NEPTUNE RAT: Windows Malware Steals Passwords from Over 270 Apps

A new cyber threat called Neptune RAT is raising concerns among Windows users, as it targets sensitive data and has advanced malicious features.

Researchers at CYFIRMA have analyzed the latest version of this Remote Access Trojan (RAT), uncovering important details about how it spreads, what it can do, and its effects on infected systems.

Neptune RAT: Technical Overview

Neptune RAT is a powerful malware built with Visual Basic .NET and shared on GitHub, Telegram, and YouTube as the “Most Advanced RAT.”

Though the source code isn’t provided, its obfuscated executables make it hard to analyze.

PowerShell Exploitation:
Version 2 uses commands like Invoke-RestMethod (irm) and Invoke-Expression (iex) to download and run malicious scripts. These scripts, often hosted on sites like catbox.moe, are saved in the victim’s AppData folder and executed to infect the system.

Neptune RAT: A Closer Look at Its Malicious Features

Neptune RAT is a powerful piece of malware loaded with dangerous capabilities:

• Steals Passwords from over 270 apps, including popular browsers like Chrome, Opera, and Brave.
• Acts as a Crypto Clipper, replacing copied wallet addresses with those controlled by attackers.
• Deploys Ransomware via a built-in module named Ransomware.dll.
• Monitors Desktops Live, giving attackers real-time access.
• Can Damage Systems by rewriting the Master Boot Record (MBR).
• Disables Antivirus Tools and alters registry settings to stay hidden.

Modular Design with DLL Files

Neptune RAT uses a range of DLLs for specific malicious tasks:

• Ransomware.dll: Encrypts files and demands Bitcoin payment.
• Chromium.dll: Steals browser-stored credentials.
• BlockAntivirus.dll: Turns off security tools.

Hard to Detect and Analyze

• Obfuscation Techniques: Uses Arabic text and emojis to hide code logic.
• High-Entropy Heaps: Stores key data like encryption keys in obscure memory areas.
• Encrypted Strings: Custom methods make internal processes harder to decode.

Neptune RAT’s advanced features and stealthy design make it a serious threat for Windows users.

Dynamic Analysis Summary

When run, Neptune RAT:

• Copies itself to the AppData Roaming folder.
• Adds a registry entry for persistence.
• Uses schtasks.exe to stay connected to the attacker’s server.
• If the ransomware module activates, it encrypts files and renames them with a “.ENC” extension.
• A ransom note appears on the desktop as “How to Decrypt My Files.html.”

Neptune RAT is a powerful and stealthy malware promoted on GitHub and personal sites, with hints of an upgraded paid version. Linked to groups like the Freemasonry team, it targets both individuals and organizations by stealing data, deploying ransomware, and evading detection through heavy obfuscation.

To stay protected, users should use strong endpoint security, monitor PowerShell activity, keep systems updated, and apply proactive threat detection. Neptune RAT highlights the need for constant vigilance in today’s evolving cyber threat landscape.

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