Malware Loaders Detected in 80% of Attacks
In a recent report, cybersecurity firm ReliaQuest has identified three malware loaders that account for 80% of observed cyber attacks. QakBot, SocGholish, and Raspberry Robin have emerged as the most popular tools among cybercriminals for deploying malicious payloads and compromising networks. The report covers the period from January 1 to July 31, 2023, and highlights the prevalence of these loaders in various industries and regions.
QakBot: An Evolving Threat
QakBot, also known as QBot or Quakbot, was originally a banking trojan but has since evolved into a sophisticated and versatile malware loader. It is commonly delivered through phishing emails and is associated with the BlackBasta ransomware group, which comprises former members of the Conti ransomware gang. QakBot has the capability to steal sensitive information, enable lateral movement within a network, and deploy additional payloads. ReliaQuest warns that the operators behind QakBot are resourceful and adaptable, making it a persistent threat that is likely to continue evolving.
SocGholish: Drive-by Download Attacks
SocGholish, also known as FakeUpdates, is a malware loader that is primarily deployed through drive-by downloads. This involves compromised websites offering fake updates to unsuspecting users. ReliaQuest has linked SocGholish to the Russia-based cybercrime group Evil Corp, which has been active since 2007. SocGholish’s operators have been observed conducting aggressive watering hole attacks against large organizations by leveraging compromised websites. These attacks have been particularly prevalent in the first half of 2023.
Raspberry Robin: Spreading through Removable Devices
Raspberry Robin is a Windows worm that has been spreading through removable devices, such as USB drives. It has been associated with various threat actors, including Evil Corp and Silence. Raspberry Robin has been observed deploying a wide range of ransomware and malware families, targeting financial institutions, government organizations, and telecommunications and manufacturing companies primarily in Europe. Its ability to spread through removable devices makes it a persistent threat in environments where these devices are commonly used.
The Impact of These Loaders
The prevalence of QakBot, SocGholish, and Raspberry Robin in cyber attacks highlights the evolving tactics and techniques employed by cybercriminals. These loaders can be used to deliver a wide range of payloads, including ransomware, which can have devastating consequences for organizations. The ability of these loaders to adapt and evade detection poses a significant challenge for cybersecurity professionals.
Recommendations for Mitigating the Risk
To mitigate the risk posed by these malware loaders, organizations should prioritize proactive cybersecurity measures. This includes implementing robust email security solutions to detect and block phishing emails that may deliver QakBot. Regular security awareness training for employees can also help prevent successful phishing attacks. Additionally, organizations should implement network segmentation to limit the lateral movement of malware within their networks. Regular patching and updating of software and systems is also critical to prevent exploitation by SocGholish and Raspberry Robin.
The Need for Continued Vigilance
The prevalence of QakBot, SocGholish, and Raspberry Robin highlights the ongoing cybersecurity challenges that organizations face. Cybercriminals are constantly evolving their tactics and techniques, making it imperative for organizations to stay informed and vigilant. The report from ReliaQuest serves as a reminder that cybersecurity is an ongoing battle that requires constant attention and investment. By prioritizing proactive measures and staying up to date with the latest threats, organizations can better defend their networks and data against these persistent and pervasive malware loaders.
Works Cited
Arghire, I. (2023, August 28). 3 Malware Loaders Detected in 80% of Attacks: Security Firm. SecurityWeek. Markus Spiske >>
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