Category: Kernel Debugging

Techniques for analyzing binaries or kernel modules that may try to monitor themselves, similar to malware behavior. To avoid detection during analysis, one approach is to use an hypervisor like QEMU to conduct research within a virtualized environment. Although the target may realize it is running in a virtual machine, this usually does not trigger suspicion, as hypervisors are common in modern environments. This method allows for detailed analysis while maintaining stealth, making it effective in scenarios where the target must not detect the monitoring.

This is the second of two blog posts about macOS kernel debugging. In the previous post, we defined most of the terminology used in both articles, described how kernel debugging is implemented for the macOS kernel and discussed the limitations of the available tools; here, we present LLDBagility, our solution for an easier and more functional macOS debugging experience.

This is the first of two blog posts about macOS kernel debugging. Here, we introduce what kernel debugging is, explain how it is implemented for the macOS kernel and discuss the limitations that come with it; in the second post, we will present our solution for a better macOS debugging experience.