Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence - February 21–25

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence - February 21–25 - Featured Image

Weekly Threat Briefing February 25, 2022

The Good

The decryptor harvest has been really good lately. This week, researchers successfully developed a decryptor for victims of Hive ransomware by exploiting an encryption flaw in the ransomware. In another development, a new coalition was announced that brings together at least 22 nonprofit organizations dedicated to cybersecurity to protect vulnerable organizations from cyberattacks.

  • Researchers successfully leveraged a cryptographic vulnerability to retrieve the decryption key for Hive ransomware. The ransomware was first observed in June 2021 and makes use of a variety of initial compromise methods, including vulnerable RDP servers, compromised VPN credentials, and phishing emails with malicious attachments.
  • The DoJ announced new policies to keep hacking victims safe. This involves taking pre-emptive actions against attackers, such as providing decryptor keys or seizing their servers.
  • Ukrainian police detained members of a phishing group that pilfered payment card data of at least 70,000 individuals by luring them into fake mobile service top-up sites. According to the law enforcement authorities, the threat actors used the stolen information to empty the victims' bank accounts.
  • A group of nonprofits has formed a coalition that will collectively align their cybersecurity research, tools, and resources to help protect vulnerable organizations from cyberattacks. Named Nonprofit Cyber, it includes at least 22 nonprofits, including the Center for Internet Security, the Cloud Security Alliance, the Cyber Threat Alliance, the Cyber Peace Institute, the Global Cyber Alliance, MITRE’s Engenuity Center for Threat Informed Defense, SAFECode, and Consumer Reports, among others.
  • New York City established a centralized cybersecurity hub to aid state officers in times of a cyber crisis. The Joint Security Operations Center consists of experts from state and federal law enforcement agencies, NYC3, and representatives from the country and local governments.
  • The NIST’s National Cybersecurity Center of Excellence released the final version of the Securing Telehealth Remote Patient Monitoring Ecosystem guidance. This guidance is designed to support healthcare providers in ensuring the security of telehealth services and remote patient monitoring.
  • Following reports of its imminent retirement, the modular Windows malware platform TrickBot has formally shut down its botnet infrastructure this week. The notorious malware operated by a Russian threat actor had been largely inactive for the past two months leading up to the shutdown.

The Bad

Phishing attacks continue to be a security concern for the financial services sector as Monzo and Citibank customers became victims of text-based and email phishing campaigns, respectively. Ukrainian organizations were hit by a new data wiper as well as DDoS attacks in a continued cyber-physical crisis facing the country. Threats involving open-source software have not yet subsided as several malicious NPM packages were spotted stealing Discord tokens.

  • A hack on the OpenSea platform affected its 32 users. This caused a loss of 254 tokens, which amounted to nearly $1.7 million. While the attack is no more active, it is believed that the affected users might have signed a malicious payload sent by the attack. The attack vector is still unknown.
  • An investigation into the cyberattack targeting the Islamic Republic of Iran Broadcasting (IRIB) reveals that the attackers had deployed a wiper malware and other custom implants. The incident had occurred in January and disrupted the state’s broadcasting networks.
  • Customers of all-digital bank Monzo are being targeted in an SMS-based phishing attack that steals sensitive information from their accounts. The SMS asks the receiver to click on a phishing link to confirm their account by entering their username and password. In another campaign, the customers of Citibank were targeted with emails purporting to be account suspension alerts and demanding them to verify their details to avoid permanent suspension.
  • Owners of Asustor NAS devices were left without access to their devices owing to an attack by DeadBolt ransomware. The victims were asked to pay a ransom of 0.03 Bitcoin to receive the decryption key.
  • Researchers detected around 25 malicious npm packages, 17 of which were designed to steal Discord tokens. If attackers got access to these tokens, they could use them to infiltrate a victim’s account and hijack Discord servers. The researchers also noted that many of the packages masqueraded as the colors.js npm package.
  • The Russia-Ukraine crisis spilled into the cyber domain as multiple Ukrainian government sites and two of the country’s largest banks were once again hit with a wave of DDoS attacks. In another development, a new data wiper malware, dubbed HermeticWiper, was found targeting organizations in the financial sector and government contractors in Ukraine.
  • A new attack campaign was found targeting publicly-exposed, unpatched Microsoft SQL servers. The attackers are scanning port 1433 to check for vulnerable servers to launch brute force or dictionary attacks to gain access to system admin accounts. Consequently, the attackers deploy Cobalt Strike beacons on targeted hosts.
  • A new supply chain attack, which goes by the codename of Operation Cache Panda, is underway since November 2021. Attributed to the APT10 threat actor group, the campaign targets Taiwan’s financial sector by leveraging a vulnerability in a security software solution. The attackers also made use of credential stuffing attacks as a cover to evade detection and reflective code loading to run malicious code on local systems. Attackers installed a version of the Quasar RAT as part of the attack.

New Threats

Software piracy is a minefield of cyber threats. Now, a new variant of the CryptBot infostealer is being distributed via pirated software sites that use SEO poisoning tactics. Google Play Store has become another festering spot for malicious apps delivering a new trojan - Xenomorph. A new threat, namely ice phishing, targeting Web3 and blockchain networks has also been reported this week.

  • Researchers spotted a new Coinminer dubbed Coinminer.MacOS.MALXMR.H in early January. The malware has been designed to target macOS machines and uses open-source components, as well as an I2P network to hide its traffic. It is primarily used to mine Monero cryptocurrency.
  • Microsoft warned about a new class of threats, named ice phishing, affecting Web3 and blockchain networks. Ice phishing involves luring a user into signing an agreement that assigns the user’s tokens to the malicious actor. It completely ignores private keys. The transaction requires interaction with DeFi smart contracts for a token swap to occur.
  • A new version of CryptBot infostealer was found being distributed via pirated software sites that offered free downloads for games and pro-grade software. The operators behind the malware leverage SEO poisoning tactics to increase the visibility of these sites. The malware is capable of stealing browser credentials, cookies, browser history, cryptocurrency wallets, and credit card details.
  • A new banking trojan called Xenomorph has infected more than 50,000 Android devices. The trojan was distributed via Google Play Store in the form of fake performance-boosting apps. The trojan is designed to steal sensitive banking details, take control of users’ accounts, and initiate unauthorized transactions.
  • A new phishing technique deciphered by researchers can allow attackers to launch malicious code into a victim’s browser, plant a keylogger, and eavesdrop on users’ activities. The method bypasses the 2FA authentication protocol and can be executed via specially-crafted email that includes a link. Once clicked, it redirects users to a malicious web page.
  • In a new update, researchers have found similarities between the prominent Dridex trojan and little-known Entropy ransomware. The similarities are in the software packer used to conceal the ransomware code, in the obfuscation commands, and in the subroutines used to decrypt encrypted text.
  • In a joint advisory by U.S. and U.K cybersecurity agencies, officials warned about a new malware dubbed Cyclops Blink that has been linked to the Russian-backed Sandworm hacking group. The Sandworm operators used the malware to create a botnet since at least June 2019 by targeting WatchGuard Firebox and other SOHO network devices.
  • Researchers from China's Pangu Lab disclosed details of a malware backdoor, dubbed Bvp47, used by the Equation Group. The malware is said to have advanced covert channel behavior based on TCP SYN packets, code obfuscation, system hiding, and a self-destruction design.
  • Researchers at Positive Security built an Apple Airtag clone that is able to bypass anti-stalking protection features while running on Apple's Find My protocol. The cloned Airtags could be used to successfully track iPhone users without triggering a tracking notification.

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Jun 20, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, June 16–20, 2025

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Jun 6, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, June 02–06, 2025

Authorities have taken down a major hub for stolen financial data. The DOJ seized approximately 145 domains associated with the BidenCash marketplace, which had evolved from a small credit card shop in 2022 into a massive hub for stolen payment data. In a move to reinforce Europe’s cyber defenses, Microsoft is stepping in with strategic support. The newly launched European Security Program offers EU governments free access to AI-driven threat intelligence, vulnerability alerts, and guidance to counter attacks from state-sponsored actors. Not all GitHub projects are built with good intentions. Researchers uncovered a widespread campaign involving more than 130 repositories booby-trapped with malware disguised as game cheats, hacking tools, and utilities. A free software download could end up costing your entire crypto wallet. ViperSoftX is back in circulation, targeting crypto users with malicious PowerShell scripts bundled into cracked apps, keygens, and torrent packages. Some attackers mine crypto, JINX-0132 mines misconfigurations. This threat actor is running a stealthy cryptojacking campaign against DevOps platforms, exploiting exposed defaults and overlooked RCE flaws. Destruction masquerading as maintenance tools is hitting Ukraine’s infrastructure. Researchers attributed a new wiper malware called PathWiper to a Russia-linked APT group, targeting critical systems by leveraging legitimate administrative frameworks. A few swapped letters could be all it takes to get owned. A new supply chain attack targets Python and npm developers through typo-squatting and name confusion. A new Android banking trojan, named Crocodilus, has emerged in the threat landscape. It masquerades as legitimate apps like Google Chrome and uses overlay attacks to steal credentials from financial apps.

May 30, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, May 26–30, 2025

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May 23, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, May 19–23, 2025

Operation Endgame just dealt a major blow to the ransomware supply chain. Europol led the charge in dismantling malware infrastructure tied to multiple malware families, seizing 300 servers and more. Japan has officially gone on the cyber offense. The new Active Cyberdefense Law allows preemptive strikes against foreign cyber threats. It enables traffic analysis and takedowns of hostile servers. Think twice before clicking on that Ledger update. A new macOS malware campaign is deploying fake versions of the Ledger Live app to steal cryptocurrency seed phrases. A Turkish phishing lure leads straight to SnakeKeylogger. Fake AI tools are the new phishing lures and they’re convincing. Cybercriminals cloned Kling AI’s brand through Facebook ads and spoofed websites to trick users into downloading malware. The DBatLoader (aka ModiLoader) malware is making the rounds again - this time disguised as a Turkish bank email. The copyright threat in your inbox might be bait. A phishing campaign sweeping across central and eastern Europe is using fake legal complaints to deliver the Rhadamanthys Stealer. Two years of silence, 6,200 downloads later - the malware is finally found. A malicious campaign targeting JavaScript developers slipped past detection by disguising harmful npm packages as plugins for frameworks like React, Vue.js, Vite, and Quill Editor. Researchers uncovered a stealthy new backdoor paired with a Monero coinminer, using the PyBitmessage library for encrypted peer-to-peer communications.

May 9, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, May 05–09, 2025

Another blow to DDoS-for-hire networks. Europol has shut down six services used to launch global cyberattacks, arresting suspects in Poland and seizing domains in the U.S. The UN has launched a new framework to help policymakers make sense of cyber intrusions. Called UNIDIR Intrusion Path, it complements models like MITRE ATT&CK but simplifies the technical details. It breaks down attacker activity into three layers, making it easier to evaluate threats in a policy context. Old routers are becoming cybercrime goldmines. The FBI has warned that end-of-life routers are being hijacked with malware like TheMoon and sold on proxy networks such as 5Socks and Anyproxy. These compromised devices are used for crypto theft, cybercrime-as-a-service, and even espionage. Crypto users on Discord are the latest targets of a phishing campaign tied to Inferno Drainer. Attackers were found impersonating the Collab.Land bot to trick users into signing malicious transactions. The Play ransomware group has joined the list of actors exploiting CVE-2025-29824. This Windows zero-day in the CLFS driver enables privilege escalation via a race condition during file operations. Linked to the Balloonfly group, the attacks targeted a U.S. organization and included deployment of the Grixba infostealer. COLDRIVER’s latest malware, LOSTKEYS, is now in play. The Russian state-backed group is deploying this tool to steal files and system data from advisors, journalists, NGOs, and individuals linked to Ukraine. Agenda’s playbook just got upgraded. The ransomware group has added two new tools: SmokeLoader and a stealthy .NET-based loader called NETXLOADER. The latter leverages techniques like JIT hooking and AES decryption to deploy ransomware. Corporate HR teams are the latest target in a spear-phishing spree by Venom Spider. Disguised as job applications, these emails deliver More_eggs backdoor, now upgraded with advanced features.

May 2, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, April 28–May 02, 2025

The FBI just dropped a massive breadcrumb trail. Details of 42,000 phishing domains tied to the LabHost platform have been released to help defenders investigate potential breaches. The service enabled the theft of 500,000 credit cards and over a million credentials. The takedown of JokerOTP has exposed just how far phishing has evolved. The tool was used in more than 28,000 attacks across 13 countries, tricking victims into handing over 2FA codes by mimicking trusted brands. The operation cost victims £7.5 million and has now led to serious criminal charges, thanks to a joint effort involving Europol and Dutch authorities. Malware’s now hitching a ride on Go modules. Socket has uncovered three malicious packages hiding disk-wiping payloads, designed to cause irreversible data loss, especially on Linux systems. These modules take advantage of Go’s decentralized ecosystem. In the shadows of the cybersecurity landscape, MintsLoader emerges as a formidable adversary, orchestrating a multi-faceted infection strategy that deploys the notorious GhostWeaver RAT. Some PyPI packages are doing more than importing functions. Researchers uncovered seven malicious Python packages under the “Coffin” naming scheme, using Gmail’s SMTP service as a stealthy C2 channel. Ransomware groups aren’t always the ones breaking the door open. Researchers have uncovered ToyMaker, an initial access broker selling network entry to ransomware groups. Using a custom malware strain called LAGTOY, ToyMaker establishes reverse shells and executes commands on compromised systems. New vulnerabilities in Apple’s AirPlay protocol, collectively dubbed AirBorne, expose billions of devices to remote code execution without user interaction. Sharp and TX stealers are back, donning a new cloak - named Hannibal Stealer. It is going after credentials from browsers, crypto wallets, FTP clients, and VPN apps. It even captures Discord tokens and Steam sessions.

Apr 25, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, April 21–25, 2025

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Apr 11, 2025

Cyware Weekly Threat Intelligence, April 07–11, 2025

The U.K. government rolled out a Cyber Governance Code of Practice aimed at directors and board members, not just CISOs. Backed by the NCSC and other national bodies, the code includes practical actions, modular training, and a board-level toolkit. Startups building the future of cyber defense are getting serious backing. The British Business Bank has committed most of a £50 million fund to Osney Capital, which will invest in early-stage cybersecurity companies across the U.K. A torrent download might be doing more than delivering cracked software. A campaign has been distributing ViperSoftX to Korean users, likely run by Arabic-speaking threat actors. Invasive spyware campaigns are zeroing in on high-risk communities. MOONSHINE and BADBAZAAR are being deployed through trojanized mobile apps to surveil Uyghur, Tibetan, and Taiwanese individuals, as well as civil society groups. Search for QuickBooks during tax season, and you might land on a trap. Threat actors are placing deceptive Google Ads that link to phishing pages almost identical to the real QuickBooks login portal. It starts with a PDF search and ends with malware on your machine. A new campaign is using fake CAPTCHAs and Cloudflare Turnstile to lure users into downloading LegionLoader. Seed phrases aren’t supposed to come from strangers. The PoisonSeed campaign is targeting crypto holders and enterprise users by compromising bulk email services. Victims are lured with fake wallet setup instructions that embed attacker-controlled recovery phrases - giving threat actors full access once the wallets are used. A Chinese-linked threat group, ToddyCat, has been exploiting a security vulnerability in ESET's software to deliver a new malware, TCESB, in Asia.