AllaKore

AllaKore is a type of Remote Access Trojan (RAT) that enables attackers to gain unauthorised access and control over targeted computer systems. Originally developed as an open-source remote administration tool, AllaKore was written in the Delphi programming language and intended for legitimate remote management. Over time, however, it was adapted and weaponised by cybercriminals for malicious purposes such as espionage, credential theft, and financial fraud.

Background and Evolution

The origin of AllaKore can be traced to the mid-2010s, when developers shared it as a simple remote desktop and file transfer tool. Because of its open-source nature, the program’s code became easily accessible to anyone. Threat actors soon began modifying the original software, adding harmful features that allowed full control of infected systems. The malware evolved through multiple versions, each more capable of evading detection and conducting stealthy operations.
In its modified form, AllaKore has been used in several cybercrime and espionage campaigns across different regions. It is now recognised as a highly adaptable RAT that can integrate with a wide range of attack infrastructures, including phishing campaigns, fake software installers, and compromised websites.

Technical Characteristics

AllaKore’s primary function is to allow attackers remote control over an infected device. It accomplishes this through a client–server architecture, where the attacker’s system (the client) connects to the victim’s machine (the server) through a command-and-control (C2) channel. The RAT includes the following major capabilities:

• Keylogging: Records all keystrokes typed by the user, allowing attackers to capture passwords, messages, and sensitive data.
• Screen capturing: Periodically takes screenshots or streams the victim’s desktop view to the attacker, enabling remote surveillance.
• File management: Allows uploading, downloading, deleting, or editing files on the infected system.
• Remote command execution: Enables attackers to run commands or scripts on the victim’s computer without physical access.
• Persistence mechanisms: Ensures the malware remains active even after system reboots by modifying system registry keys or creating hidden startup entries.
• Network communication: Uses encrypted or obfuscated channels to communicate with the C2 server, making detection by network security systems difficult.

The malware’s modular structure allows threat actors to add or remove components according to their needs, such as integrating additional tools for credential harvesting or proxy creation.

Infection and Delivery Methods

Attackers employ several delivery techniques to spread AllaKore. One common method is through phishing emails containing malicious attachments or links that install the RAT when opened. These attachments often masquerade as invoices, software updates, or legitimate documents.
Another common technique involves trojanised software installers, particularly fake updates for widely used programs. When unsuspecting users download and execute these installers, AllaKore silently installs itself in the background. Additionally, compromised websites or file-sharing platforms may host infected archives that deliver the RAT when extracted.
Some sophisticated campaigns use multi-stage delivery chains, in which a lightweight downloader first infects the target and then retrieves AllaKore from a remote server. This approach helps attackers evade detection by security software and allows them to control when the RAT is activated.

Behaviour After Infection

Once executed, AllaKore installs itself into the operating system, often hiding in system directories under innocent-sounding filenames. It then establishes a persistent connection to its command-and-control server. Through this connection, attackers can:

• Steal credentials stored in browsers or system files.
• Monitor user activity in real time.
• Use the infected device as a proxy to disguise their own online identity.
• Deploy additional malware, such as ransomware or banking trojans.

The RAT frequently employs techniques to avoid analysis, including process injection, obfuscation, and anti-debugging features. It may also disable certain system protections or antivirus functions to maintain control over the host.

Campaigns and Targets

AllaKore has been observed in numerous targeted operations, particularly against financial institutions, government agencies, and manufacturing sectors. Some campaigns have shown strong regional focus, especially in Latin American countries such as Mexico and Brazil, where attackers customised the malware to interact with local banking systems.
The motives behind these campaigns vary. Some aim to steal financial data and login credentials for monetary gain, while others focus on long-term surveillance and data exfiltration. The adaptability of AllaKore’s code allows different criminal groups to modify it according to their objectives.

Security Implications

AllaKore’s widespread use underscores several key cybersecurity challenges. Its open-source foundation makes it easy to modify and redistribute, allowing even moderately skilled attackers to deploy it effectively. Furthermore, its relatively small footprint and flexible command structure enable stealthy, prolonged intrusions that are difficult to detect without advanced monitoring tools.
From an organisational perspective, the RAT poses a severe threat because it grants full remote access to compromised systems. Attackers can exfiltrate confidential data, manipulate operational systems, or use the infected network as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks. This makes AllaKore not only a tool for financial theft but also a potential instrument for industrial espionage or infrastructure disruption.

Detection and Mitigation

To defend against AllaKore and similar remote access trojans, organisations should adopt a layered security strategy that combines user education, technical defences, and continuous monitoring. Recommended measures include:

• Email security and awareness: Train employees to recognise phishing emails and avoid downloading attachments from unknown sources.
• Endpoint protection: Use updated antivirus and endpoint detection systems capable of identifying RAT behaviours rather than relying solely on signatures.
• Network monitoring: Analyse outgoing network traffic for suspicious or encrypted communications to unknown servers.
• Access control: Restrict administrative privileges and enforce strong authentication mechanisms.
• Patch management: Regularly update operating systems and software to close vulnerabilities that could be exploited for malware delivery.
• Incident response planning: Establish procedures for isolating infected devices and conducting forensic analysis to identify the attack’s source and scope.

Additionally, employing behaviour-based detection can help identify unusual activities, such as repeated unauthorised login attempts, new registry modifications, or hidden processes running in the background.

Challenges and Limitations

Defending against AllaKore poses challenges due to its evolving structure. Each variant may use different obfuscation techniques or network protocols, which can render static detection ineffective. Moreover, since AllaKore is publicly available and easily altered, it is difficult to track specific threat actors or attribute attacks definitively.
Another limitation is the human factor—many infections occur because users unknowingly execute malicious attachments or updates. As such, technical controls must be complemented with regular cybersecurity awareness training and strict enforcement of IT policies.

Future Outlook

AllaKore is expected to continue evolving as cybercriminals refine its features and develop new variants. Future versions are likely to incorporate stronger encryption, better stealth mechanisms, and integration with other malware families. Attackers may also target emerging platforms, such as Internet of Things (IoT) devices or cloud environments, to broaden their control network.
As cybersecurity measures become more sophisticated, threat actors are expected to combine AllaKore with multi-stage attack strategies, using it as a secondary payload within complex malware chains. This trend highlights the need for proactive defence, regular threat intelligence updates, and cross-sector collaboration to identify and disrupt its use.