Proactive detection of algorithmically generated malicious domains

Abstract

Using an intrinsic feature of malicious domain name queries prior to their registration (perhaps due to clock drift), we devise a difference-based lightweight feature for malicious domain name detection. Using NXDomain query and response of a popular malware, we establish the effectiveness of our detector with 99% accuracy, and as early as more than 48 hours before they are registered. Our technique serves as a tool of detection where other techniques relying on entropy or domain generating algorithms reversing are impractical.