Using ANY.RUN for Identifying Executable Files that Download Additional Payloads: A Dynamic Approach

In today’s cybersecurity landscape, detecting and analyzing malware is more critical than ever. Malicious executables often mask their true nature and behavior, which makes identifying and mitigating them challenging. Static analysis is a traditional approach in malware detection, examining files without executing them. However, interactive sandbox analysis tools like ANY.RUN, a popular interactive malware analysis platform, can often reveal far more about an executable’s behavior, especially when it comes to identifying files that download other malicious payloads. This article explores how ANY.RUN can be effectively used to identify executables that download additional files and why it is a superior option compared to static analysis in these cases.

The Limitations of Static Analysis

Static analysis involves examining the code or file structure of an executable without actually running it. While it’s useful for identifying certain characteristics, such as packed files, strings, or known patterns associated with malware, it falls short when it comes to complex or polymorphic malware. Static analysis faces significant limitations in detecting files that require active interaction with the operating environment to execute malicious behavior.

Some specific challenges include:

1. Obfuscation: Malware authors use obfuscation techniques like packing or…