,300 stars on GitHub, reflecting its popularity due to its robust features. For more details and installation instructions, you can visit the GitHub repository.
GitHub - nathanlopez/Stitch: Python Remote Administration Tool (RAT)
Note: Stitch is intended for educational and research purposes only. The author assumes no responsibility for how you choose to use it.
4. "Ghost" by AHXR
Ghost is an intriguing project, not solely for its capabilities but also for its potential for further development. The evolution of Remote Access Trojans has been significant over the past five years, and this tool exemplifies that progress. Here’s a glimpse into its features:
- Remote command execution
- Silent background operation
- Download and execute files (stealthy)
- Safe Mode startup
- Automatic connection to the server
- Encrypted data transmission
- Concealed files
- Installed antivirus displayed to the server
- Efficient malware distribution through download capabilities
- Startup information hidden from tools like msconfig or CCleaner
- Disable Task Manager
While some functionalities are outdated, many remain relevant. The entire program operates via command line and occupies just a few megabytes, making it highly efficient. I recommend reviewing the ReadMe file to explore potential implementations for your own projects.
2. "NullRAT" by NullCode1337
NullRAT is noteworthy as it operates through the social media platform Discord. Essentially, it's an app where you can interact with a bot.
GitHub - NullCode1337/NullRAT: Your next stealthy Remote Access Trojan
This bot features extensive individual capabilities, including:
- Real-time victim monitoring
- Terminate running tasks that aren’t Admin
- Capture images using the victim's webcam
- Take screenshots of the victim's monitor
- Retrieve system information
- Access clipboard text history
- Send and receive files/payloads
- Execute commands quickly
- Find and manage environment variables
- Set startup commands with one instruction
- Decrypt and upload Discord tokens
- Geographic location tracking
- Directory manipulation commands
These are just a few examples; the actual GitHub page contains comprehensive documentation for experimentation.
Having utilized this RAT on several occasions, I can attest to its effectiveness and utility. Now, let’s explore the top-rated RAT of 2022.
1. "The Fat Rat" by Screetsec
With 7,000 stars and numerous forks, this is undoubtedly one of GitHub's most prominent hacking projects. This RAT is feature-rich, straightforward to install, and was recently updated. Here are some of its standout features:
- Full automation of MSFvenom and Metasploit
- Local or remote listener generation
- Easily create backdoors based on the operating system
- Generate various payloads
- Bypass antivirus protections
- File pumper for increasing file sizes
- Detect external IP and interface addresses
- Automatically create AutoRun files for USB/CDROM exploitation
Essentially, this tool integrates seamlessly with Metasploit, making it incredibly beneficial for those familiar with the framework. It can generate backdoors almost instantly, produce a variety of payloads, and evade antivirus detection under certain conditions, all while having the ability to replicate itself as a worm. This tool can be incredibly powerful when wielded by a skilled hacker, and I can personally vouch for its robust functionality.
GitHub - screetsec/TheFatRat: A massive exploiting tool for generating backdoors
Understanding how to operate this tool is essential. I’ve even created automation scripts to enhance its efficiency, though they aren’t published yet. Meanwhile, you might find the following script for hacking websites intriguing.
GitHub - grahamzemel/WebHeckScanner: A hacking tool for bug bounties
If you’re interested in hacking, I recommend experimenting with one of these RATs to familiarize yourself with their functionalities. Just be cautious not to compromise your system; instead, focus on analyzing network function codes or antivirus evasion techniques.
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3. "Social_X" by AzizKpln
This tool is remarkable due to its unique dual functionality as both a RAT and a social engineering tool. As social engineering attacks become more prevalent, this software capitalizes on that vulnerability.
GitHub - AzizKpln/Social_X: A Social Engineering and Remote Access Trojan Tool
It can embed itself into nearly any file type and remains largely undetectable by antivirus software. For a deeper understanding of its functionalities and implementations, check the source code linked above. It’s an excellent opportunity to enhance your programming skills while learning valuable concepts.