journal article·2025-11-05Open access

MemCatcher: An In-Depth Analysis Approach to Detect In-Memory Malware

Andri Rai, Eul Gyu Im

Applied Sciences· Volume 15· Issue 21

Abstract

Recent advancements in cyber threats have led to increasingly sophisticated attack methods that evade traditional malware detection systems. In-memory malware, a particularly challenging variant, operates by modifying volatile memory, leaving minimal traces on secondary storage. This paper presents an in-depth analysis of in-memory malware characteristics, behavior, and evasion strategies. We propose “MemCatcher”, a novel detection algorithm that integrates real-time system activity monitoring and memory analysis to effectively identify these threats from the Windows 10 system. Experimental validation using real-world and synthetic in-memory malware samples demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach. Additionally, we analyze evasion tactics using “Volatility3” and “PEview”, providing insights into countermeasures. Future work will focus on enhancing in-memory malware detection using “Processor-in-Memory (PIM) hardware”.
Source: crossref · Quality: baseline

Research context

OpenAlex topics: Security and Verification in Computing · Advanced Malware Detection Techniques · Digital and Cyber Forensics

SciVX discovery tags are terminology-based. OpenAlex topics are source-provided classifications.

Affiliations

Department of Computer Science, Hanyang University, Seoul 04763, Republic of Korea

Funding

IITP Korea

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