Hackers target and weaponize AnyDesk, Zoom, Teams, and Chrome as these applications are widely used in a multitude of sectors.
Not only that, but even these widely used applications also provide access to many users and sensitive information.
Cybersecurity researchers at Sekoia identified that FakeBat malware has been actively weaponizing widely used applications, AnyDesk, Zoom, Teams, and Chrome.
FakeBat Malware Loader
In 2024, FakeBat loader malware has become a major threat that uses drive-by-download methods for propagation.
This is sold as Loader-as-a-Service on dark web platforms and masquerades itself through malvertising and social engineering tricks.
Mostly, it is used for launching various payloads such as botnets and infostealers, which have been also associated with ransomware attacks.
The malware’s operators have updated its capabilities to include MSIX format builds and digital signatures to bypass security measures.
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The prices of FakeBat range from $1,000-$5,000 per week or month, depending on the package. Sekoia said that FakeBat deliberately restricts its customer base to maintain control over distribution and reduce the risks of detection.
FakeBat’s distribution has evolved into a sophisticated operation that involves different strategies such as malvertising, software impersonation, and social engineering on social networks.
Another way this malware is distributed is through compromised websites, fake browser updates, and targeted campaigns such as the “getmess.io” web3 chat app scam.
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FakeBat’s infrastructure consists of many C2 servers with changing communication patterns and obfuscation techniques.
The operators use specific domain naming conventions and host their servers on select ASNs.
They have implemented traffic filtering based on user attributes and recently enhanced evasion by anonymizing their domain registrations.
This shows how Fakebat’s conspirators are adaptable while seeking evasion from detection during expansion.
Researchers observed that the following software were targeted by the FakeBat malvertising campaigns:-
- 1Password
- Advanced SystemCare
- AnyDesk
- Bandicam
- Blender
- Braavos
- Cisco Webex
- Epic Games
- Google Chrome
- Inkscape
- Microsoft OneNote
- Microsoft Teams
- Notion
- OBS Studio
- OpenProject
- Play WGT Golf
- Python Shapr3D
- Todoist
- Trading View
- Trello
- VMware
- Webull
- WinRAR
- Zoom
Nowadays, threat actors prefer making use of fake software landing pages to share malware, and this is done through the practice of tracking campaigns.
Other observed sets contain entities like FIN7 and Nitrogen campaigns which circulate different kinds of malicious codes.
FakeBat, a widely distributed loader marketed as Malware-as-a-Service, uses multiple means of distribution and constantly modifies itself to avoid being identified.
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