A backdoor is a type of cybersecurity threat that allows attackers to secretly compromise a system and conduct malicious activities, such as stealing data and modifying files. Backdoors can be difficult to detect, as they often use legitimate system applications to evade defense mechanisms. Threat actors often utilize special malware, such as PlugX, to establish backdoors on target devices.

Remote access trojans (RATs) are a type of malware that enables attackers to establish complete to partial control over infected computers. Such malicious programs often have a modular design, offering a wide range of functionalities for conducting illicit activities on compromised systems. Some of the most common features of RATs include access to the users’ data, webcam, and keystrokes. This malware is often distributed through phishing emails and links.

Trojans are a group of malicious programs distinguished by their ability to masquerade as benign software. Depending on their type, trojans possess a variety of capabilities, ranging from maintaining full remote control over the victim’s machine to stealing data and files, as well as dropping other malware. At the same time, the main functionality of each trojan family can differ significantly depending on its type. The most common trojan infection chain starts with a phishing email.