CHMbased

CHMbased refers to a classification of malware that targets the Microsoft Compiled HTML Help (CHM) file format. CHM files are a proprietary help file format developed by Microsoft. They are essentially a compressed archive containing HTML pages, images, and an index, designed to be browsed offline.

Malware disguised as CHM files can exploit vulnerabilities in the CHM interpreter or trick users into opening malicious archives. Once executed, this malware can perform various malicious actions, such as stealing data, installing other malicious software, or gaining unauthorized access to the system. The deceptive nature of CHM files, often appearing as legitimate software documentation or help guides, makes them a common vector for social engineering attacks.

Security measures to mitigate CHM-based malware include keeping operating systems and antivirus software updated, exercising caution when downloading files from untrusted sources, and disabling the CHM help system if it is not frequently used. Researchers and security professionals continuously monitor and develop methods to detect and neutralize CHM-based threats to protect users from potential harm. The effectiveness of CHM-based malware often depends on the user's awareness and the security posture of their system.