Powsect

Powsect is a term that has emerged in discussions related to cybersecurity and malware analysis. It refers to a specific type of malicious software that targets the Windows operating system. While not a universally recognized or formally defined category by cybersecurity researchers, "powsect" appears to be a portmanteau combining "PowerShell" and "sect" (likely short for "sector" or "section" in a technical context).

The core functionality attributed to powsect malware involves leveraging PowerShell, a powerful command-line shell and scripting language built into Windows, to execute malicious operations. This can include downloading and running other malware, stealing credentials, exfiltrating data, or creating backdoors for remote access. The use of PowerShell is a common technique among attackers as it allows for stealthy execution, often bypassing traditional signature-based antivirus solutions that may not adequately monitor script execution.

Analysis of powsect samples suggests they are often delivered through phishing emails, malicious websites, or other exploit vectors. Once executed, the PowerShell script can perform a variety of actions depending on its specific payload. Due to its reliance on scripting, powsect is considered a form of fileless malware, meaning it may not leave traditional executable files on the system, making detection and removal more challenging. Security professionals often focus on monitoring PowerShell script execution and network traffic to identify and mitigate such threats.