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UAC-0063 Targeted Ukraine Government for Cyber Espionage
UAC-0063, a cyber espionage group tracked by CERT-UA, targeted a Ukrainian government agency between April 18-20, 2023. Using phishing emails with macro-enabled Word documents, the group deployed malware including LOGPIE keylogger, CHERRYSPY Python backdoor, and STILLARCH data search and exfiltration tool. CERT-UA advises monitoring and restricting living-off-the-land binaries and suspicious Python usage.
Deadly Russian Malware With Impact Against the Industrial Power Grid
Mandiant researchers discovered Russian-linked malware CosmicEnergy designed to disrupt power grids by targeting IEC-104 devices. Found on VirusTotal, CosmicEnergy is Python-based and resembles malware used against Ukraine's energy sector. It exploits MSSQL servers to send remote commands, posing a significant threat to critical infrastructure in Europe, the Middle East, and Asia.
Threat Group, "GUI-vil" Prefers GUI for Coinmining Operations
The financially motivated threat group GUI-vil, tracked by Permiso, has been active in cloud cryptomining operations since 2021. Preferring GUI tools over CLI utilities, GUI-vil exploits vulnerabilities and exposed credentials to launch large EC2 instances for mining cryptocurrency. The group's operational tactics include mimicking legitimate users and adapting persistence to avoid detection. GUI-vil's activity, including using tools like S3 Browser and AWS Management Console, underscores the need for robust cloud security measures.
Earlier Intrusions from Volt Typhoon
Secureworks reveals early intrusions by the Chinese espionage group Volt Typhoon (BRONZE SILHOUETTE), targeting critical infrastructure in 2021 and 2022. Volt Typhoon employs living-off-the-land binaries and web shells for persistence and stealth. Notable tactics include exploiting public-facing applications and compromised credentials, obtaining the ntds.dit AD database, and using reconnaissance commands. The group's minimal intrusion footprint makes detection challenging, emphasizing the need for vigilant monitoring and robust security measures.
Chinese Hackers Compromised US Infrastructure for Data Collection and Disruption
Volt Typhoon, a Chinese espionage group, has been targeting US critical infrastructure since 2021, focusing on intelligence collection and developing capabilities for potential disruption. The group uses living-off-the-land binaries (LOLBins) and proxies traffic through compromised network devices for stealth. Industries targeted include communications, government, education, manufacturing, maritime, and utilities. Organizations are urged to monitor for suspicious activities and secure their networks.
Cyberattacks Escalating Between China & Taiwan
Geopolitical tensions between China and Taiwan have led to a surge in cyberattacks, with a significant increase in malicious email distribution targeting Taiwanese individuals. Trellix reports a fourfold increase in such emails from April 7th to April 10th, 2023, targeting the technology, manufacturing, and logistics sectors. The PlugX RAT, commonly used by Chinese-linked threat groups, has been the primary payload, aiding in intelligence collection and espionage.
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