Category Archives: Malware

Devices Infected With Data-Stealing Malware Up 700% Since 2020

Alarming Rise: Data-Stealing Malware Infections Surge 700% Since 2020

In an age where digital connectivity underpins nearly every aspect of personal and professional life, the alarming surge in devices infected with data-stealing malware presents a critical challenge.

A recent report by Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence paints a concerning picture: the number of devices infected with data-stealing malware has skyrocketed by a staggering 700% since 2020. 

This alarming trend highlights the ever-evolving threat landscape and the urgency for increased cybersecurity vigilance.

This staggering rise not only underscores the growing complexity and aggression of cyber threats but also highlights vulnerabilities in current security measures.

i. What is Data-Stealing Malware?

Data-stealing malware, also known as info-stealers, are malicious programs designed to infiltrate devices and steal sensitive information. This information can include login credentials, credit card details, personal data, and even corporate secrets. Unlike ransomware, which encrypts data and demands a ransom for its release, infostealers operate silently in the background, exfiltrating data without the user’s knowledge.

ii. The Surge in Data-Stealing Malware

Data-stealing malware is a type of malicious software designed to intercept and exfiltrate sensitive information from infected devices. This could include login credentials, financial data, personal identification information, and intellectual property. The 700% increase since 2020 can be attributed to several factors:

A. Increased Remote Work: The COVID-19 pandemic forced many organizations to rapidly shift to remote work, often without adequate cybersecurity measures. This transition created new opportunities for cybercriminals to exploit vulnerabilities in home networks and personal devices.

B. Sophisticated Attack Techniques: Cybercriminals have developed more sophisticated malware that can bypass traditional security measures. Techniques such as phishing, spear-phishing, and the use of ransomware have become more prevalent and effective.

C. Greater Connectivity: The proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices, along with increased reliance on cloud services, has expanded the attack surface for cybercriminals. Each connected device represents a potential entry point for malware.

D. Increased Reliance on Digital Tools: The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the shift towards remote work and online transactions. This creates a larger pool of potential targets for cybercriminals.

E. Exploiting New Technologies: Cybercriminals are quick to adapt and exploit vulnerabilities in emerging technologies like cloud computing and the Internet of Things (IoT).

F. Rise of Ransomware-as-a-Service (RaaS): The growing popularity of RaaS models makes it easier for even less-skilled attackers to launch sophisticated cyberattacks, including deploying data-stealers.

iii. Consequences of Infected Devices

Set of vector isometric illustrations, hacker icons, computer security breach, information confidentiality, bank account hacking

The ramifications of a device being infected with data-stealing malware are severe and wide-ranging. For individuals, it can lead to identity theft, financial loss, and privacy invasions. For businesses, the consequences can be even more dire, including:

o Financial Losses: Victims of data theft often suffer significant financial losses. Personal banking information and credit card details can be exploited, leading to unauthorized transactions and financial fraud.

o Reputational Damage: Loss of customer trust and potential loss of business due to data breaches.

o Identity Theft: Stolen personal information can be used to commit identity theft, resulting in long-term damage to victims’ credit scores and personal reputations.

o Corporate Espionage: For businesses, data-stealing malware can lead to the theft of sensitive corporate information, including trade secrets, intellectual property, and confidential client data. This can result in competitive disadvantages and legal liabilities.

o Legal Consequences: Violations of data protection regulations can result in heavy fines and legal action.

o Operational Disruption: Malware infections can disrupt business operations, leading to downtime, reduced productivity, and increased recovery costs. In some cases, the damage can be so severe that it threatens the survival of the business.

iv. The Scope of the Threat

The Kaspersky report reveals that nearly 10 million devices were compromised by data-stealing malware in 2023 alone. Cybercriminals are estimated to have stolen an average of 50.9 credentials per infected device, highlighting the vast amount of sensitive data at risk. These stolen credentials can be used for a variety of criminal activities, including identity theft, financial fraud, and even corporate espionage.

v. Defensive Measures

In response to the uptick in data-stealing malware, individuals and organizations need to adopt comprehensive cybersecurity strategies:

A. Regular Software Updates: Ensuring all software, including operating systems and applications, are up to date with the latest security patches.

B. Strong Authentication: Implementing multi-factor authentication (MFA) to make it more difficult for unauthorized users to access sensitive information.

C. Employee Training: Educating employees about phishing and other social engineering attacks to reduce the likelihood of successful intrusions.

D. Advanced Security Solutions: Utilizing advanced security solutions such as endpoint protection, intrusion detection systems, and encryption to safeguard data.

E. Regular Backups: Maintaining regular backups of important data to mitigate the impact of a potential ransomware attack.

F. Zero Trust Architecture: Adopting a Zero Trust approach to network security, which assumes that threats could be internal or external, can help protect sensitive data by enforcing strict access controls.

G. Data Encryption: Encrypting sensitive data ensures that even if it is stolen, it cannot be easily accessed or used by cybercriminals.

H. Network Security: Utilizing firewalls, intrusion detection systems, and secure network architectures can help protect against malware infiltration.

vi. Protecting Yourself from Data-Stealing Malware

Flat design concept hacker activity cyber thief on internet device. Vector illustrate.

While the rise in data-stealing malware is concerning, there are steps you can take to protect yourself:

o Install Security Software: Use a reputable antivirus and anti-malware program on all your devices, and keep them updated with the latest security patches.

o Be Wary of Phishing Attempts: Phishing emails and websites are a common way for cybercriminals to distribute malware. Be cautious of suspicious links and attachments.

o Enable Two-Factor Authentication: Two-factor authentication adds an extra layer of security to your online accounts, making it more difficult for attackers to gain access even if they steal your password.

o Practice Strong Password Hygiene: Use unique and strong passwords for all your online accounts, and avoid using the same password for multiple accounts.

o Be Mindful of Downloads: Only download software and applications from trusted sources.

vii. The Road Ahead: A Collective Effort

The 700% increase in devices infected with data-stealing malware since 2020 serves as a stark reminder of the evolving threat landscape. 

Combating the growing threat of data-stealing malware requires a collective effort. Individuals, organizations, and cybersecurity firms need to work together to raise awareness, develop robust defenses, and foster a culture of digital security.

viii. Conclusion 

In conclusion, while the surge in data-stealing malware is concerning, it also provides an opportunity for increased awareness and improvement in cybersecurity practices. By adopting robust defensive measures and staying educated on emerging threats, we can collectively work towards a safer digital future.

ix. Further references 

Devices Infected With Data-Stealing Malware Increased by 7 Times Since 2020

Kasperskywww.kaspersky.comData-stealing malware infections increased sevenfold since 2020, Kaspersky experts …

Guidepost Solutionshttps://guidepostsolutions.com › k…Kaspersky Study: Devices Infected With Data-Stealing Malware Increased by 7 Times …

Kasperskyhttps://usa.kaspersky.com › about53 percent of devices infected with data-stealing malware are corporate, …

The Economic Timeshttps://m.economictimes.com › techmalware attack: Number of devices hit by data …

PurpleSechttps://purplesec.us › resources › c…Cyber Security Statistics The Ultimate List Of Stats Data, & Trends For 2023

FutureCIOhttps://futurecio.tech › data-stealing…Data-stealing malware infected 10 million devices in 2023

ResearchGatehttps://www.researchgate.net › 363…Study of: Impact of Malicious Attacks and Data Breach on the Growth …

LinkedIn · Jason Mashak4 reactions  ·  4 weeks agoJason Mashak on LinkedIn: Devices Infected With Data-Stealing …

CyBOK’s Malware & Attack Technology Knowledge Area

CyBOK’s Malware & Attack Technology Knowledge Area: Decoding the Dark Side

The CyBOK framework is a valuable resource for cybersecurity professionals, and its Malware & Attack Technology Knowledge Area (KA) dives deep into the underbelly of malicious code and attacker tactics. 

i. Malware & Attack Technology Knowledge Area (KA) high level areas

   o Demystify malware: Understand the different types of malware (viruses, worms, Trojans, etc.), their functionalities, and how they infiltrate and harm systems.

   o Unravel attack vectors: Learn how attackers exploit vulnerabilities in various systems, networks, and applications to launch their attacks.

   o Decode tactics and techniques: Decipher the attacker’s playbook, from reconnaissance and exploitation to installation and persistence.

   o Sharpen your detection and analysis skills: Gain insights into identifying malicious activities and analyzing malware samples to understand their intent and capabilities.

ii. This KA isn’t just about technical details; it fosters a deeper understanding of attacker motivations and methodologies

   o Adversarial behaviors: Uncover the psychological and socio-technical aspects of attacker behavior, allowing you to anticipate their moves and design better defenses.

   o Attacker tools and resources: Learn about the tools and resources readily available to attackers, both off-the-shelf and custom-built.

   o Emerging threats: Stay ahead of the curve by understanding the latest trends and innovations in the cybercrime landscape.

CyBOK’s Malware & Attack Technology KA presents a comprehensive and up-to-date picture of the ever-evolving threat landscape. 

Whether you’re a security analyst, incident responder, or security architect, 

iii. The knowledge area skillset focus

   o Strengthen your defenses: Identify potential weaknesses in your systems and networks and implement effective countermeasures.

   o Improve incident response: React swiftly and effectively to cyberattacks, minimizing damage and restoring operations.

   o Stay informed and proactive: Continuously update your knowledge to stay ahead of the latest threats and adapt your security posture accordingly.

iv. Core concepts typically included in the Malware & Attack Technologies Knowledge Area

A. Malware Types: This involves a classification of different types of malicious software, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, spyware, adware, and others. It explores how they differ, how they propagate, and what their main effects are.

B. Malware Functions: The discussion around the functionality of malware, including payloads, backdoors, command and control (C2) mechanisms, and evasion techniques.

C. Malware Analysis: Techniques and methodologies for static and dynamic analysis of malware to understand its purpose, functionality, and potential impact.

D. Attack Technology: This encompasses various technologies and methods used in cyber attacks, like exploiting vulnerabilities, denial of service attacks, man-in-the-middle attacks, and SQL injection.

E. Campaigns: An examination of coordinated attacks launched by groups or individuals, often part of advanced persistent threats (APTs).

F. Attribution: The process and challenges of attributing a malware attack to specific actors or groups.

G. Countermeasures: Strategies and technologies that can be used to defend against malware and attack technologies, including antivirus software, firewalls, intrusion detection/prevention systems, and security information and event management (SIEM) systems.

v. Key aspects that might be addressed

A. Malware Types and Families:

   o Aspect: Identifying and understanding different types of malware, including viruses, worms, trojans, ransomware, etc.

   o Objective: Enables recognition and analysis of malicious software in cybersecurity operations.

B. Attack Vectors and Techniques:

   o Aspect: Exploring methods by which cyber attacks are initiated, such as phishing, social engineering, or exploiting vulnerabilities.

   o Objective: Understanding how attackers gain unauthorized access and compromise systems.

C. Malware Analysis:

   o Aspect: Techniques and methodologies for analyzing malware to understand its behavior and characteristics.

   o Objective: Helps in devising countermeasures and understanding the impact of malware on systems.

D. Exploitation Techniques:

   o Aspect: Studying methods used by attackers to exploit vulnerabilities in software and systems.

   o Objective: Enhances the ability to identify and patch vulnerabilities, reducing the attack surface.

E. Attack Surfaces:

   o Aspect: Identifying and securing potential entry points for cyber attacks in a system or network.

   o Objective: Minimizes the opportunities for attackers to exploit weaknesses.

F. Rootkits and Stealth Techniques:

   o Aspect: Understanding rootkits and stealthy attack techniques that aim to remain undetected.

   o Objective: Enhances detection capabilities and helps in developing countermeasures against stealthy attacks.

G. Payload Delivery Mechanisms:

   o Aspect: Analyzing methods used to deliver malicious payloads, including email attachments, drive-by downloads, etc.

   o Objective: Enables proactive measures to prevent payload delivery.

H. Command and Control (C2) Techniques:

   o Aspect: Understanding how attackers establish and maintain control over compromised systems.

   o Objective: Facilitates the identification and disruption of malicious command and control infrastructure.

I. Evasion Techniques:

   o Aspect: Examining techniques employed by malware and attackers to evade detection and analysis.

   o Objective: Enhances the ability to detect and respond to evasive tactics.

J. Attribution Challenges:

    o Aspect: Exploring the complexities of attributing cyber attacks to specific individuals or groups.

    o Objective: Recognizes the challenges associated with determining the origin of attacks.

K. Anti-Forensic Techniques:

    o Aspect: Understanding methods used by attackers to hinder or obstruct forensic investigations.

    o Objective: Enhances the ability to counteract attempts to cover tracks.

L. Countermeasures and Defense Strategies:

    o Aspect: Implementing strategies and technologies to defend against malware and cyber attacks.

    o Objective: Strengthens the security posture of systems and networks.

The Cybersecurity Body of Knowledge (CyBOK) is an initiative that aims to codify the foundational and generally recognized knowledge of the cybersecurity discipline. 

The Malware & Attack Technologies Knowledge Area within CyBOK covers a variety of topics that are essential to understanding how malicious software operates along with the technologies leveraged in cyber attacks.

CyBOK aimes to be a comprehensive resource for educators, researchers, practitioners, and students. It outlines the key areas of expertise necessary for a rounded understanding of the field of cybersecurity. The Malware & Attack Technologies Knowledge Area is continually updated by contributors to stay relevant with the latest threats and advances in the field.

https://www.cybok.org/media/downloads/Malware_Attack_Technologies_v1.0.1.pdf

https://research-repository.griffith.edu.au/bitstream/handle/10072/392580/Martin351375-Accepted.pdf?sequence=2

https://www.qa.com/about-qa/our-thinking/cybok-video-attack-and-defences/