---
title: "BRICKSTORM Backdoor Update: CISA Releases New IOCs and Rust-Based Samples"
short_title: "CISA updates BRICKSTORM Backdoor IOCs and detection rules"
description: "CISA and partners release updated malware analysis for BRICKSTORM Backdoor, including Rust-based samples and new YARA rules. Learn how to detect and mitigate this advanced threat."
author: "Vitus"
date: 2025-01-24
categories: [Cybersecurity, Malware]
tags: [brickstorm, malware, cisa, threat-intelligence, rust-malware]
score: 0.78
cve_ids: []
---
TL;DR
CISA, the National Security Agency (NSA), and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security have updated their Malware Analysis Report (MAR) for the BRICKSTORM Backdoor, revealing new Rust-based samples and advanced evasion techniques. The update includes indicators of compromise (IOCs) and YARA rules to help organizations detect and mitigate this threat. Immediate action is recommended to scan for infections and report incidents.
---
Main Content
The cybersecurity landscape is evolving rapidly, and threat actors are increasingly leveraging sophisticated malware to bypass defenses. In a recent development, the Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA), alongside the National Security Agency (NSA) and the Canadian Centre for Cyber Security, has released an updated Malware Analysis Report (MAR) for the BRICKSTORM Backdoor. This update sheds light on new Rust-based samples and enhanced capabilities that pose significant risks to organizations worldwide.
Key Points
- New Samples Identified: The updated report includes Rust-based variants of the BRICKSTORM Backdoor, demonstrating advanced persistence and defense evasion mechanisms.
- Enhanced Detection: Two new YARA rules have been released to help organizations identify BRICKSTORM-related activity more effectively.
- Command and Control (C2): The malware now uses encrypted WebSocket connections for stealthier communication with threat actors.
- Reporting Guidance: Organizations are urged to report any detected BRICKSTORM activity to CISA’s 24/7 Operations Center for further investigation.
---
Technical Details
The BRICKSTORM Backdoor is a highly sophisticated malware designed to evade detection and maintain persistence within compromised systems. The latest update highlights several critical advancements:
1. Rust-Based Samples:
- Rust, a programming language known for its memory safety and performance, is being increasingly adopted by threat actors to create harder-to-detect malware.
- These samples leverage background services to maintain persistence, making them difficult to remove without thorough system scans.
2. Defense Evasion:
- The malware employs encrypted WebSocket connections for command and control (C2) communications, reducing the likelihood of detection by traditional security tools.
- It can also blend into legitimate traffic, further complicating identification efforts.
3. YARA Rules for Detection:
- The updated report includes two new YARA rules to assist security teams in detecting BRICKSTORM activity.
- Organizations are encouraged to integrate these rules into their threat detection frameworks to improve response times.
---
Impact Assessment
The BRICKSTORM Backdoor poses a significant threat to organizations across sectors, including government, critical infrastructure, and private enterprises. Its advanced capabilities enable threat actors to:
- Exfiltrate sensitive data without detection.
- Maintain long-term access to compromised systems.
- Bypass traditional security measures, such as firewalls and intrusion detection systems.
The inclusion of Rust-based samples indicates a shift toward more resilient and adaptable malware, which could set a precedent for future threats. Organizations must prioritize threat hunting and update their detection mechanisms to mitigate risks effectively.
---
Mitigation Steps
To protect against the BRICKSTORM Backdoor, organizations should:
1. Deploy Updated IOCs: Integrate the latest indicators of compromise provided in the MAR into security tools.
2. Implement YARA Rules: Use the new YARA rules to scan for BRICKSTORM-related activity.
3. Monitor Network Traffic: Pay close attention to WebSocket connections and encrypted traffic patterns.
4. Report Incidents: If BRICKSTORM or similar malware is detected, report it immediately to CISA’s 24/7 Operations Center at [contact@cisa.dhs.gov](mailto:contact@cisa.dhs.gov) or (888) 282-0870.
---
Conclusion
The updated BRICKSTORM Backdoor analysis underscores the growing sophistication of cyber threats and the need for proactive defense strategies. By leveraging the latest IOCs, YARA rules, and detection guidance, organizations can enhance their resilience against this advanced malware. Stay vigilant, update your security protocols, and collaborate with authorities to combat evolving cyber risks.
---
References
[^1]: Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA). "[Updated Malware Analysis Report: BRICKSTORM Backdoor](https://www.cisa.gov/news-events/analysis-reports/ar25-338a)". Retrieved 2025-01-24.
[^2]: National Security Agency (NSA). "Cybersecurity Advisories and Guidance". Retrieved 2025-01-24.
[^3]: Canadian Centre for Cyber Security. "Threat Intelligence Reports". Retrieved 2025-01-24.