Ars Technica used in malware campaign with unprecedented obfuscation!
Summary:
In a recent campaign, Ars Technica was used to deliver second-stage malware using a never-before-seen attack chain. The campaign involved uploading a benign image of a pizza to a third-party website and linking it with a URL pasted into the “about” page of a registered Ars Technica user. The URL contained a payload hidden within a string of random characters. The campaign also targeted Vimeo, where a benign video was uploaded with a malicious string included in the video description. Devices already infected with the first-stage malware retrieved these strings and installed the second stage. This novel method of abuse is difficult to detect, and researchers from Mandiant, a security firm, wanted to highlight it. Mandiant tracks the threat actor responsible for the campaign, known as UNC4990, which has been active since at least 2020 and is motivated by financial gain.
What’s going on here?
The article discusses how Ars Technica and Vimeo were used in a malware campaign that employed a unique attack chain. Malicious payloads were hidden within benign images and videos by embedding them within URLs or video descriptions. Devices already infected with the first-stage malware automatically retrieved these payloads and installed the second stage. This technique is novel and challenging to detect, making it an interesting development for security researchers.
What does this mean?
The campaign showcases a new method of malware delivery that exploits unsuspecting platforms like Ars Technica and Vimeo. By hiding malicious payloads within seemingly harmless content, threat actors can bypass security measures and infect targeted devices. This means that users need to be cautious even when visiting trusted websites or platforms, as they can unknowingly become victims of malware attacks. It also highlights the importance of regularly updating security measures and educating users about potential risks.
Why should I care?
As technology evolves, so do the methods employed by cybercriminals. The use of unique attack chains, like the one described in this article, means that traditional security measures may not be sufficient to prevent malware infections. By staying informed about emerging threats, users can take proactive steps to protect their devices and personal information. Understanding the techniques and strategies employed by threat actors can help raise awareness and enable individuals and organizations to implement effective security measures.
For more information, check out the original article here.
