Hexadecimal File Modification (Hex Editing)

• Description: Hex editing involves directly modifying the raw binary content (the hexadecimal code) of a file using a hex editor tool (like HxD, ImHex, 010 Editor).

• Mechanism: Bypassers might use hex editing on cheat executables (.exe) or libraries (.dll) to:

  • Change specific strings or identifiers within the file to evade simple string-based detections in memory scanners or SS tools.

  • Attempt to slightly alter the code structure to change the file's hash value, potentially bypassing basic hash-based blocklists (though this rarely bypasses robust signature detection).

  • Patch out anti-screenshare checks (e.g., code that detects AnyDesk and exits) or modify embedded configurations.

• Why Cheaters Use It: Primarily to evade detection by altering the file's content signature (hash) or removing easily identifiable strings, or sometimes to disable built-in anti-cheat/anti-screenshare mechanisms within the cheat itself.

• Detection:

  • Hash Mismatch/Signature Verification: Any modification to the binary content will inevitably change the file's cryptographic hash (MD5, SHA1, SHA256). Comparing the hash of the suspect file against the known hash of the legitimate/original version (if available) will reveal tampering. File signature validation tools (like BACA's script or Get-AuthenticodeSignature) will report a HashMismatch status for legitimately signed files that have been hex edited after signing. Unsigned files that have been hex edited will remain unsigned but their hash will differ from any known baseline.

  • USN Journal ($UsnJrnl): Direct modification of file content typically generates events like DATA_OVERWRITE | CLOSE, DATA_EXTEND | CLOSE, or potentially STREAM_CHANGE | CLOSE in the USN Journal, associated with the hex-edited file. Finding these entries coinciding with signature check failures or other suspicious indicators strengthens the case for hex editing.

  • Manual Analysis (Advanced): Comparing the hex dump of the suspect file against a known clean version can reveal the exact modifications made.