SystemBC Malware

Published: 2/20/2025

What is SystemBC malware?

SystemBC is a malware strain commonly utilized as a proxy tool to obscure malicious activities. It establishes an encrypted communication channel between infected systems and attacker-controlled servers, ensuring stealth in operations. Its primary components include SOCKS5 proxy functionality, which enables the relay of traffic through a compromised system. This malware is typically leveraged by ransomware operators and other advanced threat actors, allowing them to execute broader campaigns while staying under the radar.

When was SystemBC first discovered?

SystemBC was first identified in 2019 by security researchers who observed its use alongside exploit kits and other payloads. Its early versions were simple proxy tools, but over time, SystemBC has undergone continuous enhancement and integration into sophisticated malware campaigns.

Who created SystemBC?

The identities and number of individuals behind SystemBC remain unknown. However, its widespread use in targeted attacks and ransomware operations suggests involvement by organized cybercrime groups proficient in malware development.

What does SystemBC target?

SystemBC primarily targets Windows-based operating systems and is often deployed against enterprises, healthcare systems, and government sectors. It aligns with larger attacks that include ransomware deployment or data exfiltration. While geography is not a confinement, high-profile organizations in North America and Europe are frequent targets.

SystemBC distribution method

SystemBC is frequently distributed through exploit kits, phishing emails containing malicious attachments, and Remote Desktop Protocol (RDP) brute force attacks. It is also known to be bundled as part of malware-as-a-service campaigns, enabling cybercriminals to deploy it at scale.

Technical analysis of SystemBC malware

SystemBC operates by injecting proxy capabilities onto an infected device, enabling attackers to anonymize traffic for secondary payload delivery or command-and-control (C2) communication. Its infection process typically includes:

Payload Delivery: Delivered via exploit kits or malicious links.
Installation: Creates persistence through registry modifications or scheduled tasks.
Proxy Establishment: Configures SOCKS5 proxies to relay encrypted traffic.
Evasion: Uses encryption and obfuscation techniques to bypass detection.

Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)

MITRE ATT&CK Techniques:

T1071 - Application Layer Protocol for encrypted C2 communications.
T1080 - Taint shared content to propagate the malware.
T1572 - Protocol Tunneling via SOCKS5.

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

IPs and Domains:

[redacted-malicious-IP]
command-and-control[.]com

Hashes:

SHA256 Hash1: [redacted-hash]
SHA256 Hash2: [redacted-hash]

How to know if you’re infected with SystemBC?

Signs of infection include unusually high system resource usage, anomalous outbound traffic patterns, and logs indicating the setup of unusual proxy configurations. The presence of encrypted traffic directed to unknown endpoints is also a key indicator.

SystemBC removal instructions

To remove SystemBC, use a qualified Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) tool, such as Huntress, for thorough remediation. Disconnect the affected device from your network and perform malware scans. Ensure all potential persistence mechanisms, such as registry keys and scheduled tasks, are removed.

Is SystemBC still active?

Yes, SystemBC remains active and often evolves in functionality. It continues to be integrated into ransomware attacks and malware deployment campaigns, highlighting its enduring relevance in the threat landscape.

Mitigation & prevention strategies

The best defenses against SystemBC include:

Installing and regularly updating endpoint protection solutions like Huntress Managed EDR.
Applying patches and security updates to systems and software.
Enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA) for critical accounts.
Conducting phishing awareness training for employees to minimize email-driven attack vectors.Proactively monitoring network traffic for IoCs associated with SystemBC can significantly improve detection and response times.

FAQ

SystemBC is a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that functions as a proxy tool to enable encrypted communication between infected systems and attackers. It supports cybercriminal campaigns by masking malicious activities, delivering payloads, and evading detection using advanced obfuscation techniques.

SystemBC spreads through emails containing malicious attachments or links, exploit kits, and RDP brute force attacks. Once delivered, it installs itself by modifying registry keys or setting up scheduled tasks, ensuring persistence on the compromised system.

Yes, SystemBC remains an active threat, often used as part of ransomware campaigns and advanced persistent attacks. Its ability to evolve ensures its continued significance in the cybersecurity threat landscape.

Organizations can protect against SystemBC by implementing EDR solutions like Huntress, patching vulnerabilities promptly, enabling MFA, and providing user training to detect phishing attempts. Network traffic monitoring and prompt incident response are also critical.