Facts for Prelims (FFP)
Source: IE
Context: The National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO), a specialized intelligence agency, has informed government entities, that they were targeted by the Raccoon Stealer malware.
It retrieves sensitive data from infected machines. The malware is usually delivered through email and is available as Malware-as-a-service (MaaS).
Description of terms used:
| About | Description |
| Malware | Type of software designed to harm or disrupt computer systems, networks, or devices. Can take many forms such as viruses, worms, Trojans, ransomware, and spyware. |
| MaaS | Malware-as-a-Service is a type of service that allows non-technical individuals to create and distribute malware. Anyone can subscribe to such a service on a pay basis. It is often used by cybercriminals to launch attacks against individuals or organizations. |
| Raccoon | A mammal native to North America, the largest of the procyonid family. Can carry rabies, a life-threatening disease for humans. |
| NTRO | National Technical Research Organisation (NTRO; est. 2004; HQ: New Delhi) is a technical intelligence agency under National Security Adviser in Prime Minister’s Office. It also includes the National Institute of Cryptology Research and Development (NICRD). It has the same “norms of conduct” as the Intelligence Bureau and the Research and Analysis Wing. |
