Autoit

AutoIt is a type of malware, a malicious software designed to exploit and damage computers or devices. It infects systems through suspicious downloads, emails, or websites, often without the user's knowledge. Once inside, AutoIt can steal personal information, disrupt operations, or even hold data hostage for ransom. This malware is used in campaigns that employ AutoIt or AutoHotkey scripts to infect victims with DarkGate. The AutoIt script then launches command files and downloads a Python infostealer, causing further harm to the infected system. The attack chain of AutoIt involves an SFX archive that unpacks an AutoIt script and executes a file named "MicrosoftStores.exe". This file then launches the tool MeshAgent, advancing the infection within the system. Additionally, AutoIt uses a variety of programming languages including C++, .NET, Python, VBS, and AutoIt itself. Tools such as tcpview, wireshark, fiddler, procexp, df5serv, OllyDbg, x64dbg, x32dbg, WinDbg, among others, are involved in the process. In the next stage of the infection chain, two DLL files are introduced which use the same technique as the first stage: a legitimate AutoIt interpreter and another A3X implant located in the signature of the legitimate dynamic library. Interestingly, the AutoIt interpreter reads files specified in its launch argument in a unique manner. This sophisticated and multilayered approach makes AutoIt a particularly damaging and persistent form of malware.