Cybersecurity researchers at Proofpoint recently uncovered a sophisticated social engineering technique employed by hackers to run PowerShell and install malware. This method leverages psychological manipulation to trick users into performing harmful actions, such as surrendering their credentials or executing malicious scripts. The attackers have been using this strategy to exploit security loopholes, resulting in widespread malware infections.
New Social Engineering Technique
Threat actors like TA571 and a malicious activity cluster, ClearFake, have been deceiving users into copying and pasting dangerous PowerShell scripts, thereby compromising their systems. Through methods such as malspam and browser injects, the attackers present users with fake error messages, prompting them to run scripts that ultimately download malware payloads, including DarkGate, Matanbuchus, and NetSupport. Read more.
Since March 2024, TA571 has been utilizing this technique, while ClearFake initiated similar campaigns in early April, continuing until June. The deceptive tactics include obfuscated scripts executed in multiple stages, which eventually install various malware families like Lumma Stealer and Amadey Loader. Technologies like EtherHiding and ZIP executable bundling further complicate detection efforts, making it challenging for security systems to identify and neutralize the threats.
Campaigns and Techniques
Researchers have identified the browser update overlay, nicknamed “ClickFix,” as a significant element in these attacks. This deceptive overlay appears on compromised websites, tricking users into consenting to run malicious PowerShell scripts. These scripts initially distributed Vidar Stealer, but by mid-May, the campaign evolved into what is now known as ClearFake. TA571’s campaigns also include HTML lures with fake error messages that prompt victims to paste and execute malicious scripts, resulting in infections from malware like Matanbuchus and DarkGate.
In the past, similar social engineering tactics have been used by various threat actors to exploit human vulnerabilities and deploy malware. However, the current wave of attacks demonstrates a higher level of sophistication in exploiting user trust through trusted applications and user interactions. This evolution highlights the necessity for continuous advancements in cybersecurity measures and user education to combat these increasingly complex threats.
Comparing this information to earlier reports, it is evident that social engineering remains a prevalent and effective method for cybercriminals. Previous incidents also focused on exploiting psychological aspects to deceive users, but the current techniques show an increased use of multi-stage infection chains and advanced obfuscation methods. This trend indicates a growing emphasis on bypassing traditional security controls and leveraging trusted user actions to achieve malicious objectives.
Overall, the ongoing developments in social engineering tactics underscore the importance of enhancing cybersecurity awareness and training. Organizations must prioritize user education to recognize and report such attempts, thereby reducing the risk of successful attacks. Continuous monitoring and updating of security protocols are essential to stay ahead of these evolving threats.
