Malware Persistence without the Windows Registry

For an attacker to maintain a foothold inside your network they will typically install a piece of backdoor malware on at least one of your systems. The malware needs to be installed persistently, meaning that it will remain active in the event of a reboot. Most persistence techniques on a Microsoft Windows platform involve the use of the Registry. Notable exceptions include the Startup Folder and trojanizing system binaries. Examining malware persistence locations in the Windows Registry and startup locations is a common technique employed by forensic investigators to identify malware on a host. Each persistence technique commonly seen today leaves a forensic footprint which can be easily collected using most forensic software on the market. - Nick Harbour

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