Security Advisory

Shai-Hulud NPM Supply Chain Attack Expands to 470+ Packages 

Summary: A large-scale malicious campaign, nicknamed the Shai-Hulud attack, has impacted the npm ecosystem with over 500 trojanized packages, including those packages maintained by CrowdStrike. The attack originated from a sophisticated phishing campaign that exploited the fundamental trust relationships within the npm ecosystem. 

The JavaScript ecosystem is under a massive threat following a major supply chain attack. Hence, millions of crypto users and developers are now at risk. With more than a billion of these packages downloaded already, thousands of blockchain wallets and applications could be suffer varying exploits.

  • Malicious NPM updates spread malware that steals and replaces crypto addresses.
  • Developers encouraged developer to cease on-chain operation and inspect HD wallets thoroughly.

The attackers injected malicious scripts that

  • Run secret-scanning tools on developer systems, 
  • Steal GitHub, npm and cloud credentials, 
  • Insert persistent GitHub Actions workflows for long-term access, and 
  • Exfiltrate sensitive data to attacker-controlled endpoints. 

This attack is ongoing and all users of npm packages should take immediate steps to secure tokens, audit their environments and verify package integrity. 

Issue Details 

Initial discovery on September 14, 2025, when suspicious versions of @ctrl/tinycolor and ~40 other packages were flagged. By September 16, the attack had spread to include CrowdStrike-namespaced packages and dozens from @ctrl, @nativescript-community, rxnt, @operato, and others. 

Malware behavior 

  • Downloads and runs TruffleHog, a legitimate secret scanner. 
  • Harvests secrets from local machines and CI/CD agents (npm tokens, GitHub PATs, AWS/GCP cloud keys). 
  • Writes malicious workflows into .github/workflows (shai-hulud-workflow.yml). 
  • Continuously exfiltrates findings to a fixed webhook endpoint or pushes them into new GitHub repos under the victim’s account. 

Attack Flow 

Here are some popular packages with affected versions 

Package Version 
@ctrl/ngx-codemirror 7.0.1, 7.0.2 
@ctrl/tinycolor 4.1.1, 4.1.2 
@crowdstrike/foundry-js 0.19.1, 0.19.2 
@crowdstrike/logscale-dashboard 1.205.1, 1.205.2 
@nativescript-community/sqlite 3.5.2 – 3.5.5 
@nativescript-community/text 1.6.9 – 1.6.13 
@nstudio/nativescript-checkbox 2.0.6 – 2.0.9 
@nstudio/angular 20.0.4 – 20.0.6 
eslint-config-crowdstrike 11.0.2, 11.0.3 
remark-preset-lint-crowdstrike 4.0.1, 4.0.2 

Attack Indicators 

Malicious Workflow Filenames 

  • .github/workflows/shai-hulud-workflow.yml 
  • .github/workflows/shai-hulud.yaml 

Exfiltration Endpoint 

  • hxxps://webhook[.]site/bb8ca5f6-4175-45d2-b042-fc9ebb8170b7 

Hashes of Malicious Payloads 

SHA-256 Hash Notes 
46faab8ab153fae6e80e7cca38eab363075bb524edd79e42269217a083628f09 Large batch, Sept 15–16 
b74caeaa75e077c99f7d44f46daaf9796a3be43ecf24f2a1fd381844669da777 CrowdStrike-related packages burst (Sept 16) 
de0e25a3e6c1e1e5998b306b7141b3dc4c0088da9d7bb47c1c00c91e6e4f85d6 First observed compromise (Sept 14) 
81d2a004a1bca6ef87a1caf7d0e0b355ad1764238e40ff6d1b1cb77ad4f595c3 Sept 14 small burst 
83a650ce44b2a9854802a7fb4c202877815274c129af49e6c2d1d5d5d55c501e ~25 packages, Sept 14 
4b2399646573bb737c4969563303d8ee2e9ddbd1b271f1ca9e35ea78062538db Burst of ~17 packages, Sept 14–15 
dc67467a39b70d1cd4c1f7f7a459b35058163592f4a9e8fb4dffcbba98ef210c Multiple reuse across Sept 15–16 

Recommendations

Organizations and developers using npm should take immediate actions: 

  1. Uninstall or downgrade 
    Pin dependencies to known-safe versions until patched releases are confirmed. 
  1. Rotate credentials 
    Immediately revoke and reissue: 
  • npm access tokens 
  • GitHub personal access tokens / org tokens 
  • Cloud credentials (AWS, GCP, Azure) 
  1. Audit systems 
  • Inspect developer machines and CI/CD build agents for signs of the malicious bundle.js. 
  • Check .github/workflows for unauthorized files named “shai-hulud-*”. 
  • Review repositories for suspicious commits or new repos labeled “Shai-Hulud Migration”. 
  1. Monitor and log 
  • Search event logs for unusual npm publish activity. 
  • Investigate GitHub Actions runs designed to exfiltrate secrets. 
  1. Harden pipelines 
  • Pin package versions and use integrity checks (e.g.- lockfiles, checksums). 
  • Limit exposure of sensitive tokens in build environments. 
  • Rotate all build-related secrets regularly. 

 
Conclusion 
This incident is significant compromises in the npm ecosystem, impacting hundreds of widely used packages across various namespaces.

The attackers’ tactics such as credential theft, manipulation of GitHub workflows, and widespread package propagation, highlighting the growing sophistication of modern supply chain attacks.

Developers and organizations are strongly advised to take immediate action by removing affected package versions, rotating any exposed secrets, auditing their build environments and strengthening CI/CD security. Continuous monitoring and rapid response are essential to reducing risk and maintaining trust in open-source software. 

The attack’s browser API-level operation revealed critical blind spots in enterprise security monitoring, particularly for organizations handling cryptocurrency transactions.

References

Spring Security & Framework Authorization Bypass Vulnerabilities Patched 

Security advisory: Two new security vulnerabilities have been discovered in the Spring Framework and Spring Security components identified as CVE-2025-41248 and CVE-2025-41249.

Severity Medium 
CVSS Score 4.4 
CVEs CVE-2025-41248, CVE-2025-41249 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

These issues affect applications that use method-level security annotations like @PreAuthorize to control access to certain methods or features. Under specific conditions when generics are used in parent classes or interfaces, these annotations may not be properly detected, which could allow unauthorized users to access restricted functionality. 

                Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity Fixed Version 
Spring Security Authorization Bypass Vulnerability  CVE-2025-41248 Spring Security  Medium 6.5.4 (Open Source) 6.4.10 (Open Source)  
Spring Framework Annotation Detection Vulnerability CVE-2025-41249 Spring Framework Medium 6.2.11 (Open Source) 6.1.23 (Commercial Support) 5.3.45 (Commercial Support)  

Technical Summary 

The vulnerability arises when Spring applications use inheritance (where a class inherits methods from another class) and generics (a way to define methods or classes that can handle different types of data) together. If a secured method, like one marked with the @PreAuthorize annotation (used to enforce security checks), is declared in a generic superclass or interface without clear type definitions, Spring might fail to recognize the security annotation at runtime. This means unauthorized users could potentially access these methods. This issue affects Spring Security versions 6.4.0 to 6.5.3 and Spring Framework versions 5.3.0 to 6.2.10. The Spring team has since released updates to better handle security annotations in such cases, ensuring proper authorization checks. 

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2025-41248 Spring Security 6.4.0 – 6.4.9 6.5.0 – 6.5.3 Spring Security may fail to detect method-level security annotations applied to generic superclasses or interfaces, resulting in unauthorized access. Unauthorized access  
CVE-2025-41249 Spring Framework 6.2.0 – 6.2.10 6.1.0 – 6.1.22 5.3.0 – 5.3.44 Older, unsupported versions are also affected.  Spring Framework does not consistently recognize security annotations on methods declared in generic superclasses or interfaces, which can lead to authorization bypass. Authorization bypass. 

Remediation

Users should immediately update to the latest patched versions of Spring Security and Spring Framework: 

Spring Security 
Affected Version Fix Version 
6.5.x 6.5.4 
6.4.x 6.4.10 
Spring Framework 
Affected Version Fix Version 
6.2.x 6.2.11 
6.1.x 6.1.23 
6.0.x N/A (OOS) 
5.3.x 5.3.45 

Conclusion: 
These vulnerabilities cause Spring Security and Spring Framework to sometimes miss detecting method-level security annotations in generic type hierarchies. This can allow unauthorized users to bypass authorization checks, exposing protected functionality. While the severity is medium, it is important to update to the fixed versions promptly and review security annotation usage on generics to maintain proper access control. 

References

 

VoidProxy PhaaS Uses MFA Bypass, Hijacking Google & Microsoft Logins

Security Advisory

Security researchers from Okta have uncovered a stealthy and sophisticated Phishing-as-a-Service (PhaaS) framework known as VoidProxy.

This has been used to hijack Microsoft, Google and even integrated SSO accounts protected by providers like Okta. Unlike traditional phishing kits, VoidProxy employs Adversary-in-the-Middle (AiTM) tactics to capture real-time credentials, MFA tokens and bypassing several standard authentication protections.

VoidProxy’s infrastructure leverages disposable domains, Cloudflare protections, dynamic DNS which all of mimicking as legitimate enterprise setups becoming extremely difficult to detect, analyze. The attackers are running phishing campaigns with little technical effort, enabling wide-scale compromises that lead to email compromise, fraud and data breaches.

Its attack chain is built to evade modern email security, identity defenses, and analysis tools by leveraging the following:

  • CAPTCHA Filtering: Victims are first shown a CAPTCHA challenge before any phishing content loads. This helps block bots and automated security scanners.
  • Cloudflare Workers: Used to deliver customized phishing pages and smartly direct traffic to the attacker’s backend servers.
  • URL Redirection Chains: The phishing links in emails go through several redirects (often using shortened URLs) before landing on fake login pages. This helps bypass spam filters and security tools.
  • Dynamic DNS: These services let attackers quickly create domain names that point to specific IP addresses, making their infrastructure flexible and harder to track.    

Once a user enters their credentials and MFA tokens, the session is hijacked via a reverse proxy server, allowing the attacker to immediately access the legitimate account.

Here are some shortened url links

Attack Flow

StepDescription
1. DeliveryPhishing emails are sent from compromised accounts on email delivery services (like Postmarkapp or Constant Contact) increasing trust and shortening URL services for bypassing spam filters.
2. Redirecting & FilterClicking the phishing link redirects victims through several short URLs and presents a Cloudflare captcha to ensure human interaction.
3. PhishingVictims land on a fake Microsoft or Google login page using realistic subdomain patterns like “login.<phishing_domain>.<.com/.io>”. Additionally, integrated SSO accounts are redirected to additional fake SSO pages mimicking the login flows.
4. AiTM Session HijackThe backend proxy captures credentials, MFA tokens and session cookies, allowing attackers full account access.
5. ExfiltrationSession cookies and credentials are routed to the attacker’s admin panel in real-time. Integration with bots or webhooks enables instant alerts to the attackers.

Why It’s Effective

AiTM Infrastructure: Unlike static phishing kits, VoidProxy runs a live proxy in the middle of the authentication flow, stealing session tokens or mfa token immediately after login.

CAPTCHA & Cloudflare Layers: These challenges ensure only real human victims reach the phishing payload, filtering out scanners and sandboxes.

Integrated SSO Targeting: Accounts using Okta or other SSO providers are redirected to accurate second-stage phishing pages, increasing the likelihood of a full compromise.

Recommendations:

Here are some recommendations below

  • Harden the authentication by bind sessions to IP addresses (IP Session Binding) to block cookie replay attacks.
  • Block access from rarely used IP ranges or unmanaged devices.
  • Provide user awareness training to help recognize phishing links, suspicious email senders and fake login prompts.
  • Keep monitoring for any indications of suspicious activities.

Conclusion
VoidProxy’s layered architecture, real-time session hijacking and deep evasion mechanisms make it a potential threat even for environments with multi-factor authentication in place. We require a shift from traditional phishing detection toward real-time risk-based access controls, strong authenticators and persistent user education.

References:

Angular SSR Vulnerability Allows Cross-Request Data Exposure (CVE-2025-59052) 

Security Advisory: A high security flaw was discovered in Angular’s server-side rendering (SSR) functionality that could lead to cross-request data leakage due to a global race condition. This is identified as CVE-2025-59052, affects multiple versions of Angular’s @angular/platform-server, @angular/ssr and @nguniversal/common packages.

With data breaches at highest, Organizations using vulnerable Angular versions should update immediately or implement recommended workarounds to avoid potential data breaches.

Severity High 
CVSS Score 7.1 
CVEs CVE-2025-59052 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

Angular is a popular open-source web application framework developed by Google, used to build dynamic, single-page applications (SPAs) and server-rendered apps using HTML, TypeScript and JavaScript.

When multiple SSR requests are processed concurrently, sensitive state information may be inadvertently shared, potentially exposing user tokens or private data across unrelated sessions. The Angular has released patches across all active branches and urges developers to update immediately. 

Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity Fixed Version 
​ Race condition vulnerability  CVE-2025-59052 Angular platform-server, ssr  High  v18.2.14, v19.2.15/16, v20.3.0, v21.0.0-next.3 

Technical Summary 

Angular uses a dependency injection (DI) container called the platform injector during SSR to hold request-specific data. This container was implemented as a global module-scoped variable, introducing a race condition when multiple requests were processed simultaneously.

This flaw could cause data meant for one user to be sent in the response to another, potentially leaking authentication tokens, headers, or private content.

Affected APIs include bootstrapApplicationgetPlatform, destroyPlatform. These changes introduce SSR-only breaking changes, with automatic migration schematics available through the Angular CLI update process. 

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2025-59052 Angular SSR v16 to v21 Race condition in global DI container during SSR could leak user data across requests Cross-Request Data Leakage 

Recommendations

Upgrade Angular packages to the latest patched versions: 

Package Affected Versions Fixed Versions 
@angular/platform-server >=16.0.0-next.0 <18.2.14 
>=19.0.0-next.0 <19.2.15 
>=20.0.0-next.0 <20.3.0 
>=21.0.0-next.0 <21.0.0-next.3 
18.2.14 
19.2.15 
20.3.0 
21.0.0-next.3 
@angular/ssr >=17.0.0-next.0 <18.2.21 
>=19.0.0-next.0 <19.2.16 
>=20.0.0-next.0 <20.3.0 
>=21.0.0-next.0 <21.0.0-next.3 
18.2.21 
19.2.16 
20.3.0 
21.0.0-next.3 

If Immediate Upgrade is Not Possible, you can follow the recommendations below 

  • Disable SSR via server routes or build configurations 
  • Remove asynchronous behavior from custom bootstrap functions 
  • Eliminate use of getPlatform() in server-side code 
  • Ensure ngJitMode is set to false in production builds 

Conclusion: 
The Angular SSR vulnerability CVE-2025-59052 is the high severity issue with global state management during concurrent request processing, resulting in potential cross-request data exposure.

Though not yet exploited in the wild, the risk is significant for SSR-enabled Angular apps. Developers are urged to apply updates promptly or follow the provided mitigation steps to secure their applications. 

As per reports this vulnerability requires no special privileges or user interaction, making it both easy to exploit and dangerous in high-traffic applications.

References

Hashtags 

#Infosec #CyberSecurity #Angular #SecurityAdvisory #WebSecurity #Vulnerabilitymanagement #DevSecOps #PatchManagement #CISO #CXO #Intrucept 

Microsoft Patch Tuesday has 86 Fixes, 2-0Day Vulnerabilities

September 2025 Patch Tuesday update, addressing 86 security issues in products like Microsoft Windows, Microsoft Office etc.

This includes two publicly known zero-day bugs in the Windows SMB Server and another in Newtonsoft.Json. Here are the CVE addressed for Microsoft & non-Microsoft.

Organizations are strongly encouraged to prioritize patching of systems tied to network services, virtualization and productivity tools to mitigate risks of exploitation. 

OEM Microsoft 
Severity Critical 
Date of Announcement 2025-09-09 
No. of Patches 86 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

Here are the CVE addressed for Microsoft & non-Microsoft 

  • 81 Microsoft CVEs addressed 
  • 5 non-Microsoft CVEs addressed 

Breakdown of September 2025 Vulnerabilities 

  • 41 Elevation of Privilege (EoP) 
  • 22 Remote Code Execution (RCE) 
  • 16 Information Disclosure 
  • 4 Denial of Service (DoS) 
  • 2 Security Feature Bypass 
  • 1 Spoofing  
Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity CVSS Score 
Windows SMB Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability  CVE-2025-55234 Windows Server, Windows 10, 11  High 8.8 
Improper Handling of Exceptional Conditions in Newtonsoft.Json CVE-2024-21907 Microsoft SQL Server High 7.5 

Technical Summary 

September 2025 Patch Tuesday includes security updates addressing denial-of-service and privilege escalation vulnerabilities in commonly used libraries and services.

One of the publicly disclosed zero-day CVE-2024-21907 affects the popular .NET library Newtonsoft.Json, where deserialization of crafted JSON can lead to application crashes.

Additionally, CVE-2025-55234 highlights a potential for relay attacks in SMB Server configurations that lack hardening measures such as signing and Extended Protection for Authentication (EPA). Microsoft advises assessing current SMB deployments using new audit capabilities introduced in this month’s updates. 

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
 CVE-2025-55234 Microsoft SMB Server Lack of hardening (signing & EPA) in SMB Server can allow attackers to perform relay attacks, potentially resulting in elevation of privilege. Privilege Escalation 
CVE-2024-21907 Newtonsoft.Json < 13.0.1 Improper handling of crafted input to JsonConvert.DeserializeObject may trigger a StackOverflowException, leading to a denial-of-service condition. Denial of Service 

Source: Microsoft and NVD 

In addition to the publicly disclosed zero day vulnerability, several other Critical & High severity issues were addressed 

  • CVE202555232: Microsoft High Performance Compute Pack (HPC), deserialization of untrusted data vulnerability enabling unauthorized remote code execution over a network interface. 
  • CVE202554918: Windows NTLM, improper authentication vulnerability that enables elevation of privilege over a network, with potential for lateral movement across enterprise systems. 
  • CVE202554110: Windows Kernel, integer overflow vulnerability allowing local privilege escalation through exploitation of kernel memory operations. 
  • CVE202554098: Windows Hyper-V, improper access control flaw permitting local privilege escalation from guest to host in virtualized environments. 
  • CVE202554916: Windows NTFS, stack-based buffer overflow vulnerability enabling local attackers to execute arbitrary code with elevated privileges. 

Key Affected Products and Services 

The September 2025 security updates address critical and important vulnerabilities across a broad range of Microsoft products and services: 

  • Windows Core and Security Components 

Includes updates for Windows Kernel, NTFS, TCP/IP, Defender Firewall, LSASS, BitLocker, NTLM, Win32K, and RRAS (Routing and Remote Access Service), with several vulnerabilities rated CVSS 8.8 or higher. 

  • Microsoft Office Suite 

Patches released for Excel, Word, PowerPoint, Visio, and SharePoint addressing RCE and information disclosure issues, especially through Preview Pane vectors. 

  • Azure and Cloud Services 

Fixes affect Azure Virtual Machine Agent, Azure Arc, and High-Performance Compute Pack (HPC). 

  • Virtualization and Hyper-V 

Multiple vulnerabilities in Hyper‑V and Virtual Hard Drive components, including privilege escalation and denial-of-service risks. 

  • Developer and Management Tools 

Patches applied to PowerShell, AutoZone, Windows Management Services and Capability Access Management, addressing local privilege escalation. 

  • Communication & File Services 

Updates cover SMB, SMBv3, MSMQ and Connected Devices Platform, with critical RCE and lateral movement vectors in enterprise environments. 

  • Browsers and Web Technologies 

Microsoft Edge (Chromium-based) updates, along with republished Chrome CVEs for continued coverage of known browser threats. 

Remediation: 

Apply Patches Promptly: Install the September 2025 security updates immediately to mitigate risks. 

Conclusion: 
Microsoft’s September 2025 Patch Tuesday addresses 86 vulnerabilities, including several critical and high rated issues across Windows, Office, Hyper-V and Azure components etc.

Notably, multiple flaws affect Windows Routing and Remote Access Service (RRAS), SQL Server, and Microsoft High Performance Compute Pack (HPC), with potential for remote code execution (RCE) and privilege escalation.

Microsoft fixed an elevation of privileges flaw in SMB Server that is exploited through relay attacks.

“SMB Server might be susceptible to relay attacks depending on the configuration. An attacker who successfully exploited these vulnerabilities could perform relay attacks and make the users subject to elevation of privilege attacks,” explains Microsoft.

References

Vulnerability in Spring Cloud Gateway Server WebFlux Discovered; Target of Ease by Attackers

Security Advisory: CVE-2025-41243, A critical vulnerability has been disclosed in Spring Cloud Gateway Server WebFlux. This vulnerability allows attackers to modify sensitive Spring Environment properties under specific configurations.

Severity Critical 
CVSS Score 10.0 
CVEs CVE-2025-41243 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

The vulnerability has been assigned the maximum CVSS score of 10.0. It arises when actuator endpoints are exposed without proper security controls, potentially allowing attackers to compromise application behavior. Organizations and users of affected versions are strongly urged to upgrade to the fixed releases. 

Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity Fixed Version 
Spring Expression Language Property Modification  CVE-2025-41243  Spring Cloud Gateway WebFlux  Critical   v4.3.1,  
v4.2.5, v4.1.11, v3.1.11  

Technical Summary 

CVE-2025-41243 is a critical vulnerability occurs when the Spring Boot actuator is included as a dependency and the gateway actuator endpoint is explicitly exposed via the “management.endpoints.web.exposure.include=gateway” configuration.

In such cases, if actuator endpoints are unsecured or exposed to public networks, an attacker could exploit them to modify Spring Environment properties at runtime. This could cause unauthorized access, configuration tampering, and potential application compromise. 

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2025-41243    4.3.0 – 4.3.x 4.2.0 – 4.2.x 4.1.0 – 4.1.x 4.0.0 – 4.0.x 3.1.0 – 3.1.x Older, unsupported versions   Improperly secured actuator endpoints in Spring Cloud Gateway WebFlux allow unauthorized modification of Spring Environment properties. Unauthorized access potential privilege escalation 

Remediation – 

Upgrade Immediately patch to fixed versions: 

Affected Version Range Upgrade To 
4.3.x 4.3.1 
4.2.x 4.2.5 
4.1.x and 4.0.x 4.1.11 
3.1.x 3.1.11 
Unsupported versions Migrate to a supported release 

If you are unable to upgrade right now, here are the recommendations below 

  • Remove gateway from the “management.endpoints.web.exposure.include” property or secure the actuator endpoints. 
  • Secure actuator endpoints with proper authentication and access controls. 
  • Regularly audit and harden application configuration files. 
  • Monitor application and network logs for suspicious activity or unauthorized access attempts. 
  • Implement firewall rules or reverse proxies to restrict access to sensitive endpoints. 
  • Ensure all systems follow patch management and update policies. 

Conclusion 
CVE-2025-41243 is a critical vulnerability affecting Spring Cloud Gateway WebFlux, allowing remote attackers to modify environment properties when actuator endpoints are misconfigured and exposed.

While no active exploitation has been observed in the wild, vulnerability poses a high risk to application integrity and security due to its CVSS score of 10.0 and ease of exploitation in exposed systems.

Organizations are strongly advised to upgrade to the fixed versions, secure actuator endpoints, and follow best practices to reduce attack surface and prevent future exploitation. 

References 

Critical WhatsApp Zero-Day Vulnerability Allows Remote Code Execution  

Summary 

OEM WhatsApp 
Severity Medium 
CVSS Score 5.4 
CVEs CVE-2025-55177 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

A security vulnerability recently discovered in WhatsApp’s linked device feature that allows users to access WhatsApp across multiple devices, such as phones and computers.

CISA has added this flaw to its Known Exploited Vulnerabilities (KEV) Catalog, highlighting its significance. The flaw allows attackers to send crafted messages that forced WhatsApp to load malicious content from a rogue website without any user interaction. WhatsApp and Apple already patched the issue and users are urged to update their apps immediately to stay protected.

                Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity Fixed Version 
WhatsApp Incorrect Authorization Vulnerability  CVE-2025-55177 WhatsApp  Medium 2.25.21.73 and later. 
 
WB iOS 2.25.21.78 and later.  
WhatsApp Desktop for Mac 2.25.21.78 and later. 

Technical Summary 

The vulnerability was due to incomplete authorization of synchronization messages in WhatsApp’s linked device feature. This flaw allowed an attacker to send crafted sync messages that could trick WhatsApp into processing content from an arbitrary URL, even if the message came from an untrusted source.

This could result in WhatsApp loading and executing malicious content on the target device without any user interaction. The impact of the attack was significantly increased when combined with a separate Apple OS vulnerability (CVE-2025-43300), making it suitable for sophisticated, targeted exploitation.

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2025-55177 WhatsApp for iOS (v2.22.25.2 to v2.25.21.72) 
 WhatsApp Business for iOS (v2.22.25.2 to v2.25.21.77) 
 WhatsApp Desktop for Mac (v2.22.25.2 to v2.25.21.77
Incomplete authorization in the linked device sync feature allowed attackers to send crafted sync messages that caused WhatsApp to load content from an arbitrary URL without user interaction. This could be used to execute malicious code on the device. Remote code execution,.  Potential full device compromise.  

Remediation

Update the WhatsApp in iOS and mac devices to the latest version 

  • WhatsApp for iOS: Update to v2.25.21.73 or latest version 
  • WhatsApp Business for iOS: Update to v2.25.21.78 or latest version  
  • WhatsApp Desktop for Mac: Update to v2.25.21.78 or latest version 

Conclusion: 
The WhatsApp vulnerability highlights the growing risks of zero-click attacks, where devices can be compromised without any user interaction. This flaw has been exploited in targeted attacks and poses a serious threat to user security and privacy. It is important for all users to keep their apps and operating systems up to date and follow trusted security recommendations

References

Chrome Update Released, Fixes RCE & Multiple Vulnerabilities

Summary 

OEM Google Chrome 
Severity High 
CVSS Score 8.8 
CVEs CVE-2025-9864, CVE-2025-9865, CVE-2025-9866, CVE-2025-9867 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

Several security vulnerabilities were recently identified in Chromium-based browsers, affecting components such as the V8 JavaScript engine, Toolbar, Extensions and Downloads. The high severity vulnerability, use-after-free issue, could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code.

Additional medium-severity bugs were found in the Toolbar, Extensions, and Downloads components. The Chrome team has started rolling out Chrome 140 to the stable channel, and users are urged to update their browsers to stay protected. 

Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity Fixed Version 
​Use-after-free vulnerability in V8  CVE-2025-9864 Chrome  High  v140.0.7339.80/81 
​Inappropriate implementation vulnerability in Toolbar  CVE-2025-9865 Chrome  Medium  v140.0.7339.80/81 
Inappropriate implementation vulnerability in Extensions  CVE-2025-9866 Chrome  Medium  v140.0.7339.80/81 
Inappropriate implementation vulnerability in Downloads  CVE-2025-9867 Chrome  Medium  v140.0.7339.80/81 

Technical Summary 

Multiple vulnerabilities were addressed in Google Chrome prior to version 140.0.7339.80. The most critical, CVE-2025-9864, is a use-after-free issue in the V8 JavaScript engine that allowed a remote attacker to potentially exploit heap corruption via a crafted HTML page.

Other medium-severity issues include a Toolbar vulnerability on Android that could be exploited via specific user gestures to spoof domains, a security gap in Extensions allowing attackers to bypass content security policies, and a Downloads flaw on Android that enabled UI spoofing through manipulated web pages.

These could allow attackers to misuse Chrome’s features or gain higher system privileges.  

CVE ID System Affected  Vulnerability Details Impact 
 CVE-2025-9864  Chrome v139 and prior Use-after-free in V8 engine could allow attackers to execute arbitrary code via malicious webpage  Remote Code Execution 
 CVE-2025-9865  Chrome v139 and prior Improper handling Chrome’s Toolbar component could allow attackers misuse browser functions or gain privilege access  Domain Spoofing / UI Spoofing
 CVE-2025-9866  Chrome v139 and prior Inappropriate implementation in Chrome’s Extensions system, could allow attackers misuse or bypass content security policy  Content Security Policy Bypass
 CVE-2025-9867  Chrome v139 and prior Improper validation in Chrome’s Downloads could allow attackers to perform UI spoofing via crafted HTML   UI Spoofing 

Remediation

References

  • https://gbhackers.com/chrome-140-release/

Fake Govt & Banking Apps Spreading Android Droppers Evolved as Malware

Security Advisory:  

Cybersecurity researchers have discovered a major shift in how Android malware is being delivered. Dropper apps, which were earlier used mainly to distribute banking trojans.

The Malware’s being used to deliver simpler threats like SMS stealers and basic spyware as official government or banking apps, primarily targeting users in India, Southeast Asia, and some parts of Europe. 

ThreatFabric researchers warn of a shift in Android malware: dropper apps now deliver not just banking trojans, but also SMS stealers and spyware, mainly in Asia.

Vulnerability Details 

The recent surge in Android dropper apps introduces a critical security vulnerability affecting mobile users globally. These droppers are impersonating as banking apps, government services, or trading platforms,, bypass Google Play

Pilot Program by initially requesting minimal permissions to avoid detection, making them appear as legitimate applications.

Once installed, they fetch malicious payloads like spyware, SMS stealers, cryptocurrency miners, and banking trojans from remote servers. Attackers also exploit malvertising campaigns on social media to spread fake apps widely. This evolving tactic enables cybercriminals to switch payloads dynamically, making traditional security measures less effective and increasing the risk of data theft and device compromise. 

Source: cybersecuritynews 

Attack Flow 

Step Description 
1. Craft Attackers create malicious dropper apps disguised as government schemes, banking apps, or trading tools. These apps are designed to look harmless and request only minimal permissions initially. 
2. Send The droppers are distributed through third-party APK sites, malicious ads (e.g., Facebook), or fake update prompts, bypassing initial detection. 
3. Trigger The victim downloads and installs the dropper app, often believing it’s legitimate due to its official-looking design and branding. 
4. Execution When the user clicks “Update” or interacts with the app, the dropper fetches the real malicious payload (spyware, SMS stealer, or banking trojan) from a remote server. 
5. Exploit The installed malware requests high-risk permissions, such as SMS access or notification access, allowing attackers to steal data, track activities, or control the device remotely. 

Proof-of-Concept 

Once the user interacts, the dropper initiates an HTTPS request to a remote server 

Source: cybersecurity news 

Why It’s Effective 

Dynamic Payload Delivery – Attackers hide the real malicious file inside a harmless-looking dropper app. The payload is only downloaded after user interaction, making it harder to detect. 

Permission Evasion – Droppers initially request minimal or safe permissions and only ask for high-risk permissions (like SMS or accessibility access) after installation, bypassing Google Play Protest’sProtects initial scans. 

Fake Update Screens – Many droppers display legitimate looking “Update Required” prompts to trick users into downloading malware, increasing their success rate. 

Recommendations: 

Download Apps Safely  

  • Install apps only from trusted sources like Google Play Store, Apple store etc. 
  • Avoid third-party APKs, unknown links, or apps promoted through social media ads. 

Check Permissions Carefully  

  • Do not grant unnecessary permissions like SMS, notifications, or accessibility dependent on the app services. 
  • Always review requested permissions before installing or updating an app. 

Keep Devices Secure  

  • Enable Google Play Protect and keep your Android security patches up to date. 
  • Use a reliable mobile security solution for real-time malware detection. 

Stay Alert and Aware  

  • Be aware of fake update prompts; apps, and malicious sites. 
  • Stay updated on the latest tactics used by Android malware 

Conclusion: 

  • Android droppers are evolving fast, making them more flexible and harder to detect, increasing risks for both individuals and organizations.
  • Droppers started as tools for advanced banking malware, but now they’re used to install all kinds of harmful apps and sneak past local security.  
  • It is always recommended to stay vigilant, keep your phone and software updated from the original source  and avoid unverified apps installation to minimize the risk of infection. 

References

MediaTek Patches Critical Modem Vulnerabilities  

Security Advisory: MediaTek disclosed critical vulnerabilities along with remediation for its modem and system components. Since the vulnerabilities affected thousands of devices, amounting to both multiple high- and medium vulnerabilities that affected, 60 chipsets used in smartphones, routers and IoT devices.

OEM MediaTek 
Severity High 
CVSS Score 8.3 (NOA) 
CVEs CVE-2025-20708, CVE-2025-20703, CVE-2025-20704, CVE-2025-20705, CVE-2025-20706, CVE-2025-20707 
POC Available No 
Actively Exploited No 
Exploited in Wild No 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

MediaTek issued a critical security update in September 2025 and key issues include modem-related flaws such as remote code execution, denial of service via rogue base stations and local privilege escalation.

Other vulnerabilities include WLAN buffer overflows, bootloader logic flaws and keymaster information leaks impacting Android devices and OpenWRT/Yocto platforms. There has been no active exploitation noticed and MediaTek began distributing patches to OEMs from July 2025 and urges immediate firmware updates to mitigate the issues. 

                Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity 
​Out-of-bounds write in Modem  CVE-2025-20708 Affected chipsets – 60 chipsets 
Modem NR15,16,17,17R software versions. 
 High 
Out-of-bounds read in Modem CVE-2025-20703 Affected chipsets – 57 chipsets 
Modem NR15,16,17,17R software versions. 
High 
Out-of-bounds write in Modem CVE-2025-20704 Affected chipsets – 14 chipsets 
Modem NR17,17R software versions. 
High 
Use after free in monitor_hang CVE-2025-20705 Affected chipsets – 39 chipsets 
Android 13 – 16,   openWRT 19.07, 21.02 / Yocto 2.6 software versions. 
Medium 
Use after free in mbrain CVE-2025-20706 Affected chipsets – 5 chipsets 
Android 14 – 15 software versions. 
Medium 
Use after free in geniezone CVE-2025-20707 Affected chipsets – 60 chipsets 
Android 13 – 15 software versions. 
Medium 

Technical Summary 

These vulnerabilities primarily include out-of-bounds read and write errors (CWE-125, CWE-787) and use-after-free issues (CWE-416), resulting from improper bounds checking and memory management flaws. 

An attacker controlling a rogue base station can exploit these flaws remotely without requiring user interaction, potentially causing remote denial of service, unauthorized privilege escalation, or local privilege escalation if system privileges are already obtained. The exploitation of these vulnerabilities could compromise device stability, security and confidentiality by corrupting memory or executing arbitrary code. Affected devices use modem firmware versions NR15 through NR17R, and a wide spectrum of chipsets, highlighting the broad attack surface. 

CVE ID Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2025-20708 An out-of-bounds write flaw exists in the Modem due to incorrect bounds checking. This vulnerability allows remote escalation of privilege when a UE connects to a rogue base station, without requiring additional execution privileges or user interaction. Unauthorized access, data interception, disruption of cellular services 
CVE-2025-20703 The Modem is affected by an out-of-bounds read issue caused by improper bounds validation. This can result in remote denial of service if connected to a malicious base station, and exploitation requires no user interaction or extra privileges. Denial of Service (DoS), modem or device crash, freeze, unresponsiveness 
CVE-2025-20704 Due to a missing bounds check, the Modem is vulnerable to an out-of-bounds write. Exploiting this flaw can lead to remote escalation of privilege when connected to a rogue base station, though user interaction is necessary. Remote privilege escalation, unauthorized elevated access 
CVE-2025-20705 A use-after-free condition in the monitor_hang module can cause memory corruption, potentially leading to local escalation of privilege if the attacker already has System-level access. Exploitation does not require user interaction. Local privilege escalation, memory corruption 
CVE-2025-20706 The mbrain component suffers from a use-after-free vulnerability that can result in memory corruption. This may allow local privilege escalation for an attacker with System privileges, without needing user interaction. Local privilege escalation, memory corruption 
CVE-2025-20707 In the geniezone module, a use-after-free vulnerability can cause memory corruption and permit local privilege escalation if the attacker has System privileges, with no user interaction needed. Local privilege escalation, memory corruption 

Recommendations

Here are some recommendations below 

  • Once OEM updates are available, make sure to update your device promptly to apply the latest security patches addressing these vulnerabilities. 
  • Avoid connecting to unknown networks to reduce the risk of remote exploitation. 
  • Keep your device’s operating system and apps updated to the latest version. 

Conclusion: 
MediaTek’s recent security update addresses critical vulnerabilities, especially in modem firmware, that could allow remote attacks without user interaction. Although no active exploits have been found, the severity and scope of these flaws make it vital for manufacturers and users to promptly apply patches to protect devices and data. 

The company reassures end users that proactive notification and remediation precede public disclosure, underscoring MediaTek’s commitment to chipset and product security.

References

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