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Showing posts with label Vulnerabilities and Exploits. Show all posts
Windows
Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cyberhackers Cybersecurity CyberThreat Hacking WhatsApp MIME Spoofing Vulnerabilities and Exploits Windows

WhatsApp for Windows Exposed to Security Risk Through Spoofing Vulnerability

 


Whatsapp for Windows has been recently revealed to have a critical security vulnerability known as CVE-2025-30401. This vulnerability has raised serious concerns within the cybersecurity community since it has been identified. The high severity of this vulnerability affects desktop versions of the application released before 2.2450.6, which could lead to an exploitation attack. An issue resulting from inconsistencies in the handling of file metadata enables threat actors to manipulate these inconsistencies in order to circumvent security checks. 

By exploiting this vulnerability, malicious actors can execute arbitrary code on targeted systems without user awareness, resulting in the possibility of unauthorized access to sensitive information or data compromise. Several security experts have emphasized that in order to mitigate the risks associated with this vulnerability, you must update your WhatsApp version to the latest version. Organizations and users of WhatsApp for Windows are strongly advised to apply the necessary patches immediately so that they are protected from threats. 

In accordance with the official security advisory, there is a critical inconsistency in how WhatsApp's desktop application deals with file attachments. There is a fundamental difference between the way the application determines how to display attachments using its MIME type versus the way the operating system interprets the file extension to determine how it should be opened or executed as a result. This difference in interpretation has created a serious security vulnerability. An attacker can create a malicious file that appears benign but is actually dangerous.

For instance, the attacker might use an MIME type that is typically used for images, along with an executable file extension such as exe, to craft a malicious file. Although the application would visually present it as safe, as per its MIME type, the operating system would handle it based on what its actual extension is. As a result of such a mismatch, users may be misled into opening a file that appears harmless but in reality is executable and thus allowing the execution of arbitrary code unintentionally by the user. As a result of such an attack vector, the likelihood of successful social engineering attacks and system compromises increases significantly. 

There has been a significant amount of research conducted on the issue, and the findings indicate that if a deliberate discrepancy was made between the MIME type and the extension of the file, it could have led the recipient unintentionally to execute arbitrary code by manually accessing the attachment within WhatsApp's desktop application, instead of just viewing its contents. This behavior represented a considerable threat, particularly in scenarios involving the user initiating the interaction. 

Fortunately, an independent security researcher who discovered this vulnerability and disclosed it to Meta through the company's Bug Bounty Program has been credited with responsibly disclosing it to the company, but the company does not appear to have confirmed whether the vulnerability has been actively exploited in the real world. It is important to note that such a security issue has not occurred on the platform in the past. 

In July 2024, WhatsApp was able to resolve a related security issue, which allowed Python and PHP attachments to be run automatically by Windows systems with the corresponding interpreters installed—without prompting the user. In the same vein, an incident similar to that of the platform highlighted the risks associated with the handling and execution of files incorrectly. In the end, these cases emphasize the importance of rigorous input validation and consistent file interpretation across all applications and operating systems, regardless of the type of application.

Due to its vast user base and widespread adoption, WhatsApp remains a highly valuable target for cyber threat actors, whether they are motivated by financial gain or geopolitical interests. The platform has become a recurring target of malicious campaigns because of its deep integration into users' personal and professional lives, coupled with the trust it commands. There have been several incidents in which attackers have exploited security vulnerabilities within WhatsApp to gain access to users' data, exfiltrate sensitive data, and install sophisticated malware as a result. 

A zero-day vulnerability that affects WhatsApp is particularly lucrative in underground markets, sometimes commanding a price of over one million dollars. Not only does the WhatsApp user base have a large footprint, but attackers can also gain an advantage by unknowingly accessing private conversations, media files, and even device-level abilities to gain a strategic advantage. Graphite, a form of spyware developed by Paragon, had been exploited by active hackers in March 2025 as a zero-click, zero-day vulnerability which WhatsApp remedied in March 2025. 

Using this exploit, the targeted individuals could be monitored remotely, without the victim having to interact with the attacker - an example of an advanced persistent threat campaign. An investigation by a research group based at the University of Toronto uncovered this surveillance campaign, which targeted journalists and members of civil society. The Citizen Lab was conducting the investigation, which was the source of the information. 

Following their report, WhatsApp swiftly acted to neutralize the campaign. Meta confirmed that the vulnerability had been silently patched in December 2024 without a client-side update being required. Despite being resolved without a formal CVE identifier being assigned, the issue is still of great importance to the global community. In order to protect platforms of such importance from exploitation, proactive vulnerability management, continuous security auditing, and cross-sector cooperation must be adopted. 

In the wake of the successful implementation of server-side mitigations, WhatsApp sent out security notifications on January 31 to roughly 90 Android users across over two dozen countries that had been affected by the vulnerability. Journalists and human rights activists in Italy were among the individuals alerted. They were identified as the targets of an elaborate surveillance operation using Paragon Graphite spyware, which utilized the zero-click exploit of a computer system. 

An Israeli cybersecurity firm known as NSO Group has been accused of violating American anti-hacking statutes by distributing its Pegasus spyware utilizing WhatsApp zero-day vulnerabilities in December of 2016, following a pattern of highly targeted cyber intrusions utilizing advanced surveillance tools. This incident follows a broader pattern of highly targeted cyber intrusions. Several evidences were provided to the court which indicated that at least 1,400 mobile devices had been compromised as a result of these covert attacks.

According to court documents, NSO Group carried out zero-click surveillance operations by deploying multiple zero-day exploits to compromise WhatsApp's systems. As part of the spyware delivery process, malicious messages were sent that did not require the recipient to interact with them at all, exploiting vulnerabilities within the messaging platform. Aside from that, the documents also allege that NSO developers reverse engineered WhatsApp's source code to create custom tools that could deliver these payloads, conduct that was deemed to have been illegal under state and federal cybersecurity laws. 

Those cases emphasize the increasing sophistication of commercial surveillance vendors as well as the necessity for robust legal and technical defenses to protect digital communication platforms, as well as the individuals who rely upon them, from abuse. As a result of these incidents, user must remain vigilant, maintain timely security updates, and strengthen the security measures within widely used communication platforms to reduce the risk of cyber-attacks. 

There has been an increasing prevalence of threat actors using sophisticated techniques to exploit even small inconsistencies, which is why it is essential to maintain a proactive and collaborative approach to cybersecurity. To maintain a secure digital environment, platform providers and end users both need to be aware of and responsible for their role as well.
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Zero-Day Vulnerabilities
(RCE) Cybersecurity Threats Remote Code Execution Telegram security Vulnerabilities and Exploits Zero-Day Vulnerabilities

Operation Zero Offers Up to $4M for Telegram Exploits

 

Operation Zero, a firm specializing in acquiring and selling zero-day vulnerabilities exclusively to Russian government entities and local companies, has announced a significant bounty for exploits targeting Telegram. The company is willing to pay up to $4 million for a full-chain exploit that could compromise the popular messaging app.

The exploit broker has set tiered rewards for different vulnerabilities:
  • Up to $500,000 for a one-click remote code execution (RCE) exploit.
  • Up to $1.5 million for a zero-click RCE exploit.
  • Up to $4 million for a full-chain exploit, potentially allowing hackers to gain full access to a target’s device.
Operation Zero’s focus on Telegram is strategic, given its widespread use in Russia and Ukraine. The company's offer provides insight into the Russian zero-day market, which remains largely secretive.

Exploit brokers often publicize bounties for vulnerabilities when they detect high demand. This suggests that the Russian government may have specifically requested Telegram exploits, prompting Operation Zero to advertise these high-value offers.

Zero-day vulnerabilities are particularly valuable because they remain unknown to software makers, making them highly effective for cyber operations. Among them, zero-click RCE exploits are the most sought after, as they require no user interaction—unlike phishing-based attacks—making them stealthier and more powerful.

A source familiar with the exploit market suggested that Operation Zero’s prices might be on the lower side, as the company could intend to resell these vulnerabilities multiple times at a higher margin.

“I don’t think they’ll actually pay full [price]. There will be some bar the exploit doesn’t clear, and they’ll only do a partial payment,” said the source.

Another industry expert noted that pricing depends on factors like exclusivity and whether Operation Zero intends to redevelop the exploits internally or act solely as a broker.

The Ukrainian government recently banned the use of Telegram for government and military personnel due to concerns over potential exploitation by Russian state-backed hackers. Security researchers have long warned that Telegram is less secure than alternatives like Signal and WhatsApp, primarily because it does not use end-to-end encryption by default.

“The vast majority of one-on-one Telegram conversations — and literally every single group chat — are probably visible on Telegram’s servers,” said cryptography expert Matthew Green.

Despite this, Telegram spokesperson Remi Vaughn stated: “Telegram has never been vulnerable to a zero-click exploit,” while also emphasizing the company’s bug bounty program.

The zero-day market has become increasingly competitive, driving up prices. In 2023, a WhatsApp zero-day was reportedly valued at $8 million. Operation Zero has previously offered $20 million for exploits capable of fully compromising iOS and Android devices but currently caps those payouts at $2.5 million.

With cyber threats escalating, the demand for zero-days—especially for widely used platforms like Telegram—remains at an all-time high.
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Zero-day Flaw
Malicious Files nation-state hackers Threat Landscape Vulnerabilities and Exploits Zero-day Flaw

Windows Shortcut Vulnerability Exploited by 11 State-Sponsored Outfits

 

Since 2017, at least 11 state-sponsored threat groups have actively exploited a Microsoft zero-day issue that allows for abuse of Windows shortcut files to steal data and commit cyber espionage against organisations across multiple industries. 

Threat analysts from Trend Micro's Trend Zero Day Initiative (ZDI) discovered roughly 1,000 malicious.lnk files that exploited the flaw, known as ZDI-CAN-25373, which allowed cyber criminals to execute concealed malicious commands on a victim's PC via customised shortcut files.

“By exploiting this vulnerability, an attacker can prepare a malicious .lnk file for delivery to a victim,” researchers at Trend Micro noted. “Upon examining the file using the Windows-provided user interface, the victim will not be able to tell that the file contains any malicious content.”

The malicious files delivered by cybercriminals include a variety of payloads, including the Lumma infostealer and the Remcos remote access Trojan (RAT), which expose organisations to data theft and cyber espionage. 

State-sponsored outfits from North Korea, Iran, Russia, and China, as well as non-state actors, are among those behind the flaw attacks, which have affected organisations in the government, financial, telecommunications, military, and energy sectors across North America, Europe, Asia, South America, and Australia. 

Additionally, 45% of attacks were carried out by North Korean players, with Iran, Russia, and China each accounting for approximately 18%. Some of the groups listed as attackers are Evil Corp, Kimsuky, Bitter, and Mustang Panda, among others.

According to Trend Micro, Microsoft has not fixed the flaw despite receiving a proof-of-concept exploit through Trend ZDI's bug bounty program. Trend Micro did not react to a follow-up request for comment on their flaw detection and submission timeline.

Microsoft's position remains that it will not be fixing the vulnerability described by Trend Micro at this time because it "does not meet the bar for immediate servicing under our severity classification guidelines," though the company "will consider addressing it in a future feature release," according to an email from a Microsoft spokesperson.

Meanwhile, Microsoft Defender can detect and block threat behaviour, as detailed by Trend Micro, and Microsoft's Windows Smart App Control prevents malicious files from being downloaded from the internet. Furthermore, Windows recognises shortcut (.lnk) files as potentially malicious file types, and the system will automatically display a warning if a user attempts to download one.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
command injection flaw critical infrastructure cybersecurity industrial cybersecurity mySCADA vulnerabilities OT security risks SCADA security Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Critical Security Flaws Discovered in mySCADA myPRO SCADA System

Cybersecurity researchers have identified two high-severity vulnerabilities in mySCADA myPRO, a Supervisory Control and Data Acquisition (SCADA) system widely used in operational technology (OT) environments. These flaws could allow threat actors to gain unauthorized control over affected systems.

"These vulnerabilities, if exploited, could grant unauthorized access to industrial control networks, potentially leading to severe operational disruptions and financial losses," said Swiss security firm PRODAFT.

Both security flaws are rated 9.3 on the CVSS v4 scale and stem from operating system command injection issues:
  • CVE-2025-20014 – Allows attackers to execute arbitrary commands via crafted POST requests with a version parameter.
  • CVE-2025-20061 – Enables remote command execution using a POST request with an email parameter.
If exploited, these vulnerabilities could enable command injection and arbitrary code execution on affected systems.

Security Updates & Mitigation Measures

The issues have been addressed in the following patched versions:
  • mySCADA PRO Manager 1.3
  • mySCADA PRO Runtime 9.2.1
PRODAFT attributes the flaws to improper input validation, which creates an entry point for command injection attacks.

"These vulnerabilities highlight the persistent security risks in SCADA systems and the need for stronger defenses," the company stated. "Exploitation could lead to operational disruptions, financial losses, and safety hazards."

Organizations using mySCADA myPRO should take immediate action by:
  1. Applying the latest patches to eliminate vulnerabilities.
  2. Isolating SCADA systems from IT networks through network segmentation.
  3. Enforcing strong authentication measures to prevent unauthorized access.
  4. Monitoring system activity for signs of suspicious behavior.
By implementing these cybersecurity best practices, organizations can fortify their SCADA environments against potential attacks.
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Windows
BYOVD Attack CyberCrime Cybersecurity CyberThreat Vulnerabilities and Exploits Vulnerability Windows

Cybercriminals Target Paragon Partition Manager Vulnerability in BYOVD Attacks

 


It has been reported that threat actors have been actively exploiting a security vulnerability within the BioNTdrv.sys driver of Paragon Partition Manager in ransomware attacks by elevating privileges and executing arbitrary code under the guise of attacks. The CERT Coordination Center (CERT/CC) has identified this zero-day vulnerability as CVE-2025-0289, one of five security flaws discovered by Microsoft during the past year. 

Other flaws have been identified, including arbitrary memory mapping, arbitrary memory write, null pointer dereferences, insecure kernel resource access, and arbitrary memory move vulnerabilities. It is especially concerning that an adversary may be able to exploit this vulnerability. It involves a Microsoft-signed driver, which allows adversaries to take advantage of the Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD) technique. 

Using this method, attackers can compromise systems regardless of whether Paragon Partition Manager is installed, broadening the attack surface significantly. As BioNTdrv.sys operates at the kernel level, threat actors can exploit these vulnerabilities to execute commands with elevated privileges. This allows them to bypass security measures and defensive software, as attackers can access the system and deploy additional malicious payloads. 

Even though Microsoft researchers have identified all five security flaws, the company can not divulge what ransomware groups have been leveraging CVE-2025-0289 to execute their attacks. They are only aware that it has been weaponized in ransomware operations. A bulletin issued by Microsoft's CERT Coordination Center (CERT/CC) indicated that threat actors have been exploiting this vulnerability to conduct BYOVD-based ransomware attacks. 

According to the CVE-2025-0289 vulnerability, further malicious code within compromised environments can be executed by exploiting this vulnerability to escalate privileges to the SYSTEM level. This vulnerability can be exploited to facilitate the exploitation of BYOVD attacks, even on systems where the affected driver is not installed, and this can result in threat actors gaining elevated privileges and executing malicious code without the protection of security systems in place. 

As part of the identified security flaws affecting BioNTdrv.sys versions 1.3.0 and 1.5.1, CVE-2025-0285 is a flaw in version 7.9.1 which permits the mapping of kernel memory to arbitrary user inputs by not properly validating the length of the input. By exploiting this vulnerability, the user can escalate their privileges even further. 

There is a CVE-2025-0286 vulnerability that exists in version 7.9.1, resulting from improper validation of input controlled by users, which allows attackers to exploit this flaw to execute malicious code on the target machine. An unprivileged code execution vulnerability has been found in version 7.9.1, caused by an insufficient MasterLrp structure in the input buffer, which can result in a null pointer dereference vulnerability. 

Successful exploit allows arbitrary kernel-level code to be executed, facilitating privilege escalation and further misuse. Version 7.9.1 contains a vulnerability in the memmove function. This function fails to properly sanitize user-supplied data, allowing attackers to manipulate kernel memory and escalate privileges. 

Inversion of the CVE-2025-0289 vulnerability, an insecure kernel resource access vulnerability, has been found in version 17 of the Linux kernel due to a failure to validate the MappedSystemVa pointer before passing it to HalReturnToFirmware during the detection process. By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can compromise the system. 

This security vulnerability has been addressed by Paragon Software by releasing the updated driver BioNTdrv.sys version 2.0.0 across all products within Paragon Software's Hard Disk Manager suite, including Partition Manager versions 17.45.0 and later versions. This update has been developed to reduce the risks associated with the previously identified security vulnerabilities. 

There is also a dedicated security patch available for 64-bit versions of Windows 10, Windows 11, and Windows Server 2016, 2019, 2022, and 2025 that will provide users with an additional layer of protection against any exploits that might occur in the future, thereby enhancing the level of security. As part of Microsoft's efforts to protect its ecosystem, it has updated its Vulnerable Driver Blocklist, which effectively disables the execution of BioNTdrv.sys versions that are compromised within Windows environments, thereby preventing exploitation. 

Users and enterprises are strongly encouraged to ensure that this protection mechanism is kept in place to prevent exploitation. In light of the ongoing threat posed by these vulnerabilities, especially as a result of ransomware attacks, all users of Paragon Partition Manager and its associated products must update their software as soon as possible to the newest version available. 

As a further precaution, all Windows users should make sure that they enable the Microsoft Vulnerable Driver Blocklist feature as soon as possible. This is because it serves as a critical defense against BYOVD (Bring Your Vulnerable Driver) attacks, where outdated or insecure drivers are leveraged to elicit privileges and compromise a computer system.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cyberhackers CyberThreat Cyersecurity Qualcomm Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Qualcomm Identifies and Patches Critical Security Issues in Latest Update

 


Several vulnerabilities were identified in Qualcomm's latest security update for March 2025 that impacted many products, including automotive systems, mobile chipsets, and networking devices. There are several critical security issues in this security bulletin, including memory corruption risks and input validation flaws that could pose a significant security risk if exploited to compromise the system. 

The Qualcomm Security Updates are intended to improve the security of Qualcomm's technology ecosystem as well as strengthen its protection against possible cyber threats. There had been multiple security vulnerabilities identified and resolved by Qualcomm and MediaTek over the last few weeks, some of which had already been addressed by their respective Android updates, which were deployed in the previous weeks. 

Qualcomm released the March 2025 Security Bulletin, which outlined 14 vulnerabilities, all of which were addressed via upstream updates to its proprietary software, highlighting the serious potential risks associated with these security vulnerabilities. These security flaws are most of the time classified as critical or high severity, highlighting the seriousness of the threat they pose to users. Several of the vulnerabilities identified by Qualcomm include memory corruption, affecting Qualcomm's automotive software platform based on the QNX operating system.

Qualcomm has also released patches to resolve five high-severity vulnerabilities, which could result in information disclosures, denial-of-service (DoS) attacks, and memory corruption as a result. Furthermore, two moderate-severity flaws have been addressed as part of the latest security updates launched by the semiconductor manufacturer. 

The semiconductor manufacturer has also resolved seven high-severity defects and six medium-severe defects within open-source components launched by the manufacturer. As a result of these security patches, Qualcomm emphasized that OEMs (original equipment manufacturers) are being actively notified of the updates and urged them to implement the fixes on deployed devices as soon as possible. 

It is noteworthy that Google's March 2025 Android security update addressed three of the identified vulnerabilities: CVE-2024-43051, CVE-2025-53011, and CVE-2024-53025. It has been revealed that MediaTek has discovered ten security vulnerabilities that impact multiple chipsets. As part of the release of the company's fixes, three high-severity issues have been found, including a memory corruption flaw in modems, which can lead to DoS attacks, as well as an out-of-bounds write vulnerability in KeyInstall and WLAN, which can lead to escalation of privileges. 

This security bulletin from Qualcomm not only addresses vulnerabilities identified in proprietary software, but also vulnerabilities in open-source components that Qualcomm's products are integrated with. There are several security flaws affecting Android operating systems, camera drivers, and multimedia frameworks, among others. Qualcomm intends to mitigate the potential risks of these vulnerabilities by informing its customers and partners and strongly urging that patches be deployed as soon as possible to mitigate these risks. 

Users of Qualcomm-powered devices should check with their device manufacturers to learn about the availability of security updates and patches for those devices. During the last few months, Qualcomm has released a series of security updates demonstrating its commitment to increasing cybersecurity across all its product lines. By addressing critical vulnerabilities and working closely with original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) to facilitate timely patch deployments, the company aims to decrease security risks and enhance the integrity of its systems. 

As the threat of cyber-attacks continues to evolve, maintaining robust security measures through regular updates is imperative. According to Qualcomm, their users are encouraged to stay informed about security developments and to ensure they get the latest patches installed on their devices to prevent any possible exploitation of the vulnerabilities. In addition, organizations that are utilizing Snapdragon-powered systems are also encouraged to make sure that these updates are implemented promptly as a means of ensuring that their technology infrastructure is secure and reliable.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Chinese Hacker CISA FBI Ransomware Gang Vulnerabilities and Exploits

FBI And CISA Issues Warning of Ongoing ‘Ghost’ Ransomware Attack

 

Ghost, a ransomware outfit, has been exploiting software and firmware flaws since January, according to an FBI and Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) advisory issued last week.

The outfit, also known as Cring and based in China, focusses on internet-facing services with unpatched vulnerabilities that users might have fixed years ago, according to the agencies. Cybersecurity researchers initially raised concerns about the group in 2021. 

"This indiscriminate targeting of networks containing vulnerabilities has resulted in the compromise of organisations in more than 70 countries, including China," according to the notice issued by the Multi-State Information Sharing and Analysis Centre (MS-ISAC).

The notice lists the following vulnerabilities: Microsoft Exchange servers that are still vulnerable to the ProxyShell attack chain; servers running Adobe's ColdFusion for web applications; and issues in unpatched Fortinet security appliances. 
 
Critical infrastructure, schools and universities, healthcare, government networks, religious institutions, technology and manufacturing companies, and numerous small- and medium-sized businesses are among the listed victims since 2021, according to the notice. The goal is financial gain, with ransom demands occasionally amounting to hundreds of thousands of dollars.

“Persistence is not a major focus for Ghost actors, as they typically only spend a few days on victim networks,” the agencies further added. “In multiple instances, they have been observed proceeding from initial compromise to the deployment of ransomware within the same day.” 

The notice claims that the ransomware outfit employs common hacking tools like Cobalt Strike and Mimikatz, and that the malware they deploy frequently has file names like Cring.exe, Ghost.exe, ElysiumO.exe, and Locker.exe. 

“The impact of Ghost ransomware activity varies widely on a victim-to-victim basis,” the agencies concluded. “Ghost actors tend to move to other targets when confronted with hardened systems, such as those where proper network segmentation prevents lateral moment to other devices.” 

Prevention tips 

To combat against Ghost ransomware attacks, network defenders should take the following steps:

  • Create regular, off-site system backups that cannot be encrypted by ransomware. 
  • Patch the operating system, software, and firmware vulnerabilities as quickly as feasible.
  • Focus on the security holes targeted by Ghost ransomware (i.e., CVE-2018-13379, CVE-2010-2861, CVE-2009-3960, CVE-2021-34473, CVE-2021-34523, CVE-2021-31207). 
  • Segment networks to restrict lateral movement from compromised devices. 
  • Implement phishing-resistant multi-factor authentication (MFA) for all privileged accounts and email service accounts.
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XE Group
CVSS CyberCrime Cyberhackers CyberThreat Microsoft Software SQL Vulnerabilities and Exploits XE Group

XE Group Rebrands Its Cybercrime Strategy by Targeting Supply Chains

 


Over the past decade, there has been a rise in the number of cyber threats targeting the country, including the XE Group, a hacker collective with Vietnamese connections. According to recent investigations, the group was responsible for exploiting two zero-day vulnerabilities in VeraCore's warehouse management platform, CVE-2025-25181 and CVE-2025-57968 known to be zero-day vulnerabilities. 

A suite of reverse shells and web shells that exploit these vulnerabilities were deployed by the adversaries, allowing them to gain remote access to targeted systems in covert ways. This development is an indication of the group's sophisticated cyber-attack techniques. Identified as CVE-2024-57968, the vulnerability is a critical upload validation vulnerability with a CVSS score of 9.9, affecting versions before 2024.4.2.1, and can allow adversaries to upload files into non-intended directories, which could result in unauthorized access to the files. 

Adventure VeraCore up to version 2025.1.0 is vulnerable to SQL injection flaw CVE-2025-25181, which could be exploited remotely to execute arbitrary SQL commands through the remote execution of SQL commands. In addition to the XE Group's past association with credit card fraud, their focus has now switched to targeted data theft, particularly within manufacturing and distribution organizations. 

Several recent attacks have been perpetrated by threat actors who exploited VeraCore security issues to install Web Shells, which allowed them to execute various malicious activities and remain persistent within compromised environments while they executed their malicious activities. The group's continued sophistication and adaptability in the cyber threat landscape is reflected in this recent report, which details a compromise of a Microsoft Internet Information Services (IIS) server where VeraCore's warehouse management system software is hosted, and it indicates the company's growing sophistication. 

Upon further analysis of this incident, it was discovered that the initial breach occurred in January 2020 as a result of a zero-day vulnerability in SQL injection. It is speculated that As a result of this exploitation, The XE Group deployed customized web shells, which researchers have described as very versatile tools that are designed to maintain persistent access inside victim environments as well as run SQL queries regarding those environments.

As an example, in the case of the compromised IIS server, the attackers reactivated a web shell that was planted four years earlier, showing that they have retained a foothold in the infrastructure targeted by them for many years. Security vendors have been warning that the XE Group is actively targeting supply chains in the manufacturing and distribution sectors. Though the group has historically been associated with extensive credit card skimming operations, it has recently gained a reputation for exploiting zero-day vulnerabilities to do more damage. 

According to researchers, the group's continued ability to adapt and increase sophistication underscores the group's ability to remain agile and sophisticated over the years. The reactivation of an older web shell indicates the group's strategic focus on achieving long-term operational objectives by maintaining long-term access to compromised systems. 

To enhance the threat investigation process, the rules have been designed to be compatible with several SIEM (Security Information and Event Management) systems, Endpoint Detection and Response systems (EDR), and Data Lake solutions aligned with the MITRE ATT&CK framework. There is a variety of metadata that is accessible in each rule, including references to cyber threat intelligence, attack timelines, triage recommendations, and audit configurations, guaranteeing that security analysis has a structured approach. 

Additionally, SOC Prime's Uncoder AI (Artificial Intelligence) capabilities enable the quick development of custom IOC-based queries that will be seamlessly integrated with SIEM and EDR platforms, thus eliminating the need for security professionals to manually search for indicators of compromise (IOCs). Intezer's analysis of XE Group activity and SOC Prime's Uncoder AI were used to achieve this.

As an alternative to the corporate-only service offered previously by Uncoder AI, customers can now benefit from Uncoder AI's full suite of capabilities, which enhances accessibility for independent risk analysis performed by individual researchers. As a consequence of the XE Group's adoption of zero-day exploits as part of their attack strategy, it became increasingly clear that adversarial techniques are becoming more sophisticated and adaptable, making it necessary to enter into proactive defence measures as soon as possible.

SOC Prime Platform is a scalable tool designed to assist organizations in enhancing their security posture, countering evolving threats effectively, and mitigating risks associated with adding more attack surfaces in an increasingly complex cyber landscape by utilizing the tools provided by the platform. The XE Group has exploited two zero-day VeraCore vulnerabilities, CVE-2025-25181 and CVE-2025-50308, in recent attacks in an attempt to deploy one or more web shells on compromised systems. 

These two vulnerabilities are critical upload validation flaws (CVSS 9.9) and SQL injection flaws (CVSS 5.7), respectively. In a report published jointly by Solis and Intezer, the researchers reported that the group exploited one of these vulnerabilities as early as January 2020 and maintained persistent access to the victim's environment for several years afterwards. There was an attempt in 2024 by some threat actors to reactivate a previously deployed web shell, demonstrating their ability to avoid detection while maintaining long-term access to compromised systems as they remain undetected. 

XE Group's evolving tactics come as part of a broader trend that threats are exploring the software supply chain as a way to achieve their goals. Some notable precedents include the SolarWinds attack, breaches into Progress Software's MOVEit file transfer product, an Okta intrusion that affected all customers, and an Accellion breach that enabled ransomware to be deployed on an organization's network.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Data Privacy Locked Device Security Patch Tech Giant Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Apple Patches Zero-Day Flaw allowing Third-Party Access to Locked Devices

 

Tech giant Apple fixed a vulnerability that "may have been leveraged in a highly sophisticated campaign against specific targeted individuals" in its iOS and iPadOS mobile operating system updates earlier this week.

According to the company's release notes for iOS 18.3.1 and iPadOS 18.3.1, the vulnerability made it possible to disable USB Restricted Mode "on a locked device." A security feature known as USB Restricted Mode was first introduced in 2018 and prevents an iPhone or iPad from sending data via a USB connection if the device hasn't been unlocked for seven days. 

In order to make it more challenging for law enforcement or criminals employing forensic tools to access data on those devices, Apple announced a new security feature last year which triggers devices to reboot if they are not unlocked for 72 hours. 

Based on the language used in its security update, Apple suggests that the attacks were most likely carried out with physical control of a person's device, implying that whoever exploited this vulnerability had to connect to the person's Apple devices using a forensics device such as Cellebrite or Graykey, two systems that allow law enforcement to unlock and access data stored on iPhones and other devices. Bill Marczak, a senior researcher at Citizen Lab, a University of Toronto group that studies cyberattacks on civil society, uncovered the flaw.

However, it remains unclear who was responsible for exploiting this vulnerability and against whom it was used. However, there have been reported instances in the past in which law enforcement agencies employed forensic tools, which often exploit zero-day flaws in devices such as the iPhone, to unlock them and access the data inside.

Amnesty International published a report in December 2024 detailing a string of assaults by Serbian authorities in which they utilised Cellebrite to unlock the phones of journalists and activists in the nation before infecting them with malware. According to security experts, the Cellebrite forensic tools were probably used "widely" on members of civil society, Amnesty stated.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
AES-XTS Bitlocker encryption system Microsoft Vulnerabilities and Exploits

BitLocker Vulnerability Exposes Encryption Flaws: A New Challenge for Cybersecurity

 

Password theft has recently dominated headlines, with billions of credentials compromised. Amid this crisis, Microsoft has been pushing to replace traditional passwords with more secure authentication methods. However, a new vulnerability in the Windows BitLocker full-disk encryption tool has raised concerns about the security of even the most advanced encryption systems.

A medium-severity flaw in BitLocker, identified as CVE-2025-21210, has exposed the encryption system to a novel randomization attack targeting the AES-XTS encryption mode. This vulnerability highlights the increasing sophistication of cyberattacks against full-disk encryption systems. When exploited, it allows attackers to alter ciphertext blocks, causing sensitive data to be written to disk in plaintext.

Jason Soroko, Senior Fellow at Sectigo, explained the implications of this vulnerability. “BitLocker uses AES-XTS encryption to ensure that even if someone physically accesses the hard drive, they cannot easily read the data without the encryption key,” he noted. However, this new attack bypasses traditional decryption methods by manipulating how encrypted data is handled.

How the Randomization Attack Works

To illustrate the attack, Soroko used an analogy involving a library of books. “Rather than stealing or directly reading the books, the hacker subtly modifies certain pages (the ciphertext blocks) in multiple books,” he explained. While the rest of the book remains intact and unreadable, tampering with specific pages can cause the library’s system to misplace or disclose critical data.

Over time, these subtle modifications can lead to bits of data being written in plaintext, exposing sensitive information without directly breaking the encryption. “The real danger is that this method doesn’t require breaking the encryption directly,” Soroko concluded. “Instead, it manipulates how the encrypted data is handled, allowing attackers to bypass security measures and access sensitive information.”

Mitigating the Risk

To defend against such attacks, Soroko emphasized the importance of keeping encryption software up-to-date with the latest security patches. Additionally, organizations should:

  1. Restrict Physical Access: Ensure that devices with sensitive data are physically secure to prevent tampering.
  2. Monitor Systems: Regularly check for unusual activity that might indicate an attack or unauthorized access.
  3. Implement Layered Security: Combine encryption with other security measures, such as multi-factor authentication (MFA) and intrusion detection systems.

This vulnerability underscores the evolving nature of cyber threats. Even robust encryption systems like BitLocker are not immune to sophisticated attacks. As cybercriminals develop new methods to exploit vulnerabilities, organizations must remain vigilant and proactive in their cybersecurity strategies.

Microsoft’s push toward passwordless authentication is a step in the right direction, but this incident highlights the need for continuous improvement in encryption technologies. Companies must invest in advanced security solutions, regular system updates, and employee training to stay ahead of emerging threats.

The BitLocker vulnerability serves as a stark reminder that no system is entirely foolproof. As encryption technologies evolve, so do the methods used to exploit them. Organizations must adopt a multi-layered approach to cybersecurity, combining encryption with other protective measures to safeguard sensitive data. By staying informed and proactive, we can better defend against the ever-changing landscape of cyber threats.

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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Cloudfare Discord Signal User Privacy Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Cloudflare CDN Vulnerability Exposes User Locations on Signal, Discord

 

A threat analyst identified a vulnerability in Cloudflare's content delivery network (CDN) which could expose someone's whereabouts just by sending them an image via platforms such as Signal and Discord. While the attack's geolocation capability is limited for street-level tracking, it can provide enough information to determine a person's regional region and track their activities. 

Daniel's discovery is especially alarming for individuals who are really concerned regarding their privacy, such as journalists, activists, dissidents, and even cybercriminals. This flaw, however, can help investigators by giving them further details about the state or nation where a suspect might be. 

Covert zero-click monitoring

Daniel, a security researcher, found three months ago that Cloudflare speeds up load times by caching media resources at the data centre closest to the user. 

"3 months ago, I discovered a unique 0-click deanonymization attack that allows an attacker to grab the location of any target within a 250 mile radius," explained Daniel. "With a vulnerable app installed on a target's phone (or as a background application on their laptop), an attacker can send a malicious payload and deanonymize you within seconds--and you wouldn't even know.” 

To carry out the information-disclosure assault, the researcher would transmit a message to an individual including a unique image, such as a screenshot or a profile avatar, stored on Cloudflare's CDN. 

Subsequently, he exploited a flaw in Cloudflare Workers to force queries through specific data centres via a new tool called Cloudflare Teleport. This arbitrary routing is typically prohibited by Cloudflare's default security limitations, which require that each request be routed from the nearest data centre. 

By enumerating cached replies from multiple Cloudflare data centres for the sent image, the researcher was able to map users' geographical locations based on the CDN returning the closest airport code to their data centre.

Furthermore, since many apps, like Signal and Discord, automatically download images for push notifications, an attacker can monitor a target without requiring user engagement, resulting in a zero-click attack. Tracking accuracy extends from 50 to 300 miles, depending on the location and the number of Cloudflare data centers nearby.
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WireGuard
IPsec Security VPN Vulnerabilities and Exploits WireGuard

Critical Flaws in VPN Protocols Leave Millions Vulnerable

 


Virtual Private Networks (VPNs) are widely trusted for protecting online privacy, bypassing regional restrictions, and securing sensitive data. However, new research has uncovered serious flaws in some VPN protocols, exposing millions of systems to potential cyberattacks.

A study by Top10VPN, conducted in collaboration with cybersecurity expert Mathy Vanhoef, highlights these alarming issues. The research, set to be presented at the USENIX 2025 Conference, reveals vulnerabilities in VPN tunnelling protocols affecting over 4 million systems worldwide. Impacted systems include:

  • VPN servers
  • Home routers
  • Mobile networks
  • Corporate systems used by companies such as Meta and Tencent

The Problem with VPN Tunneling Protocols

Tunneling protocols are essential mechanisms that encrypt and protect data as it travels between a user and a VPN server. However, the study identified critical weaknesses in specific protocols, including:

  • IP6IP6
  • GRE6
  • 4in6
  • 6in4

These vulnerabilities allow attackers to bypass security measures by sending manipulated data packets through the affected protocols, enabling unauthorized access and a range of malicious activities, such as:

  • Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks disrupting systems
  • Stealing sensitive information by breaching private networks
  • Undetected repeated infiltrations

Advanced encryption tools like IPsec and WireGuard play a crucial role in safeguarding data. These technologies provide strong end-to-end encryption, ensuring data is decoded only by the intended server. This added security layer prevents hackers from exploiting weak points in VPN systems.

The vulnerabilities are not confined to specific regions. They predominantly affect servers and services in the following countries:

  • United States
  • Brazil
  • China
  • France
  • Japan

Both individual users and large organizations are impacted, emphasizing the need for vigilance and regular updates.

How to Stay Protected

To enhance VPN security, consider these steps:

  1. Choose a VPN with strong encryption protocols: Look for services that utilize tools like IPsec or WireGuard.
  2. Regularly update your VPN software: Updates often include patches for fixing vulnerabilities.
  3. Research your VPN provider: Opt for reputable services with a proven track record in cybersecurity.

This research serves as a critical reminder: while VPNs are designed to protect privacy, they are not immune to flaws. Users must remain proactive, prioritize robust security features, and stay informed about emerging vulnerabilities.

By taking these precautions, both individuals and organizations can significantly reduce the risks associated with these newly discovered VPN flaws. Remember, no tool is entirely foolproof — staying informed is the key to online safety.

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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
CyberCrime Cyberfrauds Cybersecurity Cyberthreats Darkweb Databreach Hackers Vulnerabilities and Exploits

FortiGate Vulnerability Exposes 15,000 Devices to Risks

 



Fortinet Firewall Data Breach: 15,000 Devices Compromised by Belsen Group

On January 14, 2025, it was reported that the configuration data of over 15,000 Fortinet FortiGate firewalls was leaked on the dark web. The hacker group, identified as Belsen, shared this data for free on its newly created TOR website. The leaked information includes full firewall configurations, plaintext VPN credentials organized by IP address and country, serial numbers, management certificates, and other sensitive data. This breach poses a significant security risk to affected organizations, as it enables attackers to compromise internal networks with ease.

Exploitation of Critical Vulnerabilities

According to cybersecurity analysts, the Belsen Group exploited a zero-day vulnerability, identified as CVE-2022-40684, to obtain the leaked data. This vulnerability, published in 2022, allowed attackers to bypass administrative authentication through specially crafted HTTP/HTTPS requests. By leveraging this flaw, the attackers exfiltrated configuration files containing sensitive details such as passwords, firewall rules, and advanced settings. These files, though obtained in 2022, remained undisclosed until January 2025, significantly increasing the risk exposure for affected organizations.

In response to this ongoing threat, Fortinet released patches for CVE-2022-40684 and announced a new critical authentication bypass vulnerability, CVE-2024-55591, on the same day the leak was disclosed. This new vulnerability is being actively exploited in campaigns targeting FortiGate firewalls, particularly those with public-facing administrative interfaces. Devices running outdated FortiOS versions are especially at risk.

Impact and Recommendations

The leaked configuration files provide a comprehensive map of victim networks, including firewall rules and administrator credentials. Threat actors can exploit this information to:

  • Bypass perimeter defenses and gain unauthorized access to internal networks.
  • Deploy ransomware, perform lateral movement, and exfiltrate sensitive data.
  • Identify additional vulnerabilities within the network architecture to maximize attack impact.

Organizations affected by this breach must take immediate action to mitigate risks. This includes:

  • Updating credentials for all compromised devices.
  • Applying the latest security patches, including fixes for CVE-2022-40684 and CVE-2024-55591.
  • Conducting thorough security audits to identify and address additional vulnerabilities.

Cybersecurity expert Kevin Beaumont has announced plans to release an IP list from the leak to help FortiGate administrators determine if their devices were affected. Meanwhile, security firms like CloudSEK and Arctic Wolf have emphasized the importance of prioritizing updates and vigilance against future exploitation campaigns.

Fortinet devices' history of vulnerabilities has made them frequent targets for cybercriminals and nation-state actors. Addressing these security gaps is crucial to preventing further breaches and protecting sensitive organizational data.

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Windows Security
Bitlocker Security flaw TPM Vulnerabilities and Exploits Windows Security

TPM-Equipped Devices Trigger Warnings Due to a Windows BitLocker Flaw

 

Microsoft is examining a flaw that activates security alerts on systems equipped with a Trusted Platform Module (TPM) processor after enabling BitLocker. 

A Windows security feature called BitLocker encrypts storage discs to guard against data leakage or theft. Redmond claims that when combined with a TPM, it "provides maximum protection" "to ensure that a device hasn't been tampered with while the system is offline.”  

TPMs are specialised security processors that offer hardware-based security features and serve as reliable hardware parts for storing private data, including encryption keys and other security credentials.

The company stated in a notice issued past week that unmanaged devices, or BYOD (bring your own device), are also impacted by this known vulnerability. These are typically privately held devices utilised in business settings that can be secured or onboard using methods provided by the IT or security department of each firm.  

Users of vulnerable Windows 10 and 11 PCs will notice a "For your security, some settings are managed by your administrator" alert "in the BitLocker control panel and other places in Windows.” 

The tech giant noted that it is currently working on a fix and will provide further details regarding the flaw when it has more information. In April 2024, Microsoft resolved another issue that led to faulty BitLocker drive encryption issues in select managed Windows environments. In October 2023, the company classified this as a reporting issue with no impact on drive encryption.  

Microsoft revealed in June 2021 that TPM 2.0 is required for installing or upgrading to Windows 11, claiming that it will make PCs more resistant to manipulation and sophisticated cyberattacks. However, this has not prevented Windows users from developing a variety of tools, programs, and strategies to circumvent it. 

More than three years later, in December 2024, Redmond emphasised that TPM 2.0 compliance is a "non-negotiable" condition, as consumers will be unable to upgrade to Windows 11 without it. According to Statcounter Global data, more than 62% of all Windows computers globally are still using Windows 10, with less than 34% on Windows 11 three years after its October 2021 launch. 
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Cyberfrauds CyberThreat Cyercrime Cyersecurity Email Phishing Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Millions of Email Servers Found Vulnerable in Encryption Analysis

 


In a new study published by ShadowServer, it was revealed that 3.3 million POP3 (Post Office Protocol) and IMAP (Internet Message Access Protocol) servers are currently at risk of network sniffing attacks because they are not encrypting their data using TLS. 

Using IMAP, users can access their emails from different devices, while keeping messages on the server. With POP3, however, the messages are downloaded to one specific device, which restricts access to that particular device, resulting in IMAP and POP3 being used to access email. Mail servers can be accessed through two different methods: POP3 and IMAP. POP3 is a way to access email through a server. 

A good reason to use IMAP is that it stores users' emails on the server and synchronizes them across all their devices. This allows them to check their inbox across multiple devices, such as laptops and phones. However, POP3 works by downloading emails from the server and making them only accessible from the device from which they were downloaded. Additionally, there is no denying that many hosting companies configure POP3 and IMAP services by default, even though most users do not use them. 

It is important to note that it is very common to have those services configured by default. To ensure that TLS is enabled, and all email users use the latest version of the protocol, the organization advised them to check with their email provider. With the latest versions of Apple, Google, Microsoft, and Mozilla email platforms, users can rest assured that their information is already protected thanks to the TLS encryption protocol. 

To securely exchange and access emails across the Internet using client/server applications, the TLS secure communication protocol helps secure users' information while exchanging and accessing. In the absence of TLS encryption, the messages' content and credentials are sent in clear text, making them susceptible to network sniffing attacks that could eavesdrop on them. In the sense of a security protocol, TLS, or Transport Layer Security, is an Internet-based security protocol used for secure web browsing as well as encrypting emails, file transfers, and messaging messages. It is used to provide end-to-end security between applications over the Internet. 

It is the role of TLS to keep hackers away from sniffing the network, encrypting users' email credentials and message contents instead of sending them as plain text, which helps to prevent hackers from sniffing the network. As an alternative to TLS encryption, it is also possible for anyone to sniff out that information without encryption. To find out 3.3 million hosts that do not support TLS, ShadowServer scanned the internet for POP3 services running on ports 110 and 995. 

As of 2006, there has been widespread use of TLS 1.1 as an improvement over TLS 1.0, which had been introduced to the market in 1999, and TLS 1.0 remained in use until this very day. Having discussed and developed 28 protocol drafts, the Internet Engineering Task Force (IETF) approved TLS 1.3, the next major version of the TLS protocol, in March of 2018, after extensive discussions and development of 28 drafts. 

Without TLS, passwords for mail access could be intercepted, and exposed services could allow a password-guessing attack on the server, and without TLS, passwords could be intercepted, and the server could suffer from password-guessing attacks. Hosts can be eavesdropping on network sniffer attacks if credentials and message content are sent in clear text without encryption. 

It is estimated that about 900,000 of these sites reside in the United States with over 500,000 being in Germany and Poland with 380,000 being in Germany. However according to the researchers, no matter whether TLS is enabled or not, service exposure could result in a password-guessing attack against the server. As part of the coordinated announcement made by Microsoft, Google, Apple, and Mozilla in October 2018 informing the public that insecure TLS 1.0 and TLS 1.1 protocols would be retired in 2020, Microsoft, Google, Apple, and Mozilla announced their intentions. As of August 2020, the latest Windows 10 Insider builds have begun using TLS 1.3 by default. 

The National Security Agency also released a guide in January 2021 detailing how outdated versions of the TLS protocol, configurations, and versions can be identified and replaced with current, secure solutions. As a ShadowServer foundation spokesperson pointed out, “regardless of whether TLS is enabled or not, service exposure may enable password guessing attacks against the server regardless of whether TLS is enabled.” 

Email users are urged to make sure that their email service provider indeed enables TLS and that their email service provider is using the current version of the protocol. Regardless of whether they are using Apple, Google, Microsoft, or Mozilla email platforms, users need not be worried since they all support TLS and use the latest versions of it.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
DNS security issue firewall vulnerability malicious packets manual intervention Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS update Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Palo Alto Networks Alerts on Exploit Causing Firewall Vulnerabilities

 

Palo Alto Networks has issued a warning about the active exploitation of the CVE-2024-3393 denial of service (DoS) vulnerability, which attackers are using to compromise firewall defenses by triggering device reboots.

Repeated exploitation of this vulnerability forces the firewall to enter maintenance mode, requiring manual intervention to restore normal functionality.

"A Denial of Service vulnerability in the DNS Security feature of Palo Alto Networks PAN-OS software allows an unauthenticated attacker to send a malicious packet through the data plane of the firewall that reboots the firewall," the advisory states. The flaw enables an unauthenticated attacker to reboot affected devices by sending specifically crafted malicious packets.

This issue impacts devices where the 'DNS Security' logging feature is enabled. The affected PAN-OS versions are listed below. According to Palo Alto Networks, customers have already reported outages caused by firewalls blocking malicious DNS packets exploited through this vulnerability. The flaw has been addressed in the following PAN-OS versions: 10.1.14-h8, 10.2.10-h12, 11.1.5, 11.2.3, and later releases. However, no patch will be released for PAN-OS 11.0 due to its end-of-life (EOL) status as of November 17.

Palo Alto Networks has also provided workarounds for customers unable to immediately apply updates:

Mitigation Steps for Unmanaged NGFWs or Those Managed by Panorama:
  • Navigate to: Objects → Security Profiles → Anti-spyware → DNS Policies → DNS Security for each Anti-spyware profile.
  • Change the Log Severity to "none" for all configured DNS Security categories.
  • Commit the changes, then revert the settings after applying the fixes.
For NGFWs Managed by Strata Cloud Manager (SCM):
  • Option 1: Disable DNS Security logging directly on each NGFW using the steps above.
  • Option 2: Open a support case to disable DNS Security logging across all NGFWs in the tenant.
For Prisma Access Managed by SCM:
  • Open a support case to disable DNS Security logging across all NGFWs in the tenant.
  • If needed, request an expedited Prisma Access tenant upgrade through the support case.
The company urges all users to apply the recommended updates or follow the workarounds to mitigate the risk of exploitation.
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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cyberhackers Cybersecurity Cyberthreats Four-Fait Routers VulnCheck Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Critical Security Issue Hits Four-Faith Routers

 


According to VulnCheck, a critical vulnerability identified as CVE-2024-12856 has been discovered in Four-Faith industrial routers, specifically affecting the F3x24 and F3x36 models, as well as users’ machines. Evidence suggests active exploitation of this vulnerability in the wild, raising significant security concerns for industrial and enterprise users. The flaw resides in the router’s system time adjustment function, where a post-authentication vulnerability allows attackers to execute remote commands on compromised devices.

Technical Details of the Vulnerability

The routers, running firmware version 2.0, are susceptible to an authenticated remote command execution flaw via the HTTP endpoint apply.cgi. Attackers can manipulate the system time parameter using POST requests, enabling arbitrary command execution. Additionally, the firmware is configured with default credentials that, if left unchanged, can escalate the vulnerability to allow unauthenticated remote OS command injection.

Data provided by VulnCheck indicates that approximately 15,000 internet-facing routers may be affected by this issue. Exploitation campaigns have been observed since at least November 2024, with attackers altering system parameters remotely. The attacks appear to originate from multiple IP addresses and utilize Mirai-like payloads to compromise the devices. VulnCheck notes that some payloads share similarities with those used to exploit a prior vulnerability (CVE-2019-12168), although the underlying components differ.

Security researchers have identified attack patterns involving two primary IP addresses, including 178.215.238.91, as sources of active exploitation campaigns. User-Agent strings from these attacks match earlier campaigns documented in November 2024, with new payload variations targeting the identified flaw. While the attacks remain low-scale, they demonstrate a high level of persistence.

Censys data corroborates VulnCheck’s findings, suggesting that the vulnerability has been exploited consistently since its initial observation. Despite this, an official from Bains, speaking to The Hacker News, emphasized that the attacks are not widespread and appear to involve a small number of attackers using spamming techniques at a low frequency.

Mitigation Recommendations

As of now, there is no confirmation regarding the availability of security patches for the affected firmware. VulnCheck disclosed the vulnerability to Four-Faith on December 20, 2024, and awaits a response. In the interim, researchers strongly advise users to take the following measures to mitigate potential risks:

  • Immediately change default credentials on affected devices.
  • Restrict network exposure by placing routers behind firewalls or VPNs.
  • Monitor device activity for unusual or unauthorized behavior.
  • Implement detection rules, such as the Suricata rule provided by VulnCheck, to identify suspicious HTTP POST requests indicative of the attack.

Impact and Implications

By exploiting this vulnerability, attackers can gain full control over affected devices, including executing reverse shell commands to maintain persistent access while concealing their identities. Such control poses a severe threat to organizations reliant on Four-Faith routers for critical operations.

The absence of immediate patches has prompted security researchers to highlight the importance of adopting proactive measures. Organizations are advised to strengthen their defenses against suspicious activity while awaiting updates from Four-Faith. VulnCheck, adhering to responsible disclosure policies, has withheld additional technical details and information about patches until a response from the manufacturer is received.

This incident underscores the critical need for robust firmware security practices, including eliminating default credentials and ensuring timely patch management, to protect against emerging threats in industrial environments.

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Vulnerabilities and Exploits
Botnet Cyberattacks CyberCrime Cybersecurity CyberThreat Cyberthreats DDOS Attacks IoT Vulnerabilities and Exploits

Understanding and Preventing Botnet Attacks: A Comprehensive Guide

 


Botnet attacks exploit a command-and-control model, enabling hackers to control infected devices, often referred to as "zombie bots," remotely. The strength of such an attack depends on the number of devices compromised by the hacker’s malware, making botnets a potent tool for large-scale cyberattacks.

Any device connected to the internet is at risk of becoming part of a botnet, especially if it lacks regular antivirus updates. According to CSO Online, botnets represent one of the most significant and rapidly growing cybersecurity threats. In the first half of 2022 alone, researchers detected 67 million botnet connections originating from over 600,000 unique IP addresses.

Botnet attacks typically involve compromising everyday devices like smartphones, smart thermostats, and webcams, giving attackers access to thousands of devices without the owners' knowledge. Once compromised, these devices can be used to launch spam campaigns, steal sensitive data, or execute Distributed Denial of Service (DDoS) attacks. The infamous Mirai botnet attack in October 2016 demonstrated the devastating potential of botnets, temporarily taking down major websites such as Twitter, CNN, Reddit, and Netflix by exploiting vulnerabilities in IoT devices.

The Lifecycle of a Botnet

Botnets are created through a structured process that typically involves five key steps:

  1. Infection: Malware spreads through phishing emails, infected downloads, or exploiting software vulnerabilities.
  2. Connection: Compromised devices connect to a command-and-control (C&C) server, allowing the botmaster to issue instructions.
  3. Assignment: Bots are tasked with specific activities like sending spam or launching DDoS attacks.
  4. Execution: Bots operate collectively to maximize the impact of their tasks.
  5. Reporting: Bots send updates back to the C&C server about their activities and outcomes.

These steps allow cybercriminals to exploit botnets for coordinated and anonymous attacks, making them a significant threat to individuals and organizations alike.

Signs of a Compromised Device

Recognizing a compromised device is crucial. Look out for the following warning signs:

  • Lagging or overheating when the device is not in use.
  • Unexpected spikes in internet usage.
  • Unfamiliar or abnormal software behavior.

If you suspect an infection, run a malware scan immediately and consider resetting the device to factory settings for a fresh start.

How to Protect Against Botnet Attacks

Safeguarding against botnets doesn’t require extensive technical expertise. Here are practical measures to enhance your cybersecurity:

Secure Your Home Network

  • Set strong, unique passwords and change default router settings after installation.
  • Enable WPA3 encryption and hide your network’s SSID.

Protect IoT Devices

  • Choose products from companies that offer regular security updates.
  • Disable unnecessary features like remote access and replace default passwords.

Account Security

  • Create strong passwords using a password manager to manage credentials securely.
  • Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) for an added layer of security.

Stay Updated

  • Keep all software and firmware updated to patch vulnerabilities.
  • Enable automatic updates whenever possible.

Be Wary of Phishing

  • Verify communications directly with the source before providing sensitive information.
  • Avoid clicking on links or downloading attachments from untrusted sources.

Use Antivirus Software

  • Install reputable antivirus programs like Norton, McAfee, or free options like Avast.

Turn Off Devices When Not in Use

  • Disconnect smart devices like TVs, printers, and home assistants to minimize risks.

Organizations can mitigate botnet risks by deploying advanced endpoint protection, strengthening corporate cybersecurity systems, and staying vigilant against evolving threats. Implementing robust security measures ensures that businesses remain resilient against increasingly sophisticated botnet-driven cyberattacks.

Botnet attacks pose a serious threat to both individual and organizational cybersecurity. By adopting proactive and practical measures, users can significantly reduce the risk of becoming victims and contribute to a safer digital environment.

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