Pablo Guides

# Kali Linux Tool: exe2hexbat

## Section 1: Introduction to exe2hexbat

In the realm of penetration testing, having the right tools at your disposal is essential for effective security assessments. One such tool is `exe2hexbat`, which is designed to convert executable files into hexadecimal representations that can then be embedded into batch scripts. This approach helps in evading detection mechanisms in environments where direct execution of malicious binaries is restricted.

### What is exe2hexbat?

Exe2hexbat allows penetration testers and security researchers to convert executable files (EXE) into a hexadecimal format. This paradigm effectively bypasses many traditional security measures by disguising harmful payloads within seemingly innocuous batch files (BAT). The tool is particularly useful in scenarios where direct execution is not viable, such as in highly secured environments or during red team engagements.

### Installation and Configuration on Kali Linux

#### Prerequisites

Before installing `exe2hexbat`, ensure your Kali Linux system is up to date. You can do this by running:

"`bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
"`

#### Installation

1. **Install Dependencies**: `exe2hexbat` relies on certain dependencies. First, ensure you have `git` installed. If not, install it:

   sudo apt install git

 

2. **Download exe2hexbat**: Clone the repository from GitHub:

   git clone https://github.com/your-repo/exe2hexbat.git

 

3. **Navigate to the Directory**:

   cd exe2hexbat

 

4. **Make the Script Executable**: Before using the script, you might need to make it executable. Run:

   chmod +x exe2hexbat

 

#### Configuration

For basic usage, no additional configuration is needed. However, if you want to customize the tool, you might edit the script to change default output formats or manage logging.

### Step-by-Step Usage of exe2hexbat

The core functionality of `exe2hexbat` is straightforward. Below are the detailed steps to use the tool effectively, including real-world use cases.

#### Basic Usage

1. **Convert an EXE to HEX**:
To convert an executable file to a hexadecimal representation, run the following command:

   ./exe2hexbat your_executable.exe

 

This will output the hex representation directly in the terminal.

2. **Redirect Output to a File**:
If you want to save the hexadecimal output to a file, you can redirect the output:

   ./exe2hexbat your_executable.exe > output.hex

 

3. **Embed HEX into a BAT File**:
Once you have your `.hex` file, you can embed it into a batch script. Create a new BAT file and include the following code:

[/dm_code_snippet]bat
@echo off
setlocal enabledelayedexpansion
set hex=
set file=payload.exe
for /L %%i in (0,1,1023) do (
set /a "byte=0x!hex:~%%i,2!"
echo !byte! >> "%file%"
)
start %file%
[/dm_code_snippet]

#### Real-World Use Cases

1. **Bypassing Antivirus**: In a scenario where a target system has an active antivirus that blocks direct execution of downloaded binaries, embedding the executable within a batch file allows the attacker to circumvent such defenses.

2. **Social Engineering**: An attacker can send an email with a batch file that appears harmless, tricking the user into executing it. The batch file, upon execution, will recreate the original executable and execute it in memory.

3. **Red Team Exercises**: During red team assessments, professionals often need to test security mechanisms without triggering alarms. Using `exe2hexbat`, they can effectively inject payloads without being detected.

### Detailed Technical Explanations

#### Hexadecimal Representation

Hexadecimal (base-16) is a numeral system that uses sixteen symbols (0-9 and A-F) to represent values. The hexadecimal representation is commonly used in programming and computer science as it provides a more human-readable format for binary data.

When converting an executable to hexadecimal, each byte of the executable is transformed into a two-character hexadecimal string. This transformation is critical as it disguises the executable nature of the file, making it harder for heuristic-based detection systems to flag it as malicious.

#### Batch File Execution

The batch file created with the hexadecimal payload utilizes the `set` and `for` commands to reconstruct the original executable in memory. The `start` command then executes the reconstructed file, allowing the payload to run as if it were directly executed.

### External Reference Links

– [Kali Linux Tools Documentation](https://www.kali.org/tools/)
– [How to Use EXE to Hex Converter](https://example.com/exe-to-hex-guide)
– [Understanding Batch Files in Windows](https://www.howtogeek.com/660338/batch-files-in-windows-a-beginners-guide/)

### Code Examples in Markdown for WordPress

Here are formatted code examples suitable for WordPress:

"`markdown
"`bash
sudo apt update && sudo apt upgrade
sudo apt install git
git clone https://github.com/your-repo/exe2hexbat.git
cd exe2hexbat
chmod +x exe2hexbat
"`

"`bash
./exe2hexbat your_executable.exe > output.hex
"`

"`bat
@echo off
setlocal enabledelayedexpansion
set hex=
set file=payload.exe
for /L %%i in (0,1,1023) do (
set /a "byte=0x!hex:~%%i,2!"
echo !byte! >> "%file%"
)
start %file%
"`
"`

## Conclusion

`exe2hexbat` is a powerful tool in the arsenal of penetration testers, enabling them to deliver payloads stealthily and effectively. Mastering its usage will enhance your capability to conduct thorough and effective security assessments.

—

Made by pablo rotem / פבלו רותם