
Tracking an evolving Discord-based RAT family
RL's research team analyzed four STD Group-operated RATs, which yielded file indicators to better detect the malware, plus two YARA rules.
Software deployment security refers to the practices, controls, and technologies used to ensure that only verified, untampered, and authorized software is released into production environments. It encompasses the final stage of the software development lifecycle (SDLC), focusing on protecting systems during the transition from development to live operations.
Deployment security helps safeguard application integrity, prevent unauthorized code changes, and enforce access and configuration controls during rollout.
Deployment is the last line of defense before software reaches users. If compromised, attackers can introduce backdoors, malware, or misconfigurations that affect live systems, customers, or critical infrastructure.
Effective deployment security:
Key deployment security practices include:
These controls are typically integrated into CI/CD pipelines, release management tools, and cloud orchestration platforms (e.g., Kubernetes, Terraform, ArgoCD).
Concept | Focus Area | Key Differences |
|---|---|---|
Build System Hardening | Secure software creation | Deployment security focuses on the safe release of built artifacts |
Runtime Application Security | Security in live execution | Deployment security occurs before software goes live |
Change Management | Process control | Deployment security is more technical and control-enforced |

RL's research team analyzed four STD Group-operated RATs, which yielded file indicators to better detect the malware, plus two YARA rules.

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