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Malicious Campaign
Cyber Fraud Fake Hiring GitHub Infostealer Malicious Campaign

Developers Face a Challenge with Fake Hiring That Steals Private Data

 

Cyble threat intelligence researchers discovered a GitHub repository posing as a hiring coding challenge, tricking developers into downloading a backdoor that steals private data. The campaign employs a variety of novel approaches, including leveraging a social media profile for command and control (C&C) activities rather than C&C servers. Cyble Research and Intelligence Labs (CRIL) researchers discovered invoice-themed lures, suggesting that the campaign may be moving beyond a fake hiring challenge for developers. 

According to a blog post by Cyble researchers, 
the campaign appears to target Polish-speaking developers, and the malware exploits geofencing to restrict execution. The researchers believed that the campaign is disseminated through career sites such as LinkedIn or regional development forums. 

The fake recruitment test, dubbed "FizzBuzz," dupes users into downloading an ISO file containing a JavaScript exercise and a malicious LNK shortcut. When executed, the LNK file ("README.lnk") invokes a PowerShell script that installs a stealthy backdoor known as "FogDoor" by the researchers. 

Instead of employing C&C servers, FogDoor communicates with a social media platform using a Dead Drop Resolver (DDR) mechanism to retrieve attack directives from a profile, according to the researchers. The malware employs geofencing to limit execution to Polish victims. 

When it becomes operational, "it systematically steals browser cookies, Wi-Fi credentials, and system data, staging them for exfiltration before deleting traces," Cyble told reporters. The malware employs remote debugging to collect Chrome cookies and can work in the background, while Firefox credentials are obtained from profile directories. 

PowerShell script establishes persistence 

The PowerShell script also opens a "README.txt" file "to trick consumers into believing they are interacting with a harmless file," Cyble stated. This paper includes instructions for a code bug patch task, "making it appear innocuous while ensuring the PowerShell script executes only once on the victim's machine to carry out malicious activities." 

The PowerShell script also downloads an executable file and saves it as "SkyWatchWeather.exe" in the "C:\Users\Public\Downloads" folder. It then creates a scheduled task called "Weather Widget," which executes the downloaded file using mshta.exe and VBScript and is set to run every two minutes indefinitely. 

SkyWatchWeather.exe serves as a backdoor by utilising a social networking platform (bark.lgbt) and a temporary webhook service (webhookbin.net) as its command and control infrastructure. After authenticating its location, the malware attempts to connect to "bark.lgbt/api" in order to get further orders embedded in a social media platform's profile information. Cyble added that this setup complicates identification and removal operations.
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Malwares
Arcane Cyber Attacks Data Safety User Data data security Data Stealer Discord Infostealer Infostealer Malware Kaspersky Malwares

Arcane Malware Steals VPN, Gaming, and Messaging Credentials in New Cyber Threat

 

A newly identified malware strain, Arcane, is making headlines for its ability to steal a vast range of user data. This malicious software infiltrates systems to extract sensitive credentials from VPN services, gaming platforms, messaging apps, and web browsers. Since its emergence in late 2024, Arcane has undergone several modifications, increasing its effectiveness and expanding its reach. 

Unlike other cyber threats with long-established histories, Arcane is not linked to previous malware versions carrying a similar name. Analysts at Kaspersky have observed that the malware primarily affects users in Russia, Belarus, and Kazakhstan. This is an unusual pattern, as many Russian-based cybercriminal groups tend to avoid targeting their home region to steer clear of legal consequences. 

Additionally, communications linked to Arcane’s operators suggest that they are Russian-speaking, reinforcing its likely origin. The malware spreads through deceptive content on YouTube, where cybercriminals post videos promoting game cheats and cracked software. Viewers are enticed into downloading files that appear legitimate but contain hidden malware. Once opened, these files initiate a process that installs Arcane while simultaneously bypassing Windows security settings. 

This allows the malware to operate undetected, giving hackers access to private information. Prior to Arcane, the same group used a different infostealer known as VGS, a modified version of an older trojan. However, since November 2024, they have shifted to distributing Arcane, incorporating a new tool called ArcanaLoader. This fake installer claims to provide free access to premium game software but instead delivers the malware. 

It has been heavily marketed on YouTube and Discord, with its creators even offering financial incentives to content creators for promoting it. Arcane stands out because of its ability to extract detailed system data and compromise various applications. It collects hardware specifications, scans installed software, and retrieves login credentials from VPN clients, communication platforms, email services, gaming accounts, and cryptocurrency wallets. Additionally, the malware captures screenshots, which can expose confidential information visible on the victim’s screen. 

Though Arcane is currently targeting specific regions, its rapid evolution suggests it could soon expand to a broader audience. Cybersecurity experts warn that malware of this nature can lead to financial theft, identity fraud, and further cyberattacks. Once infected, victims must reset all passwords, secure compromised accounts, and ensure their systems are thoroughly cleaned. 

To reduce the risk of infection, users are advised to be cautious when downloading third-party software, especially from unverified sources. Game cheats and pirated programs often serve as delivery methods for malicious software, making them a significant security threat. Avoiding these downloads altogether is the safest approach to protecting personal information.
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Microsoft
Cyber Attacks GitHub Infostealer Malvertising Microsoft

Microsoft Warns of Malvertising Campaign Impacting Over 1 Million Devices Worldwide

 

Microsoft has revealed details of a large-scale malvertising campaign that is believed to have impacted over one million devices worldwide as part of an opportunistic attack aimed at stealing sensitive information. 

The tech giant, which discovered the activity in early December 2024, is tracking it under the broader Storm-0408 umbrella, which refers to a group of attackers known for distributing remote access or information-stealing malware via phishing, search engine optimisation (SEO), or malvertising.

"The attack originated from illegal streaming websites embedded with malvertising redirectors, leading to an intermediary website where the user was then redirected to GitHub and two other platforms," the Microsoft Threat Intelligence team stated. "The campaign impacted a wide range of organizations and industries, including both consumer and enterprise devices, highlighting the indiscriminate nature of the attack.”

The campaign relied on GitHub to deliver initial access payloads, but payloads were also detected on Discord and Dropbox. The GitHub repositories were removed, but the number of such repositories was not disclosed. The Microsoft-owned code hosting service serves as a staging ground for dropper malware, which deploys a series of ads.

The Microsoft-owned code hosting site serves as a staging ground for dropper malware, which is in charge of launching a number of further programs such as Lumma Stealer and Doenerium, which can then collect system information. The assault also uses a sophisticated redirection chain with four to five layers, with the first redirector embedded in an iframe element on unlawful streaming websites that serve pirated content.

The entire infection sequence consists of several stages, including system discovery, information collecting, and the employment of follow-on payloads like NetSupport RAT and AutoIT scripts to assist more data theft. The remote access trojan also acts as a gateway for stealer malware. 

  • First stage: Establish a footing on target devices.
  • Second stage: system reconnaissance, collection, exfiltration, and payload delivery. 
  • Third stage: It involves command execution, payload delivery, defence evasion, persistence, command-and-control communications, and data exfiltration. 
  • Fourth stage: PowerShell script for configuring Microsoft Defender exclusions and running commands to download data from a remote server. 

Another feature of the assaults is the use of numerous PowerShell scripts to download NetSupport RAT, identify installed apps and security software, and scan for the presence of cryptocurrency wallets, which indicates possible financial data theft.

"Besides the information stealers, PowerShell, JavaScript, VBScript, and AutoIT scripts were run on the host," Microsoft said. "The threat actors incorporated use of living-off-the-land binaries and scripts (LOLBAS) like PowerShell.exe, MSBuild.exe, and RegAsm.exe for C2 and data exfiltration of user data and browser credentials.” 

The disclosure comes after Kaspersky reported that fake websites masquerading as DeepSeek and Grok artificial intelligence (AI) chatbots are being used to lure users into installing a previously unknown Python information stealer.

DeekSeek-themed decoy sites promoted by verified accounts on X (e.g., @ColeAddisonTech, @gaurdevang2, and @saduq5) have also been used to run a PowerShell script that leverages SSH to enable attackers remote access to the machine. 

"Cybercriminals use various schemes to lure victims to malicious resources,' the Russian cybersecurity company noted. "Typically, links to such sites are distributed through messengers and social networks. Attackers may also use typosquatting or purchase ad traffic to malicious sites through numerous affiliate programs.”
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Malwares
Cyber Attacks cybercriminals data security Data Theft Hackers Infostealer Infostealer Malware Malware attacks Malwares

The Growing Threat of Infostealer Malware: What You Need to Know

 

Infostealer malware is becoming one of the most alarming cybersecurity threats, silently stealing sensitive data from individuals and organizations. This type of malware operates stealthily, often going undetected for long periods while extracting valuable information such as login credentials, financial details, and personal data. As cybercriminals refine their tactics, infostealer attacks have become more frequent and sophisticated, making it crucial for users to stay informed and take preventive measures. 

A significant reason for concern is the sheer scale of data theft caused by infostealers. In 2024 alone, security firm KELA reported that infostealer malware was responsible for leaking 3.9 billion passwords and infecting over 4.3 million devices worldwide. Similarly, Huntress’ 2025 Cyber Threat Report revealed that these threats accounted for 25% of all cyberattacks in the previous year. This data highlights the growing reliance of cybercriminals on infostealers as an effective method of gathering personal and corporate information for financial gain. 

Infostealers operate by quietly collecting various forms of sensitive data. This includes login credentials, browser cookies, email conversations, banking details, and even clipboard content. Some variants incorporate keylogging capabilities to capture every keystroke a victim types, while others take screenshots or exfiltrate files. Cybercriminals often use the stolen data for identity theft, unauthorized financial transactions, and large-scale corporate breaches. Because these attacks do not immediately disrupt a victim’s system, they are harder to detect, allowing attackers to extract vast amounts of information over time. Hackers distribute infostealer malware through multiple channels, making it a widespread threat. 

Phishing emails remain one of the most common methods, tricking victims into downloading infected attachments or clicking malicious links. However, attackers also embed infostealers in pirated software, fake browser extensions, and even legitimate platforms. For example, in February 2025, a game called PirateFi was uploaded to Steam and later found to contain infostealer malware, compromising hundreds of devices before it was removed. Social media platforms, such as YouTube and LinkedIn, are also being exploited to spread malicious files disguised as helpful tools or software updates. 

Beyond stealing data, infostealers serve as an entry point for larger cyberattacks. Hackers often use stolen credentials to gain unauthorized access to corporate networks, paving the way for ransomware attacks, espionage, and large-scale financial fraud. Once inside a system, attackers can escalate their access, install additional malware, and compromise more critical assets. This makes infostealer infections not just an individual threat but a major risk to businesses and entire industries.  

The prevalence of infostealer malware is expected to grow, with attackers leveraging AI to improve phishing campaigns and developing more advanced evasion techniques. According to Check Point’s 2025 Cybersecurity Report, infostealer infections surged by 58% globally, with Europe, the Middle East, and Africa experiencing some of the highest increases. The SYS01 InfoStealer campaign, for instance, impacted millions across multiple continents, showing how widespread the issue has become. 

To mitigate the risks of infostealer malware, individuals and organizations must adopt strong security practices. This includes using reliable antivirus software, enabling multi-factor authentication (MFA), and avoiding downloads from untrusted sources. Regularly updating software and monitoring network activity can also help detect and prevent infections. Given the growing threat, cybersecurity awareness and proactive defense strategies are more important than ever.
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Visual Studio Code
Infostealer LNK File malware Phantom Goblin Visual Studio Code

Phantom Goblin: An Emerging Menace in Credential Theft and Remote System Access

 

A complex malware campaign dubbed "Phantom Goblin" has been discovered, which employs social engineering techniques to install information-stealing malware. The malware is distributed by RAR attachments in spam messages, which includes a poisoned shortcut file posing as a PDF. 

When executed, the LNK file launches a PowerShell operation to download further payloads from a GitHub repository, ensuring persistence by generating a registry entry that starts at system boot. These payloads, such as "updater.exe," "vscode.exe," and "browser.exe," spoof legitimate apps, which complicates detection. 

The malware primarily targets web browsers and development tools to steal sensitive data. It harvests cookies, login passwords, and browsing history by forcing browsers such as Chrome, Brave, and Edge to shut down. The "updater.exe" payload allows remote debugging to bypass Chrome's App Bound Encryption (ABE) and achieve covert data exfiltration. The stolen information is subsequently transferred to a Telegram channel via the Telegram Bot API. This approach allows cybercriminals to access data in real time without suspicion. 

Phantom Goblin also uses Visual Studio Code (VSCode) tunnels for remote unauthorised access. The "vscode.exe" payload downloads a legitimate version of VSCode, unpacks it, and creates a tunnel to maintain persistent control over compromised PCs. These connection credentials are passed to a Telegram bot, which allows remote access without triggering traditional security notifications. 

Prevention tips

Several best practices are recommended by experts to safeguard systems against Phantom Goblin and similar threats:

Email Filtering: Use advanced filtering techniques to block suspicious attachments, especially those in RAR, ZIP, or LNK format. Before opening any attachments, be sure they have been scanned with the latest antivirus software. 

Disabling VSCode tunnels: Enforce access controls and authentication measures to prevent unauthorised users from using Visual Studio Code tunnels. Limiting the ability to use VSCode on sensitive systems can help prevent remote access. 

PowerShell Restrictions: Disable or limit the use of PowerShell and script execution on computers unless absolutely necessary. Monitoring for suspicious PowerShell activity, such as script execution from external sources, can assist detect and prevent malicious operations. 

Browser Security: Use strong browser security mechanisms to prevent unauthorised debugging and limit access to sensitive data stored within browsers. Enforcing multi-factor authentication (MFA) and session timeouts can assist to secure browser-based credentials.
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remote access
Data Leak Infostealer malware Microsoft Teams remote access

Cybercriminals Abuse Microsoft Teams & Quick Assist for Remote Access

 

Trend Micro security experts discovered a sophisticated cyberattack that included social engineering tactics and commonly employed remote access tools. The attack, which uses stealthy infostealer malware, gives thieves permanent access over vulnerable PCs and allows them to steal sensitive data.

According to Trend Micro Threat Intelligence, the majority of incidents since October 2024 have been concentrated in North America, with 21 breaches reported. The US was the most affected, with 17 cases, followed by Canada and the United Kingdom, each with five. Europe documented a total of 18 incidents. 

Modus operandi 

Threat actors utilise social engineering techniques to acquire initial access by deceiving victims into submitting credentials. Microsoft Teams is used for impersonation, and Quick Assist and other remote access applications allow attackers to escalate privileges. OneDriveStandaloneUpdater.exe, a genuine OneDrive update application, is used to sideload malicious DLLs and grant attackers network access.

Subsequently, the attackers install BackConnect malware, which allows them to keep control of affected systems. Malicious files are hosted and propagated via commercial cloud storage services, leveraging misconfigured or publicly available storage buckets. 

The BackConnect malware has been linked by researchers to QakBot, a loader malware that was the focus of the 2023 takedown effort called "Operation Duckhunt." Access to target computers by Black Basta ransomware attackers was made possible in large part via QakBot. After it was taken down, these threat actors switched to alternative methods to continue operating. 

Black Basta and Cactus ransomware link 

Trend Micro analysts recently investigated cases in which the Black Basta and Cactus ransomware perpetrators used the identical BackConnect malware. This malware allows cybercriminals to execute commands remotely, steal credentials, and steal financial information.

In 2023, Black Basta alone extorted $107 million from victims, with manufacturing the largest hit, followed by financial sectors and real estate. Attackers also utilised WinSCP, an open-source file transfer client, to move data within infected systems. The infected files were first acquired from a cloud storage provider before being repackaged and distributed using system vulnerabilities. 

Further investigation into Black Basta's internal chat breaches indicates that members of the gang are now using Cactus ransomware. Researchers believe that this transition will allow Cactus to remain a major threat by 2025.
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Password Manager
Credentials cyber attack Cybersecurity Digital Security Hacking Infostealer malware MFA Password Manager

Cybercriminals Intensify Attacks on Password Managers

 

Cybercriminals are increasingly setting their sights on password managers as a way to infiltrate critical digital accounts.

According to Picus Security’s Red Report 2025, which analyzed over a million malware samples from the past year, a quarter (25%) of all malware now targets credentials stored in password managers. Researchers noted that this marks a threefold surge compared to the previous year.

“For the first time ever, stealing credentials from password stores is in the top 10 techniques listed in the MITRE ATT&CK Framework,” they said. “The report reveals that these top 10 techniques accounted for 9Beyond the growing frequency of attacks, hackers are also deploying more advanced techniques. 3% of all malicious actions in 2024.”

Advanced Hacking Techniques

Dr. Suleyman Ozarslan, co-founder and VP of Picus Labs, revealed that cybercriminals use sophisticated methods like memory scraping, registry harvesting, and breaching both local and cloud-based password stores to extract credentials.

To counter this rising threat, Ozarslan emphasized the importance of using password managers alongside multi-factor authentication (MFA). He also warned against password reuse, particularly for password.

Beyond the growing frequency of attacks, hackers are also deploying more advanced techniques. Picus Security highlighted that modern cybercriminals are now favoring long-term, multi-stage attacks that leverage a new generation of malware. These advanced infostealers are designed for stealth, persistence, and automation.

Researchers compared this evolution in cyber threats to “the perfect heist,” noting that most malware samples execute over a dozen malicious actions to bypass security defenses, escalate privileges, and exfiltrate data.

A password manager is a cybersecurity tool that securely stores, generates, and auto-fills strong passwords across websites and apps. By eliminating the need to remember multiple passwords, it strengthens security and reduces the risk of breaches. Experts consider it an essential component of cybersecurity best practices.
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malware
fake ads Google Ads Infostealer Malicious Campaign malware

Hackers Employ Fake Mac Homebrew Google Ads in Novel Malicious Campaign

 

Hackers are once more exploiting Google advertisements to disseminate malware, using a fake Homebrew website to compromise Macs and Linux systems with an infostealer that harvests credentials, browsing data, and cryptocurrency wallets. 

Ryan Chenkie discovered the fraudulent Google ad campaign and warned on X regarding the potential of malware infection. The malware employed in this operation is AmosStealer (aka 'Atomic'), an infostealer intended for macOS devices and sold to malicious actors on a monthly subscription basis for $1,000. 

The malware recently appeared in various malvertising campaigns promoting bogus Google Meet conferencing pages, and it is now the preferred stealer for fraudsters targeting Apple customers. 

Targeting Homebrew customers 

Homebrew is a popular open-source package manager for macOS and Linux that lets you install, update, and manage software using the command line. 

A fraudulent Google advertising featured the correct Homebrew URL, "brew.sh," misleading even seasoned users into clicking it. However, the ad redirected users to a bogus Homebrew website hosted at "brewe.sh". Malvertisers have extensively exploited this URL strategy to trick users into visiting what appears to be a legitimate website for a project or organisation.

When the visitor arrives at the site, he or she is requested to install Homebrew by copying and pasting a command from the macOS Terminal or Linux shell prompt. The official Homebrew website provides a similar command for installing legitimate software. However, running the command displayed on the bogus website will download and execute malware on the device. 

Cybersecurity expert JAMESWT discovered that the malware injected in this case [VirusTotal] is Amos, a potent infostealer that targets over 50 cryptocurrency extensions, desktop wallets, and online browser data. Mike McQuaid, Homebrew's project leader, indicated that the project is aware of the situation but that it is beyond its control, criticising Google's lack of oversight. 

"Mac Homebrew Project Leader here. This seems taken down now," McQuaid stated on X. "There's little we can do about this really, it keeps happening again and again and Google seems to like taking money from scammers. Please signal-boost this and hopefully someone at Google will fix this for good.”

At the time of writing, the malicious ad has been removed, but the campaign could still run through other redirection domains, therefore Homebrew users should be aware of sponsored project adverts.

To mitigate the risk of malware infection, while clicking on a link in Google, make sure you are directed to the authentic site for a project or company before entering sensitive information or installing software. Another safe option is to bookmark official project websites that you need to visit frequently when sourcing software and utilise them instead of searching online every time.
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Telefónica
Data Breach Infostealer Private Data Telecom Firm Telefónica

Hackers Breach Telefónica's internal Ticketing System, Stealing 2.3GB of Sensitive Data

 

The hackers employed information stealer malware to steal the credentials of several Telefonica employees and gain access to the company's internal ticketing system.

The data breach was revealed last week when members of the Hellcat ransomware group (which had previously claimed responsibility for the Schneider Electric attack) boasted on the BreachForums cybercrime website about stealing customer data, ticket data, and hundreds of files from the Spain-based telecom provider.

According to cybersecurity firm Hudson Rock, the attack was "facilitated by a combination of infostealer malware and sophisticated social engineering techniques". 

The attackers told Hudson Rock that they utilised custom infostealer malware to breach the credentials of over 15 Telefonica employees and get access to the firm's Jira platform. After getting access to the platform, the attackers apparently targeted two employees with administrator credentials, "tricking them into revealing the correct server for brute-forcing SSH access".

The perpetrators stole a list of 24,000 Telefonica staff emails and identities, 500,000 summaries of internal Jira issues, and 5,000 internal documents, which included internal email chats and other contents. The stolen data could expose Telefonica personnel to phishing and other forms of social engineering attacks, as well as operational details, security flaws in the company's infrastructure, strategic goals, and other sensitive internal information. 

Hudson Rock claims that last year, 531 employee PCs connected to Telefonica's network were infected with infostealers, possibly exposing company credentials on each machine. Additionally, it seems that the company did not implement corporate infrastructure password policies that were robust. 

“For the URL linked to the initial access, the passwords were even weaker, indicating that it wouldn’t have taken an infostealer infection for hackers to brute force their way in,” the cybersecurity firm noted.

In other cases of infostealer infections, Telefonica employees' credentials to third-party services such as Fortinet, Office 365, and Salesforce were stolen.

“These infections provide hackers with the necessary credentials to infiltrate systems and, as demonstrated in this case, can be leveraged to expand access further through sophisticated social engineering tactics. Infostealers serve as a stepping stone for more advanced attacks, making them a significant concern for organizations worldwide,” Hudson Rock added.

In response to a local media outlet's request, Telefonica confirmed the incident but declined to provide any other details on the potentially compromised data.

“We have become aware of an unauthorized access to an internal ticketing system which we use at Telefónica. We continue to investigate the extent of the incident but can confirm that Telefónica´s residential customers have not been affected. From the very beginning, we have taken the necessary steps to block any unauthorized access to the system,” Telefonica stated. 

Telefonica, a multinational telecommunications firm headquartered in Madrid, Spain, operates in a dozen countries worldwide under various brands such as Movistar, O2, Telefonica, Telxius, and Vivo.
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Trend Micro SafeBreach Vulnerability Attack Security
Cybersecurity Exploit FTP server Infostealer malware PowerShell Trend Micro SafeBreach Vulnerability Attack Security

Malicious GitHub PoC Exploit Spreads Infostealer Malware

 

A malicious GitHub repository disguises a proof-of-concept (PoC) exploit for CVE-2024-49113, also known as "LDAPNightmare," delivering infostealer malware that sends sensitive data to an external FTP server. Disguised as a legitimate PoC, the exploit tricks users into executing malware.

While using fake PoC exploits is not a new tactic, Trend Micro's discovery shows that cybercriminals continue to deceive unsuspecting users. This malicious repository appears to be a fork of SafeBreach Labs' original PoC for CVE-2024-49113, which was released on January 1, 2025.

CVE-2024-49113 is one of two vulnerabilities affecting the Windows Lightweight Directory Access Protocol (LDAP), which was patched by Microsoft during December 2024's Patch Tuesday. The other vulnerability, CVE-2024-49112, is a critical remote code execution (RCE) flaw.

SafeBreach's blog post initially mislabeled the vulnerability as CVE-2024-49112, which sparked interest in LDAPNightmare, potentially attracting threat actors looking to exploit this buzz.

The PoC from the malicious repository contains a UPX-packed executable, 'poc.exe,' which drops a PowerShell script in the victim's %Temp% folder upon execution. The script sets up a scheduled job that runs an encoded script, which fetches another script from Pastebin.

This final payload gathers information such as computer details, process lists, network data, and installed updates, which it then compresses into a ZIP file and uploads to an external FTP server using hardcoded credentials.

Users downloading PoCs from GitHub should exercise caution, trusting only reputable cybersecurity firms and researchers. Verifying repository authenticity and reviewing code before execution is essential. For added security, consider uploading binaries to VirusTotal and avoid anything that appears obfuscated.
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User Security
Banshee Stealer Infostealer macOS malware User Security

New Version of Banshee Malware Targets macOS Users

 

According to the latest study published this week, a new variant of the info-stealing malware known as "Banshee" has been targeting macOS users' passwords, cryptocurrency wallets, browser credentials, and other data for at least the past four months.

Check Point researchers discovered that the latest version targets anyone using a Mac and can be downloaded mostly through malicious GitHub uploads, but also through other websites (GitHub's policies prohibit malware, but this does not mean there is no malware on GitHub). 

This latest Banshee malware often disguises itself as the Telegram messaging app or the Google Chrome browser, two popular apps that other malware attackers use to trick users. This version first surfaced in September last year and attempts to evade detection by using Apple's proprietary string encryption algorithm, XProtect.

This malware targets your browsing activities in Chrome, Brave, Edge, or Vivaldi. It also attempts to steal your cryptocurrency if you have any crypto wallet browser extensions installed, and it may show macOS victims fake login pages in an attempt to steal their usernames and passwords, which it then uses to steal accounts and funds. It will target your Coinbase, Ronin, Slope, TONNE, MetaMask, and other cryptocurrency wallet extensions if you have them. 

The source code for Banshee was leaked online in November. This could have helped antivirus companies ensure their software catches the sneakier version in the months since. Prior versions of this malware were marketed as "stealer-as-a-service" malware on cybercriminal channels, including attacker-controlled Telegram channels, for $3,000 per "license.” 

To stay protected from info-stealer malware, it's a good idea to consider getting a crypto hardware wallet like one from Ledger or Trezor if you have over $1,000 in crypto. In general, it's also a good practice to avoid storing more than $1,000 in any browser extension-based crypto wallet (you can also store funds with an exchange like Coinbase, Robinhood, or Kraken). 

Additionally, passwords should never be kept in an unsecured digital document on your computer (no Google Docs). Instead, think about keeping your crypto seed phrases on paper in a closed box or safe at home.
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OtterCookie
Infostealer Malicious Campaign malware North Korean Hackers OtterCookie

North Korean Hackers Deploy OtterCookie Malware in Contagious Interview Campaign

 

The North Korean hackers behind the ongoing Contagious Interview campaign have been observed launching a new JavaScript malware named OtterCookie. 

The campaign includes social engineering techniques, with the hacker team frequently posing as recruiters to trick job seekers into downloading malware during an interview process. This entails sharing malware-laced files via GitHub or the official package registry, paving the way for the propagation of malware like BeaverTail and InvisibleFerret. 

Palo Alto Networks Unit 42, which first detected the activity in November 2023, is tracking the cluster as CL-STA-0240. In September 2024, Singaporean cybersecurity company Group-IB disclosed the deployment of an upgraded version of BeaverTail that employs a modular approach, delegating its information-stealing capability to a collection of Python scripts known as CivetQ. 

According to the latest findings from Japanese cybersecurity company NTT Security Holdings, the JavaScript malware that launches BeaverTail is also designed to fetch and execute OtterCookie. 

The new malware is said to have been launched in September 2024, with a new variant identified in the wild last month. OtterCookie, upon running, establishes connections with a command-and-control (C2) server using the Socket.IO JavaScript library, and awaits further instructions. It is intended to execute shell commands that facilitate data theft, including files, clipboard items, and cryptocurrency wallet keys. 

The older OtterCookie variant discovered in September is functionally identical, but with a slight implementation difference: the cryptocurrency wallet key theft capability is directly incorporated into the malware, rather than a remote shell command. The discovery indicates that attackers are actively updating their tools while leaving the infection chain mostly intact, highlighting the campaign's efficacy. 

This comes as South Korea's Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MoFA) sanctioned 15 individuals and one organisation in connection with a fraudulent IT worker program engineered by North Korea to establish a regular source of funds. These funds are funnelled to North Korea, often through data theft and other illegal means. 

Kim Ryu Song, one of the 15 sanctioned individuals, was also charged by the U.S. Department of Justice (DoJ) earlier this month for allegedly participating in a long-running conspiracy to violate sanctions and commit wire fraud, money laundering, and identity theft by illegally seeking employment in U.S. companies and non-profit organisations.
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User Security
Data Theft Infostealer malware Python Package User Security

Fortinet Researchers Discover Two Malicious Python Packages

 

A new research published earlier this week by Fortinet Inc.'s FortiGuard Labs warns of two newly found malicious Python packages that indicate a major threat of credential theft, data exfiltration, and unauthorised system access.

The first flaw, Zebo-0.1.0, was discovered to exhibit sophisticated malware behaviour, including obfuscation tactics to hide its functionality and make it difficult for security tools to detect as malicious. The malware supports keylogging, screen capture, and the exfiltration of critical data to remote servers, posing a serious threat to user privacy and system integrity.

Zebo-0.1.0 makes use of libraries like pynput for keylogging and ImageGrab to take screenshots. This enables the malware to record every keystroke and regularly capture screenshots of the user's desktop, possibly exposing passwords, bank information, and other sensitive data. The malware stores the data locally before sending it to a Firebase database via obfuscated HTTP calls, allowing attackers to retrieve the stolen information undetected.

The malware also has a persistence technique to ensure that it is re-executed each time the infected system boots up. It accomplishes this by creating scripts and batch files in the Windows starting directory. They allow it to remain on the system without the user's knowledge, making it difficult to delete and enabling long-term data theft.

The second flaw, Cometlogger-0.1, includes a variety of malicious functionalities that target system credentials and user data. The virus dynamically injects webhooks into code during execution, allowing it to relay sensitive data, such as passwords and tokens, to remote attacker-controlled servers. 

Cometlogger-0.1 was also discovered to have features meant to evade discovery and disrupt analysis. One function, anti-virtual machine detection, looks for traces of sandbox environments, which are frequently employed by security researchers, and if it finds VM indicators, the malware stops running, allowing it to evade analysis and go unnoticed in live environments.

Though both types of malware have been flagged as dangerous, FortiGuard Lab experts state Cometlogger-0.1 takes things a step further by stealing a wide range of user data, including session cookies, saved passwords, and browsing history. It can also target data from services like Discord, X, and Steam, potentially leading to account hijacking and impersonation.

“The script (Cometlogger-0.1) exhibits several hallmarks of malicious intent, including dynamic file manipulation, webhook injection, steal information, ANTI-VM,” the researchers explained. “While some features could be part of a legitimate tool, the lack of transparency and suspicious functionality make it unsafe to execute.” 

The researchers believe that the most effective strategy to avoid infection is to always examine third-party scripts and executables before launching them. Organisations should also set up firewalls and intrusion detection systems to detect strange network activity, and personnel should be trained to recognise phishing attempts and avoid running unverified scripts.
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spear-phishing
Check Point research copyright scam cryptocurrency theft Cybersecurity Detection Infostealer malware phishing protection Rhadamanthys malware spear-phishing

Global Companies Targeted by "CopyR(ight)hadamantys" Phishing Scam Using Advanced Infostealer Malware

 

Hundreds of organizations worldwide have recently fallen victim to a sophisticated spear-phishing campaign, where emails falsely claiming copyright infringement are used to deliver an advanced infostealer malware.

Since July, Check Point Research has tracked the distribution of these emails across regions like the Americas, Europe, and Southeast Asia. Each email originates from a unique domain, and hundreds of Check Point’s clients have been targeted, suggesting the campaign's scope may be even broader.

The emails are designed to provoke recipients into downloading Rhadamanthys, a powerful infostealer capable of extracting sensitive data, such as cryptocurrency wallet information. Check Point researchers refer to the campaign as "CopyR(ight)hadamantys" and note the use of automated tools to send emails from different addresses. This automation can lead to awkward results, such as emails written in incorrect languages, limiting the emails’ ability to impersonate recognizable brands effectively. Roughly 70% of impersonated companies belong to the tech or media and entertainment sectors, including Check Point itself.

The phishing emails claim that the recipient has violated copyright laws by posting unauthorized content online. According to Sergey Shykevich, threat intelligence manager at Check Point, these accusations often cause recipients to question if they mistakenly used copyrighted material, increasing the chance they'll download the malware.

Recipients are directed to download a password-protected file, which contains a link leading to Dropbox or Discord. This file holds a decoy document, a legitimate program, and a malicious DLL (dynamic link library) that installs Rhadamanthys. Rhadamanthys stands out as one of the most sophisticated information-stealing tools sold on the dark web, priced around $1,000—significantly higher than other infostealers, which typically range from $100 to $200. Rhadamanthys is known for its modularity, obfuscation, and stealth, making detection much more challenging.

One notable feature of Rhadamanthys is its machine-learning-based OCR (optical character recognition) component. While limited in capability—it struggles with complex fonts and handwriting—this feature allows it to extract information from images and PDF files. The OCR module in the current campaign contains a dictionary of words tied to Bitcoin wallet security, suggesting a focus on cryptocurrency theft.

The CopyR(ight)hadamantys campaign aligns with financially motivated tactics, but Rhadamanthys has also been linked to state-sponsored actors, including Iran’s Void Manticore and the pro-Palestinian Handala group. Organizations are advised to enhance phishing defenses, though this campaign has an additional, unusual feature.

Once deployed, the malicious DLL creates a much larger file in the user’s Documents folder, disguised as a Firefox component. This larger version, though identical in function, uses an "overlay" of excess data, which serves two purposes: altering the file’s hash value, and potentially avoiding antivirus detection by exploiting a tendency of some programs to skip scanning large files.

According to Shykevich, organizations should monitor unusually large files downloaded via email, though legitimate files may also be large. He believes implementing effective download rules could help combat this tactic.
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Ransomware
Cyber Crime Infostealer Interpol Malware Distribution Operation Synergia phishing Ransomware

Operation Synergia II: A Global Effort to Dismantle Cybercrime Networks

Operation Synergia II: A Global Effort to Dismantle Cybercrime Networks

In an unprecedented move, Operation Synergia II has significantly strengthened global cybersecurity efforts. Led by INTERPOL, this extensive operation focused on dismantling malicious networks and thwarting cyber threats across 95 countries. Spanning from April to August 2024, the initiative marks a monumental step in international cybercrime prevention.

Global Collaboration

Operation Synergia II aimed to tackle a range of cybercrimes, including phishing, malware distribution, and ransomware attacks. Cybercriminals exploit vulnerabilities to steal sensitive information, disrupt services, and extort money. The operation's success lies in its collaborative approach, involving INTERPOL, private cybersecurity firms like Kasperksy, and national law enforcement agencies. This partnership was crucial in sharing intelligence, resources, and expertise, enabling swift and effective actions against cyber threats.

The Scope of the Operation

In Hong Kong, authorities dismantled over 1,000 servers linked to cybercrimes, while investigators in Mongolia confiscated equipment and identified 93 suspects. Macau and Madagascar also played vital roles by deactivating hundreds of servers and seizing electronic devices.

Neal Jetton, Director of Interpol's Cybercrime Directorate, remarked, “The global nature of cybercrime requires a global response… Together, we’ve dismantled malicious infrastructure and protected countless potential victims.”

Key Achievements

The operation led to the seizure of over 22,000 malicious IP addresses and servers. This massive takedown disrupted numerous criminal networks, preventing further attacks and mitigating potential damages. The seized assets included servers used for hosting phishing websites, distributing malware, and coordinating ransomware operations.

Impact Areas

Phishing Schemes: Phishing remains one of the most prevalent and dangerous forms of cybercrime. Cybercriminals use deceptive emails and websites to trick individuals into revealing personal information, such as passwords and credit card details. By targeting and taking down phishing servers, Operation Synergia II significantly reduced the risk of individuals falling victim to these scams.

Malware Distribution: Malware, or malicious software, can cause extensive damage to individuals and organizations. It can steal sensitive information, disrupt operations, and even take control of infected systems. The operation's success in dismantling malware distribution networks has helped curb the spread of harmful software and protect countless users.

Ransomware Attacks: Ransomware is a type of malware that encrypts a victim's files, demanding payment for their release. It has become a major threat to businesses, governments, and individuals worldwide. By targeting the infrastructure used to deploy ransomware, Operation Synergia II has disrupted these extortion schemes and safeguarded potential victims.

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Threat Intelligence
Cyber Security Dutch Police FBI Infostealer Threat Intelligence

Redline And Meta Infostealers Targeted in Operation Magnus

 

The Dutch National Police claimed on Monday that they had secured "full access" to all servers employed by the Redline and Meta infostealers, two of the most common cybercrime tools on the internet.

Infostealer malware is a major cybersecurity issue that is frequently sold as a malware-as-a-service tool. It infects users' devices and harvests information such as credit card numbers and autofill password data. 

Cybercriminals who use the infostealer then bundle the information into logs, which are sold on credential marketplaces to fraudsters and other criminals looking to breach any organisations whose login information has been compromised.

Earlier this week on Monday, the Dutch National Police, in collaboration with the FBI and other partner agencies in the United States, Australia, and the United Kingdom, announced the disruption of these two infostealers on a website for "Operation Magnus," which includes a timer promising "more news" counting down to noon on Tuesday, Dutch local time. 

A video on the site that mimics the criminals' own marketing claims that the police have supplied a "final update" for both the Redline and Meta infostealer strains, adding that the multinational operation "gained full access to all Redline and Meta servers." The video shows the depth of this access, including many administrator panels, the malware source code, and what appears to be a large number of usernames for people who use the malware-as-a-service tool. 

“Involved parties will be notified, and legal actions are underway,” reads the site, while the video adds, alongside a graphic of cuffed hands: “Thank you for installing this update. We’re looking forward to seeing you soon.” 

Cybercriminals find ways

In conjunction with the disruption operations, the US Justice Department unsealed charges against Maxim Rudometov, one of RedLine's developers and administrators.

According to the Attorney's Office for the Western District of Texas, Rudometov may face a maximum sentence of 35 years if convicted of access device fraud, conspiracy to commit computer intrusion, and money laundering. This follows a series of operations by law enforcement agencies aimed at disrupting the activities of high-profile cybercrime groups around the world.

In December 2023, US officials seized the leak site of ALPHV/BlackCat, one of the most prolific ransomware collectives in recent years, in what was regarded as a severe blow to the outfit.
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User Security
Cyber Attacks Infostealer Malvertising Campaign User Privacy User Security

Malvertising Campaign Hijacks Facebook Accounts to Propagate SYS01stealer

 

A new malvertising effort is using Meta's advertising network to disseminate the SYS01 infostealer, a cybersecurity issue known to Meta and specifically Facebook users for collecting personal information. 

What distinguishes this attack is that it targets millions of people worldwide, primarily men aged 45 and up. It successfully disguises itself as advertisements for popular software, games, and online services. This campaign, discovered in September 2024, stands out for its imitation tactics and the popular brands it exploits. 

Instead of zeroing in on a single lure, the perpetrators impersonate a wide range of well-known brands, including productivity tools like Office 365, creative software like Canva and Adobe Photoshop, VPN services like ExpressVPN, streaming platforms like Netflix, messaging apps like Telegram, and even popular video games like Super Mario Bros Wonder. 

Modus operandi 

According to Bitdefender's blog article, malicious adverts frequently lead to MediaFire links that offer direct downloads of seemingly legitimate software. These zip-archived downloads contain a malicious Electron program. 

When executed, this application drops and runs the SYS01 infostealer, frequently while presenting a fake app that replicates the advertised software. This deceitful strategy makes it harder for victims to recognise that they have been compromised. 

An Electron application is a desktop software that uses web technologies such as HTML, CSS, and JavaScript. Electron is an open-source framework built by GitHub that enables developers to build cross-platform programs that run on Windows, macOS, and Linux using a single codebase. 

However, in this attack, the Electron app employs obfuscated Javascript code and a standalone 7zip application to extract a password-protected archive containing the core malware components. This bundle contains PHP scripts used to install the infostealer and establish persistence on the victim's PC. The malware also includes anti-sandbox tests to circumvent detection by security experts. 

The primary goal of the SYS01 infostealer is to acquire Facebook credentials, particularly those associated with business accounts. These compromised accounts are then used in subsequent assaults or frauds. 

What's worse, the assault takes advantage of the hijacked accounts' advertising capabilities, allowing attackers to produce new malicious ads that appear more authentic and easily evade security filters. This sets up a self-sustaining loop in which stolen accounts are used to propagate the malware even further. The stolen credentials are likely to be sold on underground marketplaces, enriching the crooks even more.
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User Security
Chrome Extension Cyber Security Data Privacy Infostealer Malicious Campaign User Security

New Tool Circumvents Google Chrome's New Cookie Encryption System

 

A researcher has developed a tool that bypasses Google's new App-Bound encryption cookie-theft defences and extracts saved passwords from the Chrome browser. 

Alexander Hagenah, a cybersecurity researcher, published the tool, 'Chrome-App-Bound-Encryption-Decryption,' after noticing that others had previously identified equivalent bypasses. 

Although the tool delivers what several infostealer operations have already done with their malware, its public availability increases the risk for Chrome users who continue to store sensitive information in their browsers. 

Google launched Application-Bound (App-Bound) encryption in July (Chrome 127) as a new security feature that encrypts cookies using a Windows process with SYSTEM rights. 

The goal was to safeguard sensitive data against infostealer malware, which operates with the logged user's access, making it impossible to decrypt stolen cookies without first achieving SYSTEM privileges and potentially setting off security software alarms. 

"Because the App-Bound service is running with system privileges, attackers need to do more than just coax a user into running a malicious app," noted Google in July. "Now, the malware has to gain system privileges, or inject code into Chrome, something that legitimate software shouldn't be doing.” 

However, by September, several infostealer thieves had discovered ways to circumvent the new security feature, allowing their cybercriminal customers to once again siphon and decrypt sensitive data from Google Chrome. 

Google previously stated that the "cat and mouse" game between info-stealer developers and its engineers was to be expected, and that they never assumed that its defence measures would be impenetrable. Instead, they believed that by introducing App-Bound encryption, they could finally set the groundwork for progressively constructing a more robust system. Below is Google's response from the time:

"We are aware of the disruption that this new defense has caused to the infostealer landscape and, as we stated in the blog, we expect this protection to cause a shift in attacker behavior to more observable techniques such as injection or memory scraping. This matches the new behavior we have seen. 

We continue to work with OS and AV vendors to try and more reliably detect these new types of attacks, as well as continuing to iterate on hardening defenses to improve protection against infostealers for our users.”
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Windows Defender
Data Leak Infostealer malware User Privacy User Security Windows Defender

New Yunit Infostealer Bypasses Windows Defender and Steals Sensitive Data

 

A new information-stealing malware has been discovered that is capable of exfiltrating a large amount of sensitive information while also disabling antivirus products to create persistence on target endpoints.

CYFIRMA cybersecurity researchers have published a detailed investigation of the infostealer known as Yunit Stealer. Yunit Stealer employs JavaScript to include system utility and cryptography modules, enabling it to do activities such as system information retrieval, command execution, and HTTP queries. It persists on the target device by altering the registry, adding jobs via batch and VBScript, and, finally, by setting exclusions in Windows Defender.

When it comes to infostealing, Yunit is just as effective as any other malware. It can steal system information, browser data (passwords, cookies, autofill information, etc.), and bitcoin wallet information. In addition to passwords, it can keep credit card information that is kept in the browser. 

Once the malware has gathered all of the data it deems useful, it will attempt to exfiltrate it via Discord webhooks or into a Telegram channel. It will also upload it to a remote site and provide a download link for future use. The URL will also include screenshots, allowing the threat actor to access the information while remaining anonymous and evading discovery. Accessing data using encrypted communication channels is also beneficial.

The fact that the Telegram channel was only established on August 31, 2024, and that it only has 12 subscribers, according to CYFIRMA, serves as further evidence that Yunit is a fledgling infostealer that has not yet proven its mettle. As an alternative, the Discord account isn't operational right now. 

Prevention tips 

Keep your systems updated: Regularly updating your operating system and software can help defend against known vulnerabilities that Yunit Stealer could exploit. 

Use trustworthy antivirus software: While Yunit Stealer can disable some antivirus products, choosing a reputable and often updated security solution provides an extra degree of protection. 

Avoid dubious links and downloads. Phishing attacks are frequently the starting point for malware infections. Use caution while opening email attachments or clicking on unexpected URLs. 

Monitor your accounts: Check your online accounts on a regular basis for strange behaviour, particularly those that store sensitive data such as passwords and credit card information.
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Spear Phishing
Business Security Consumer Data Cyber Attacks Infostealer Infostealer Malware Malvertising Malware Campaign Spear Phishing

Marko Polo Infostealer Campaigns Target Thousands Across Platforms

 

The cybercriminal group “Marko Polo” is behind a major malware operation, running 30 infostealer campaigns targeting a wide array of victims. Using techniques such as spear-phishing, malvertising, and brand impersonation, the group spreads over 50 malware payloads, including AMOS, Stealc, and Rhadamanthys, across different sectors like gaming, cryptocurrency, and software. 

According to Recorded Future’s Insikt Group, Marko Polo’s campaigns have compromised thousands of devices globally, posing a significant threat to consumer privacy and business security, with potential financial losses in the millions. The group primarily uses spear-phishing tactics via direct messages on social media, targeting high-value individuals like cryptocurrency influencers, gamers, and software developers. 

They impersonate popular brands such as Fortnite, Zoom, and RuneScape, creating fake job offers and project collaborations to deceive victims into downloading malware. In addition to these impersonations, Marko Polo even fabricates its own brand names like VDeck, Wasper, and SpectraRoom to lure unsuspecting users. The Marko Polo operation is highly versatile, capable of infecting both Windows and macOS platforms. On Windows, they use a tool called “HijackLoader” to deliver malware like Stealc, designed to extract data from browsers, and Rhadamanthys, which targets a wide array of applications and data types. 

Rhadamanthys has also added advanced features, such as a cryptocurrency clipper to redirect payments to the attackers’ wallets, and the ability to evade Windows Defender. When it comes to macOS, the group deploys Atomic (AMOS), an infostealer launched in 2023, which they rent out to cybercriminals for $1,000 per month. AMOS is highly effective at extracting sensitive data stored on macOS systems, such as Apple Keychain passwords, MetaMask seeds, WiFi credentials, credit card details, and other encrypted information. 

The Marko Polo campaign’s widespread nature highlights the dangers of information-stealing malware, and users need to be vigilant against unsolicited links and downloads from unknown sources. One of the most effective ways to protect against such malware is to download software exclusively from official websites and ensure your antivirus software is up-to-date. This ensures the detection of malicious payloads before they can compromise your system. 

Information-stealing malware campaigns are becoming increasingly common, with Marko Polo’s operation serving as a stark reminder of the sophisticated tactics cybercriminals employ today. These stolen credentials often enable hackers to breach corporate networks, engage in data theft, and disrupt business operations. Therefore, cybersecurity awareness and strong preventive measures are crucial for protecting against such malicious activities.
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