Backdoor
RansomHub ransomware uses new Betruger ‘multi-function’ backdoor
A newly identified custom backdoor deployed in several recent ransomware attacks has been linked to at least one RansomHub ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) operation affiliate. Symantec researchers who named this malware Betruger describe it as a “rare example of a multi-function backdoor” that was likely engineered for use in ransomware attacks. The malware’s capabilities include a wide range of […]
Chinese cyberspies backdoor Juniper routers for stealthy access
Chinese hackers are deploying custom backdoors on Juniper Networks Junos OS MX routers that have reached end-of-life (EoL) and no longer receive security updates. The backdoors are primarily variants of the TinyShell malware, an open-source tool that facilitates data exchange and command execution on Linux systems, and which has been used by multiple threat groups over the years. […]
Undocumented “backdoor” found in Bluetooth chip used by a billion devices
The ubiquitous ESP32 microchip made by Chinese manufacturer Espressif and used by over 1 billion units as of 2023 contains an undocumented “backdoor” that could be leveraged for attacks. The undocumented commands allow spoofing of trusted devices, unauthorized data access, pivoting to other devices on the network, and potentially establishing long-term persistence. This was discovered […]
Privacy tech firms warn France’s encryption and VPN laws threaten privacy
Privacy-focused email provider Tuta (previously Tutanota) and the VPN Trust Initiative (VTI) are raising concerns over proposed laws in France set to backdoor encrypted messaging systems and restrict internet access. The first case concerns a proposed amendment to France’s “Narcotrafic” law, which would compel providers of encrypted communication services to implement backdoors, enabling law enforcement to […]
New Auto-Color Linux backdoor targets North American govts, universities
A previously undocumented Linux backdoor dubbed ‘Auto-Color’ was observed in attacks between November and December 2024, targeting universities and government organizations in North America and Asia. According to Palo Alto Networks’ Unit 42 researchers who discovered the malware, it is highly evasive and difficult to remove from infected systems, capable of maintaining access for extended periods. The […]
Chinese cyberspies use new SSH backdoor in network device hacks
A Chinese hacking group is hijacking the SSH daemon on network appliances by injecting malware into the process for persistent access and covert operations. The newly identified attack suite has been used in attacks since mid-November 2024, attributed to the Chinese Evasive Panda, aka DaggerFly, cyber-espionage group. As per the findings of Fortinet’s Fortiguard researchers, the attack […]
Backdoor found in two healthcare patient monitors, linked to IP in China
The US Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency (CISA) is warning that Contec CMS8000 devices, a widely used healthcare patient monitoring device, include a backdoor that quietly sends patient data to a remote IP address and downloads and executes files on the device. Contec is a China-based company that specializes in healthcare technology, offering a range of […]
Stealthy ‘Magic Packet’ malware targets Juniper VPN gateways
A malicious campaign has been specifically targeting Juniper edge devices, many acting as VPN gateways, with malware dubbed J-magic that starts a reverse shell only if it detects a “magic packet” in the network traffic. The J-magic attacks appear to target organizations in the semiconductor, energy, manufacturing (marine, solar panels, heavy machinery), and IT sectors. […]
Malicious PyPi package steals Discord auth tokens from devs
A malicious package named ‘pycord-self’ on the Python package index (PyPI) targets Discord developers to steal authentication tokens and plant a backdoor for remote control over the system. The package mimics the highly popular ‘discord.py-self,’ which has nearly 28 million downloads, and even offers the functionality of the legitimate project. The official package is a Python […]
Over 4,000 backdoors hijacked by registering expired domains
Over 4,000 abandoned but still active web backdoors were hijacked and their communication infrastructure sinkholed after researchers registered expired domains used for commanding them. Some of the live malware (web shells) was deployed on web servers of high-profile targets, including government and university systems, ready to execute commands from anyone who tool control of the communication […]