BinaryAlert

BinaryAlert is designed for real-time malware detection in cloud environments, particularly for files uploaded to AWS S3 buckets. This serverless pipeline leverages AWS Lambda functions to scan files immediately upon upload using a configurable set of YARA rules. The architecture is designed to trigger alerts as soon as a match is detected, enabling rapid incident response.

Technically, BinaryAlert relies on AWS services such as S3, Lambda, and DynamoDB. Files uploaded to S3 trigger Lambda functions that execute YARA rule scans. The results are stored in a DynamoDB table, which also tracks the history of matches. The system supports various file types, including UPX-packed binaries and PDFs, and integrates with other security tools like CarbonBlack. The use of Terraform for deployment ensures consistent and version-controlled infrastructure setup.

Operationally, BinaryAlert requires careful configuration and periodic updates to maintain its effectiveness. Upgrading the system can involve destroying and re-creating DynamoDB tables to apply changes such as server-side encryption, which may result in temporary loss of match history. The system also includes a live_test feature to verify end-to-end functionality by uploading a test file that should trigger a YARA match alert.

Key technical details include the use of AWS Lambda functions with sub-minute execution times, DynamoDB for storing match history with potential retention cost implications in multi-account setups, and Terraform version 0.10+ for deployment management. The system's real-time monitoring capability is balanced against the need for periodic maintenance and configuration adjustments to ensure ongoing security efficacy.