Book Image

Learning Linux Binary Analysis

By : Ryan "elfmaster" O'Neill
Book Image

Learning Linux Binary Analysis

By: Ryan "elfmaster" O'Neill

Overview of this book

Learning Linux Binary Analysis is packed with knowledge and code that will teach you the inner workings of the ELF format, and the methods used by hackers and security analysts for virus analysis, binary patching, software protection and more. This book will start by taking you through UNIX/Linux object utilities, and will move on to teaching you all about the ELF specimen. You will learn about process tracing, and will explore the different types of Linux and UNIX viruses, and how you can make use of ELF Virus Technology to deal with them. The latter half of the book discusses the usage of Kprobe instrumentation for kernel hacking, code patching, and debugging. You will discover how to detect and disinfect kernel-mode rootkits, and move on to analyze static code. Finally, you will be walked through complex userspace memory infection analysis. This book will lead you into territory that is uncharted even by some experts; right into the world of the computer hacker.
Table of Contents (17 chapters)
Learning Linux Binary Analysis
Credits
About the Author
Acknowledgments
About the Reviewers
www.PacktPub.com
Preface
Index

Summary


In this chapter, you learned about the importance of the ptrace system call and how it can be used in conjunction with viruses and memory infections. On the flip side, it is a powerful tool for security researchers, reverse engineering, and advanced hot patching techniques.

The ptrace system call will be used periodically throughout the rest of this book. Let this chapter serve only as a primer.

In the next chapter, we will cover the exciting world of Linux ELF virus infection and the engineering practices behind virus creation.