Microsoft started limiting macros in Office files by default in February 2022, making it more difficult for attackers to execute malicious code. According to data gathered by the HP Threat Research team, attackers have been changing their methods since Q2 2022 in an effort to identify new ways to hack devices and steal data.
The Rise of QR Scan Scams
The research findings were based on data collected from millions of endpoints using HP Wolf Security:
Since October 2022, HP has witnessed QR code “scan scam” campaigns almost daily. These frauds persuade users to scan QR codes with their mobile devices while connected to their PCs, potentially exploiting the lack of phishing protection and detection on such devices. Users can access fraudulent websites that request credit and debit card information by scanning QR codes. Examples from Q4 include phishing attempts that pose as parcel delivery services seeking money.
38% Rise in Malicious PDF Attachment:
The recent assaults avoid web gateway scanners by using embedded images that link to malicious ZIP files that are encrypted. The PDF instructions fool the user into providing a password to unpack a ZIP file, allowing QakBot or IcedID malware to gain access to systems unauthorization and serve as beachheads for ransomware.
42% of Malware was Delivered Inside Archives Files Like ZIP, RAR, and IMG:
Archives have gained a whooping 20% rise in popularity since Q1 2022, as threat actors use scripts to execute their payloads. In contrast, 38% of malware is distributed via Office documents like Microsoft Word, Excel, and PowerPoint.
Alex Holland, Senior Malware Analyst at HP Wolf Security threat research team said, “We have seen malware distributors like Emotet try to work around Office’s stricter macro policy with complex social engineering tactics, which we believe are proving less effective. But when one door closes, another opens – as shown by the rise in scan scams, malvertising, archives, and PDF malware.”
“Users should look out for emails and websites that ask to scan QR codes and give up sensitive data, and PDF files linking to password-protected archives,” added Holland.
Threat Actors Still Rely on Social Engineering
HP researchers also discovered eight malware families imitated in 24 popular software projects in Q4's malvertising efforts, as compared to just two such operations in Q3's. The attacks rely on people clicking on search engine adverts that take them to malicious websites that resemble legitimate websites nearly identity.
Dr. Ian Pratt, Global Head of Security for Personal Systems, HP says “While techniques evolve, threat actors still rely on social engineering to target users at the endpoint.”
“Organizations should deploy strong isolation to contain the most common attack vectors like email, web browsing and downloads. Combine this with credential protection solutions that warn or prevent users from entering sensitive details onto suspicious sites to greatly reduce the attack surface and improve an organization’s security posture,” concludes Pratt.