Hot Take What is Kernel-Level Malware and How to Protect Against It

[lokamoka820]

Malware comes in many forms, but kernel-level malware is among the most dangerous. What makes it so threatening, and how can you defend against it? Let’s explore the details below.

What Is Kernel-Level Malware?​

The kernel is the core component of an operating system, responsible for managing all interactions between hardware and software. It operates at an elevated privilege level known as “kernel mode,” which gives it unrestricted access to all system resources, including memory, CPU, and connected devices. The malware that infects and manipulates this privileged level is known as kernel-level malware.

How to Protect Against Kernel-Level Malware​

Fortunately, it’s quite challenging for kernel-level malware to infect your PC. This type of malware requires elevated permissions that the operating system doesn’t grant to unauthorized programs. Therefore, kernel-level malware typically relies on exploiting known vulnerabilities or gaining physical or remote access to an administrator account.

What to Do if Your PC Gets Infected​

Unusually high CPU usage, freezes, crashes (BSOD), and suspicious network activity are common signs of kernel-level malware infection. If you think your PC is infected, you need to act immediately. Unfortunately, you have limited options, as the malware can be very sticky.

What is Kernel-Level Malware and How to Protect Against It

Defend against kernel-level malware by understanding how it operates and the risks it poses to your system.

www.maketecheasier.com

 

[Bot]

Kernel-level malware is indeed a serious threat due to its unrestricted access to system resources. To protect against it, ensure your system is updated regularly to patch any known vulnerabilities, avoid granting elevated permissions to unauthorized programs, and be cautious of suspicious activity. If infected, immediate action is required, which may involve professional help due to the complexity of such malware.

 

[Victor M]

u didn't copy the important parts:

Use Antivirus Software with Rootkit Removal Feature​

Most antivirus software with rootkit removal features can remove most types of kernel-level malware. We recommend Malwarebytes, as it has a dedicated rootkit removal feature that is very effective.


You’ll have to enable the rootkit scan function first, as it’s disabled by default. Click on Settings in Malwarebytes, then move to the Scan and detection section. Enable the Scan for rootkits option.

Your next scan will also include the rootkit scanning function that could find the kernel-level malware infecting your PC.

Run Boot-Time Scan​

As mentioned above, a boot-time scan can detect kernel-level malware that depends on hiding itself before the boot process. You can either run the Microsoft Defender scan as we did above, or use a third-party app. Avast One has a powerful boot-time scan functionality that you can try if Microsoft Defender fails.

Reinstall Windows​

If security software is unable to catch kernel-level malware, reinstalling Windows should fix the issue. You should do a fresh install, as the current image could be infected. There are multiple ways to install Windows 11, so choose your preferred method.

 

[Sandbox Breaker]

u didn't copy the important parts:

Use Antivirus Software with Rootkit Removal Feature​

Most antivirus software with rootkit removal features can remove most types of kernel-level malware. We recommend Malwarebytes, as it has a dedicated rootkit removal feature that is very effective.


You’ll have to enable the rootkit scan function first, as it’s disabled by default. Click on Settings in Malwarebytes, then move to the Scan and detection section. Enable the Scan for rootkits option.

Your next scan will also include the rootkit scanning function that could find the kernel-level malware infecting your PC.

Run Boot-Time Scan​

As mentioned above, a boot-time scan can detect kernel-level malware that depends on hiding itself before the boot process. You can either run the Microsoft Defender scan as we did above, or use a third-party app. Avast One has a powerful boot-time scan functionality that you can try if Microsoft Defender fails.

Reinstall Windows​

If security software is unable to catch kernel-level malware, reinstalling Windows should fix the issue. You should do a fresh install, as the current image could be infected. There are multiple ways to install Windows 11, so choose your preferred method.

In my experience this will cover some of the rootkits out there.

You need to go manual to look thru kernel drivers and services, check system integrity, verify firmware signatures, look at WMI and a bunch of other places to fully determine.

PE mode also so that they can't cloak. Some rootkits can cloak so well what you can never see them whilst booted on that infected system.

I've found many nation state rootkits over the years and they are not to be messed with. Only for seasoned Vets.

 

[lokamoka820]

u didn't copy the important parts:

Use Antivirus Software with Rootkit Removal Feature​

Most antivirus software with rootkit removal features can remove most types of kernel-level malware. We recommend Malwarebytes, as it has a dedicated rootkit removal feature that is very effective.


You’ll have to enable the rootkit scan function first, as it’s disabled by default. Click on Settings in Malwarebytes, then move to the Scan and detection section. Enable the Scan for rootkits option.

Your next scan will also include the rootkit scanning function that could find the kernel-level malware infecting your PC.

Run Boot-Time Scan​

As mentioned above, a boot-time scan can detect kernel-level malware that depends on hiding itself before the boot process. You can either run the Microsoft Defender scan as we did above, or use a third-party app. Avast One has a powerful boot-time scan functionality that you can try if Microsoft Defender fails.

Reinstall Windows​

If security software is unable to catch kernel-level malware, reinstalling Windows should fix the issue. You should do a fresh install, as the current image could be infected. There are multiple ways to install Windows 11, so choose your preferred method.

I just copy the headlines and put the link for anyone interested. I will try to summarize the articles in the future posts, thanks for the recommendation.

 

[Trident]

Usually after malware has gained kernel privileges, the first thing it will do is, it will remove existing antivirus/EDR software. This is one of the main reasons why attackers want kernel privileges at the first place, so they can bypass a full stack of defences easily. The best way is to:

• Prevent malware from even gaining these privileges by using AV that blocks vulnerable driver creation, SUA and do not click on anything that looks suspicious.
• Have a system image in place and be ready to roll back to it quick
• Download a second opinion scanner, although attackers may take measures to render you unable to open security-related websites or apps.