When using a computer connected to the network, you always run the risk of becoming a hacker victim. There is no ideal system protection against intruders. Well-crafted malware can provide access and control to computer hardware. These programs work at the lowest level, i.e., it is impossible to find them, except in the case when the system uses specialized protective software.
To fight with hacker attacks efficiently, the antivirus programs must always be one step ahead, fully controlling the main processes. That’s why users asking “Is Kaspersky useful?” or “is Webroot safe?“could stay calm as their device is reliably protected. However, putting your system at no risk and ensuring the safety of data stored on the computer requires minimal knowledge of hacker tools and strategies.
Tools For Hacking
Hacking instruments are a particular type of software that allows controlling every aspect of the computer. A set of hacking tools can be run on a local machine or remotely infect a computer. Indeed, viruses, worms, and hacking kits have a lot in common. As a rule, this is a small software code that concentrates lots of essential features.
These programs try to act quietly. They often even use the same methods to achieve the desired goal, like intercepting function calls and installing patches. The worms belong to the category of transferred code.
Their payload is often used to infect a computer by delivering the worm to a specific device. A worm usually infects the target computer and writes code in the system, essentially turning into useful hacking tools.
Kernel Hacking Toolkit
Currently, hacking tools are widely used for a kernel-level attack. They are used to install plugins or device drivers that provide hardware access to the infected computer. Since these programs are assigned the highest privileges, they can be hidden entirely from other software running on the computer. Kernel-level hacking kits allow hiding files and running processes, thus creating a backdoor.
When malicious code is installed on a system, a hacker often gains access rights equivalent to a device driver or system-level program. On operating systems like Windows and UNIX, this is the full-level access. This means that all the attacked system elements can be hacked, and reliable audit data sources can no longer be trusted. It also provides that the access control code is more extensive, having less ability for control.
Call Interception
Call interception is a prevalent hacking technique for the reason of its simplicity. Of course, programs make subroutine calls. In the machine language, these function calls are converted to other kinds of calls or transition commands.
The arguments are passed to the desired function using the stack or CPU registers. When intercepting a call, the trick is to change the address in which the call gives control. This way, it is possible to replace the original function with another one that the hacker needs.
Redirecting Data With Trojan Malware
Once a hacker gains access to the system as an administrator, it is possible to consider all file integrity monitoring and tracking systems compromised. Even if the audit data and checksums are stored in a safe place, the very ability to track changes in the system is compromised.
The only exception to this rule is a case of protected hardware where the file integrity monitoring or control system is stored on a separate isolated hardware subsystem. However, this seldom happens, especially concerning standard devices.
The Peephole In The Program
One of the essential hacker skills is the ability to make changes to program code (patch installation) without changing this program’s data. This trick can be used to access data of interest.
Let’s say it is necessary to intercept information in the program without changing its execution process that could be noticed. One can apply a particular peephole patch. Note that this method’s fundamental principle is to add new code without affecting the program state.
Simple Tips To Avoid Being Hacked
To prevent hacking of the information on your computer, try to follow these simple rules:
- Be careful when working with programs from not trusted resources;
- Do not open unknown files (most likely hacking tools);
- Do not click on links in e-mail letters from unknown senders;
- Install reliable antivirus protection on your computer and update it regularly;
- Do not leave unfamiliar people alone with your computer for a long time;
- Clear cache, browser cookies (as they store passwords and browsing history).
Also, don’t forget to keep your firewall learning mode on. Pop-up warnings are a little tiring, but they are only a modest price to pay for your safety.
