Process Injection: Simple User Protection

TL;DR

Yes, an average user can take steps to significantly reduce their risk from process injection attacks. This guide focuses on practical measures – good software habits, using built-in security features, and being cautious about what you run.

What is Process Injection?

Process injection happens when malicious code is inserted into a legitimate running process. This lets the attacker hide their activity within something that looks normal. It’s often used to avoid detection by antivirus software.

How Can You Protect Yourself?

1. Keep Your Software Updated: This is the most important thing you can do.
   • Operating System: Windows Update, macOS updates, Linux package managers (e.g., sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade on Debian/Ubuntu).
   • Applications: Enable automatic updates for your browser, office suite, PDF reader, and any other software you use regularly.
2. Use a Reputable Antivirus/Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) Solution: While not foolproof, good security software can detect many process injection attempts.
   • Make sure it’s always running and up-to-date.
   • Consider solutions with behaviour monitoring – these look for suspicious actions rather than just known malware signatures.
3. Be Careful What You Download and Run: This is where most infections start.
   • Only download software from official sources: The developer’s website, the Microsoft Store, Apple App Store, etc.
   • Beware of email attachments: Don’t open attachments from unknown senders or unexpected emails, even if they look legitimate.
   • Scan downloads before running them: Right-click and scan with your antivirus software.
4. Enable User Account Control (UAC) in Windows: UAC prompts you for permission before making changes to your system.
   • Go to Control Panel > User Accounts > Change User Account Control settings.
   • Set the slider to a level where you are prompted for most changes. Don’t disable it completely!
5. Use AppLocker or Windows Defender Application Control (WDAC) (Advanced): These features allow you to control which applications can run on your system.
   • This is more complex to set up, but provides a very strong layer of protection. It requires understanding application paths and signing certificates.
   • AppLocker: Available in Professional and Enterprise editions of Windows. Configure rules based on file path, publisher, or hash.
   • WDAC: More advanced than AppLocker; typically used in enterprise environments.
6. Be Wary of Suspicious Processes: Learn to identify normal processes.
   • Task Manager (Windows): Press Ctrl+Shift+Esc to open Task Manager. Look for processes with unusual names or high CPU/memory usage.
   • Activity Monitor (macOS): Open Activity Monitor from Applications > Utilities. Similar to Task Manager, look for suspicious activity.
7. Use a Firewall: A firewall blocks unauthorized network connections.
   • Windows Firewall is enabled by default; make sure it’s turned on and configured correctly.
   • Consider using a third-party firewall for more advanced control.

Important Considerations

Process injection attacks are constantly evolving. No single solution is perfect. A layered approach – combining multiple security measures – is the best way to protect yourself.