The Anatomy of a Sidecopy Attack: From RAR Exploits to AllaKore RAT

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This report offers a detailed analysis of a recent cyberattack conducted by the APT group known as “Sidecopy,” believed to operate from Pakistan. This sophisticated operation utilized an RAR file as the initial vector to deliver a hidden payload—a malicious AllaKore Remote Access Trojan (RAT). Sidecopy’s attack demonstrates a high level of sophistication and underscores the importance of ongoing vigilance in the realm of cybersecurity.

As a response to this threat, the ThreatMon Malware Research Team conducted a comprehensive technical analysis, aiming to dissect the attack from inception to execution. The report furnishes insights into the attack’s techniques, tactics, and procedures, serving as a valuable resource for security professionals and organizations seeking to bolster their defenses against similar threats.

Key findings include:

The attack was primarily targeted at Indian Government Entities and employed a multifaceted attack chain that exploited a critical vulnerability in WinRAR (CVE-2023-38831).
This sophisticated operation utilized an RAR file as the initial vector to deliver a hidden payload—a malicious AllaKore Remote Access Trojan (RAT).
It encompasses an exploration of the WinRAR vulnerability, the intricacies of the AllaKore RAT, the specific MITRE ATT&CK techniques leveraged, a comprehensive list of Indicators of Compromise (IOCs), and a YARA rule for detection.
In an era of continually evolving cyber threats, this report acts as a crucial tool for understanding the modus operandi of APT groups like Sidecopy and reinforces the importance of proactively securing digital infrastructures against advanced adversaries.

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