What is a Rootkit? What You Need to Know to Protect Your Computer

One of the most dangerous weapons of hackers, rootkits can remain undetected on systems for months or even years. This malware is so skilfully disguised that even standard antivirus programs have difficulty detecting it.

The question of what is rootkit and how to clean it from the system is one of the most critical issues in today’s cyber security world. This software can infiltrate the deepest parts of the system, take control of the computer and carry out various malicious activities without the user’s knowledge. In this comprehensive guide, we will examine in detail what rootkit viruses are, how they work, detection methods and effective protection strategies.

What is Rootkit and How Does It Work?

One of the most insidious threats in the world of cyber security, a rootkit is a program or group of programs that persists by hiding running processes, files and system information from the operating system. This malware has the ability to infiltrate the deepest layers of computer systems.

Definition and purpose of rootkit

The main purpose of a rootkit is to gain administrator-level access to a computer while hiding that access and its own existence. Once successfully installed, they can remain undetected for years, during which time they can continuously steal information and resources.

The principle of operation of the rootkit

Rootkits usually run near or inside the kernel of the operating system and have the following basic characteristics:

• Manipulate system files and registry keys
• Ability to hide running processes and installed modules
• Monitor and modify network traffic
• Ability to record keystrokes without the user’s knowledge

When a rootkit is installed, it is usually launched at the same time as the computer’s operating system or during the boot process. Some advanced types may run before the operating system is loaded, making them very difficult to detect.

Differences of Rootkit from other malware

The most important feature that distinguishes rootkits from other malware is their ability to hide files, processes and internet connections by using system calls in their favour. Unlike normal malware, rootkits manipulate system calls by ‘hooking’ them and can change the basic functions of the operating system.

This malware is often written in low-level programming languages and can directly access the hardware layer, operating system and memory. This makes rootkits particularly difficult to detect and clean by antivirus software.

Rootkit Types and Features

Rootkits are divided into different categories according to the layer they are located in the system and their area of influence. Each type has its own characteristics and threat levels.

User-level rootkits

User-level rootkits is the most basic type of rootkit that runs in the application layer and modifies API behaviour. These rootkits can make the following changes on the system:

• Displaying incorrect system information to managers
• Blocking system callsBlocking system calls
• Filtering process outputs
• Concealment of their own existence

These types of rootkits are relatively easy to detect and clean compared to other types of malware.

Kernel level rootkits

Kernel-level rootkits are advanced threats that can control all system processes by running in the kernel module of the operating system. These rootkits work by adding their own code to the kernel of the operating system or by manipulating the system kernel. These rootkits, acting with Administrator or elevated rights, can seriously affect the stability of the system.

Hardware/BIOS rootkits

Hardware/BIOS rootkits are considered the most dangerous type of rootkit because they can persist in the system even if the operating system is reinstalled. These rootkits are

• Targets hardware components such as hard drives, routers or motherboards
• Runs during the boot process before the operating system starts
• It is hidden in the firmware, making it very difficult to detect

UEFI/BIOS rootkits are particularly dangerous because even replacing the hard disc may not be enough to eliminate this threat. Such rootkits have become more common with the development of modern technology, especially in cloud computing systems.

Rootkit Transmission Routes and Symptoms

Cybersecurity experts note that rootkit viruses use highly creative methods to infiltrate systems. Understanding the infection routes and symptoms of this malware is critical to developing effective protection strategies.

The most common methods of transmission

Rootkit viruses usually infiltrate systems through social engineering tactics. Cyber attackers infect systems with rootkits by persuading users to download software that appears trustworthy. For example, the Extended Copy Protection software distributed by Sony on its CDs in 2005 contained a hidden rootkit.

Attackers exploiting security vulnerabilities can infiltrate rootkits into computers by targeting systems that are not updated. Infected PDFs, pirated media files and applications downloaded from unreliable sources can also cause rootkit infection.

Rootkit infection symptoms

The following symptoms can be observed in systems infected with rootkit virus:

• Numerous Windows error messages and blue screen images
• Unexpected redirects and unknown bookmarks in the web browser
• Significant decrease in system performance and frequent freezes
• Unauthorised change of Windows settings
• Web pages not working properly and abnormalities in network traffic

Tools used for rootkit detection

The main tools used in rootkit detection include Malwarebytes Anti-Rootkit, Kaspersky TDSSkiller and Bitdefender Bootkit Removal tool. These tools have the ability to detect hidden processes, hidden threats and hidden system files.

Behavioural analysis is also one of the effective methods used in rootkit detection. Instead of looking for the rootkit directly, this method examines changes in system behaviour caused by it. Experts recommend scanning the computer from a known clean system if a rootkit is suspected.

Rootkit Protection Methods

Modern cyber security strategies require a proactive approach against rootkit threats. A comprehensive protection plan involves a combination of various layers of security.

Use of up-to-date security software

It is critical to use a comprehensive cyber security solution for effective rootkit protection. Modern security software uses special algorithms to detect and neutralise rootkits. This software acts as an early warning mechanism by constantly monitoring system changes caused by rootkits.

Security software should have the following basic features:

• Real-time system monitoring
• Ability to perform regular rootkit scanning
• Automatic threat blocking
• Suspicious behaviour analysis
• Firewall protection

Safe internet habits

One of the most effective ways to protect against rootkit infections is to develop safe internet usage habits. Users should be especially vigilant against phishing scams. It is of utmost importance to avoid opening suspicious emails and downloading files from unrecognised sources.

The basic principles for safe internet use are as follows:

• Download software from trusted sources only
• Do not open suspicious e-mail attachments
• Ignoring web browser security warnings
• Avoid unsecured websites

Importance of system updates

Keeping the operating system and applications up-to-date closes vulnerabilities targeted by rootkits. Regular system updates protect against newly discovered vulnerabilities and increase the overall security of the system.

Points to pay particular attention within the scope of system updates:

• Timely installation of operating system patches
• Regular application updates
• Keeping security software databases up to date
• Activating automatic update options

In terms of network security, firewalls and intrusion detection systems should be used. These tools can prevent potential rootkit attacks in advance by monitoring suspicious network activity. In addition, making regular backups and creating an effective recovery plan helps the system recover quickly after a possible rootkit attack.

Conclusion

Rootkit threats are one of the most insidious and dangerous elements of the modern cyber security world. Their ability to infiltrate deep into the system and their ability to disguise themselves make them particularly dangerous. Rootkits, which can operate at every level from the user level to the BIOS layer, can remain undetected for a long time.

Safe internet habits, up-to-date security software and regular system updates are the cornerstones of protection against rootkit threats. When suspicious changes, performance problems or unexpected behaviours are observed in the system, it is of great importance to get expert support.

Continuously improving cyber security measures and increasing user awareness is the most effective defence mechanism against complex threats such as rootkits. To ensure the security of systems, it is necessary to adopt a proactive approach and regularly review security strategies.

Frequently Asked Questions About Rootkit