Question Scanner find malware hidden in file with several functions?

[ShadowPulse]

Yes, scanners typically detect threats even if the file contains a timer to delay the activation of the malware. Scanners usually analyze not just the file itself but also its structure, signatures, and behavior. The malware will still be detected since the signatures or suspicious code elements remain the same, even if it’s scheduled for delayed activation.

Essentially, the code and bits of the malware are the same whether it’s triggered immediately or delayed, so most modern antivirus programs should be able to find it. However, for more sophisticated threats, behavior-based analysis might be needed in addition to static scanning.

 

[Oblivion99]

Maybe this will answer some of your questions.

Behavior monitoring in Microsoft Defender Antivirus - Microsoft Defender for Endpoint

Signature-Based Detection: This traditional method relies on identifying known malware patterns, but it's less effective against new threats.
Static Analysis: Scanners examine the file's structure and code without executing it to identify potential threats.

What type is Microsoft Defender scanner?
Both?

In regard of your post:
"Unlike static, signature-based detection, behavior monitoring adapts to new and evolving threats."

 

[Oblivion99]

Microsoft Defender Antivirus can provide protection in offline scenarios by regularly provisioning the latest dynamic intelligence to the endpoint throughout the day.

So in offline, its only dynamic analysis?

However, specific features like behavioral blocking and containment primarily function when the device is connected to the cloud for real-time intelligence.

This is emulator?
And only applied when online scan?
Online scan has dynamic analysis aswell?

I just wanna sure, that I understand it.

Thank you

 

[lokamoka820]

So in offline, its only dynamic analysis?

This is emulator?
And only applied when online scan?
Online scan has dynamic analysis aswell?

I just wanna sure, that I understand it.

Thank you

If you go to Windows Security > Virus and threat protection > Virus and threat protection settings > Manage settings, you will find detailed information about the functionality of each option, I hope this will help.

 

[lokamoka820]

I just wanna sure, that I understand it.

In short, MS Defender prevents malware from entering systems by using heuristic scanning, signature updates, and cloud-based services to block infected downloads. It continuously checks downloads, monitors for suspicious behavior, and identifies potential malware based on heuristic principles. Additionally, it employs frequent signature updates and cloud protection services to detect threats and protect your system faster than traditional methods.

In general, you need to be online to update the signatures (which is needed for any AV, not just MS Defender), and to submit 0-days malware to be scanned in the cloud, all other features will work even when you are offline.

 

[Oblivion99]

After a thorough reading of the thread, the below is still unanswered.
Anyone would like to try to answer it?

Thank you!

1
Obfuscation: Malware can be hidden or disguised to look like legitimate code, making it difficult for scanners to identify.
Polymorphism: Malicious code can change its form to avoid detection, requiring constant updates for scanners.
Metamorphism: Malware can modify its structure while maintaining functionality, making it even harder to detect.
Packing: Malware can be compressed or encrypted, requiring unpacking before analysis.
Time-based Activation: As you mentioned, malware can be designed to activate after a specific time, making it harder to detect before execution.

Would you trust, that Microsoft Defender scanner will detect malicious files, that use one or more of above methods?

2
We all agree, that Microsoft Defender, is an advanced scanner?

3
“Although vendors take care to “trick” the malware and perform the so called push-forward emulation, some attackers may be more clever than others. For example, instead of checking the local system time, they can query a server.”

Does Microsoft Defender Antivirus have "push-forward emulation"?