Malware

Security Advisory

Banshee Stealer: A Growing Threat to macOS Users 

Overview 

Cybersecurity researchers at Check Point Research (CPR) have discovered a sophisticated macOS malware called Banshee Stealer, putting over 100 million macOS users globally at risk. The malware, designed to exfiltrate sensitive user data, demonstrates advanced evasion techniques, posing a significant threat to users and organizations relying on macOS. 

Key Threat Details: 

Malware Capabilities: 

  • Data Theft: Banshee Stealer targets browser credentials, cryptocurrency wallets, and sensitive files, compromising user security. 
  • User Deception: It displays fake system pop-ups to trick users into revealing their macOS passwords, facilitating unauthorized access. 
  • Encryption and Exfiltration: Stolen data is compressed, encrypted, and transmitted to command-and-control (C&C) servers through stealthy channels, making detection challenging. 

C&C decryption     Source: Cybersecurity News 

Evasion Tactics: 

  • Advanced Encryption: The malware utilizes encryption techniques similar to Apple’s XProtect, camouflaging itself to evade detection by traditional antivirus systems. 
  • Stealth Operations: It operates seamlessly within system processes, avoiding scrutiny from debugging tools and remaining undetected for extended periods. 

Distribution Mechanisms: 

  • Phishing Websites: Banshee Stealer impersonates trusted software downloads, including Telegram and Chrome, to deceive users into downloading malicious files. 
  • Fake GitHub Repositories: It distributes DMG files with deceptive reviews and stars to gain user trust, facilitating the spread of the malware. 

Repository releases     source: Cybersecurity News 

Recent Developments: 

  • Expanded Targeting: The latest version of Banshee Stealer has removed geographic restrictions, such as the Russian language check, broadening its target audience globally. 
  • Source Code Leak: Following a source code leak, there has been increased activity, enabling other threat actors to develop variants and intensify the threat landscape. 

Impact: 

  • Users: Compromised browser data, cryptocurrency wallets, and personal files can lead to identity theft and financial losses. 
  • Organizations: Potential data breaches can result in reputational damage, financial losses, and legal implications. 
  • Global Threat: The malware’s expanded targeting underscores the need for enhanced vigilance among macOS users worldwide. 

Indicators of Compromise (IOCs): 

The IOCs listed below are associated with the threat. For the full list of IOCs, please refer to the link . 

IP Address and Domain  File Hash 
41.216.183[.]49 00c68fb8bcb44581f15cb4f888b4dec8cd6d528cacb287dc1bdeeb34299b8c93 
Alden[.]io 1dcf3b607d2c9e181643dd6bf1fd85e39d3dc4f95b6992e5a435d0d900333416 
api7[.]cfd 3bcd41e8da4cf68bb38d9ef97789ec069d393306a5d1ea5846f0c4dc0d5beaab 
Authorisev[.]site b978c70331fc81804dea11bf0b334aa324d94a2540a285ba266dd5bbfbcbc114 

Recommendations: 

To mitigate the risks associated with Banshee Stealer, consider implementing the following proactive measures: 

  1. Avoid Untrusted Downloads: 
  • Refrain from downloading software from unverified sources, particularly free or “cracked” versions. 
  • Verify the authenticity of GitHub repositories before downloading any files. 
  1. Strengthening System Defenses: 
  • Regularly update macOS and all installed applications to patch known vulnerabilities. 
  • Deploy advanced security solutions with real-time threat detection and proactive intelligence. 
  1. Enhance Awareness and Training: 
  • Educate users on identifying phishing websites and suspicious downloads. 
  • Encourage caution when responding to system prompts or entering credentials. 
  1. Enable Two-Factor Authentication (2FA): 
  • Secure accounts with 2FA to minimize the impact of stolen credentials. 
  1. Monitor System Activity: 
  • Regularly review system logs for unauthorized changes or suspicious activity. 
  • Use tools to monitor unexpected outgoing data transmissions. 
  • Utilize threat intelligence feeds to detect and block IOCs like malicious IPs, domains, and file hashes.  
  • Continuously monitor network traffic, emails, and file uploads to identify and mitigate threats early. 

Conclusion: 

The rise of the Banshee malware exemplifies the increasing sophistication of threats targeting macOS. Users and organizations must adopt layered security defenses, maintain vigilance, and prioritize awareness to mitigate the risks of advanced malware like Banshee. By leveraging updated tools and practices, you can safeguard critical systems and data from evolving cyber threats. 

References: 

Security Advisory

Critical Windows Privilege Escalation Vulnerability with Public Exploit

Cybersecurity researchers reported a critical Windows privilege escalation vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-43641 affecting Microsoft Windows. This flaw, which affects various editions of Windows Server 2025, Windows 10, and Windows 11, has been assigned a CVSS v3.1 score of 7.8, indicating high severity.

Summary 

OEM Microsoft 
Severity High 
CVSS 7.8 
CVEs CVE-2024-43641 
Exploited in Wild No 
Patch/Remediation Available Yes 
Advisory Version 1.0 

Overview 

A significant Windows Registry Elevation of Privilege vulnerability, identified as CVE-2024-43641, affects multiple editions of Windows. A recently released Proof-of-Concept (PoC) exploit demonstrates how attackers can exploit this flaw to gain elevated privileges. 

Vulnerability Name CVE ID Product Affected Severity 
Windows Registry Elevation of Privilege Vulnerability  CVE-2024-43641  Windows    High 

Technical Summary 

The vulnerability, CVE-2024-43641, exploits a design flaw in Windows registry hive memory management, specifically during a double-fetch process under memory pressure. This flaw allows malicious SMB servers to respond with differing data for consecutive read requests, breaking kernel assumptions and enabling privilege escalation to SYSTEM level. Key technical details are as follows: 

CVE ID System Affected Vulnerability Details Impact 
CVE-2024-43641 Windows 10, Windows 11, Windows Server 2008–2025 The vulnerability involves improper handling of registry hive memory management under memory pressure. A malicious SMB server can respond with differing data to consecutive read requests, breaking kernel assumptions. Exploitation leverages a “False File Immutability” (FFI) condition. Allows attackers to escalate privileges, execute arbitrary code, and compromise system integrity. 

Remediation: 

  • Apply Patches: Users and system administrators are strongly advised to promptly apply the latest security updates. 
  • Monitor Activity: 
  • Monitor logs for suspicious activity related to registry operations. 
  • The cybersecurity community is actively monitoring the situation for any indications of active exploitation in the wild. 

Conclusion: 

CVE-2024-43641 is a high-severity vulnerability with a publicly available PoC exploit. It is crucial to apply security patches immediately and follow best practices to mitigate the risk of exploitation. Organizations must stay alert and monitor ongoing developments to ensure complete protection against this emerging threat. 

References: 

Security Advisory

Zero-Day Vulnerability in Windows Exposes NTLM Credentials

Summary

OEM

Microsoft

Severity

Critical

Date of Announcement

2024-12-12

CVE

Not yet assigned

Exploited in Wild

No

Patch/Remediation Available

Yes (No official patch)

Advisory Version

1.0

Vulnerability Name

NTLM Zero-Day

Overview

A recently discovered zero-day vulnerability in Windows, enables attackers to steal user credentials through a malicious file viewed in File Explorer. This “clickless” exploit bypasses the need for user interaction, creating significant security risks. While Microsoft investigates, 0patch has released an unofficial micropatch to mitigate the threat. Users are advised to apply the patch or implement mitigations to reduce exposure.

Vulnerability Name

CVE ID

Product Affected

Severity

NTLM zero-day

Not Yet Assigned

Microsoft Windows

Critical

Technical Summary

CVE ID

System Affected

Vulnerability Details

Impact

Not Yet Assigned

Windows 7 to 11 (24H2), Server 2008 R2 to 2022

A zero-day vulnerability that allows NTLM credential theft by viewing a malicious file in File Explorer. The flaw forces an outbound NTLM connection, leaking NTLM hashes. Exploitation requires no user interaction beyond viewing a malicious file, which can be delivered through shared folders, USB drives, or malicious downloads in the browser's default folder.

Enables attackers to steal NTLM credentials and  gain unauthorized access of the affected systems.

Remediations

  • Apply the 0patch Micropatch:
    • Register for a free account at 0patch Central.
    • Install the 0patch agent to automatically receive the micropatch.
  • Disable NTLM Authentication:
    • Navigate to Security Settings > Local Policies > Security Options in Group Policy.
    • Configure “Network security: Restrict NTLM” policies to limit NTLM usage. 

General Recommendations

  • Only enable patches or configurations after testing them on non-critical devices to ensure minimal impact.
  • Stay updated on Microsoft’s response and the availability of an official patch through trusted news sources or Microsoft’s advisories.
  • Inform users about the risks of handling unfamiliar files and downloading content from untrusted sources.
  • Monitor systems for suspicious NTLM-related activity.

References

Security Advisory

Advisory on MUT-8694: Threat Actors Exploiting Developer Trust in Open-Source Libraries

MUT-8694: Threat Actors Exploiting Developer Trust in Open-Source Libraries

Overview

In November 2024, a supply chain attack designated as MUT-8694 was identified, targeting developers relying on npm and PyPI package repositories. This campaign exploits trust in open-source ecosystems, utilizing typosquatting to distribute malicious packages. The malware predominantly affects Windows users, delivering advanced infostealer payloads.

MUT-8694 Campaign Details

The threat actors behind MUT-8694 use malicious packages that mimic legitimate libraries to infiltrate developer environments. The campaign employs techniques such as:

  • Typosquatting: Using package names that closely resemble popular or legitimate libraries.
  • Payload Delivery: Embedded scripts download malware such as Blank Grabber and Skuld Stealer hosted on GitHub and repl.it.
  • Targeted Ecosystems: npm and PyPI, critical platforms for developers.

             Source: Datadog

Key Findings

One identified package, larpexodus (version 0.1), executed a PowerShell command to download and run a Windows PE32 binary from github[.]com/holdthaw/main/CBLines.exe. Analysis revealed the binary was an infostealer malware, Blank Grabber, compiled from an open-source project hosted on GitHub. Further inspection of the repository exposed another stealer, Skuld Stealer, indicating the involvement of multiple commodity malware samples.

Capabilities of Malware

The deployed malware variants include advanced features that allow:

  • Credential Harvesting: Exfiltrating usernames, passwords, and sensitive data.
  • Cryptocurrency Wallet Theft: Targeting and compromising crypto assets.
  • Application Data Exfiltration: Stealing configuration files from popular applications

Affected Packages

Some known malicious packages include:

  • larpexodus (PyPI): Executes a PowerShell script to download malware.
  • Impersonations of npm libraries: Host binaries leading to infostealer deployment.

Remediation:

To mitigate the risks associated with this attack, users should:

  • Audit Installed Packages: Use tools like npm audit or pip audit to identify vulnerabilities.
  • Validate Package Sources: Verify package publishers and cross-check names carefully before installation.
  • Monitor Network Activity: Look for unusual connections to GitHub or repl.it domains.
  • Use Security Tools: Implement solutions that detect malicious dependencies.

General Recommendations:

  • Avoid downloading software from unofficial or unverified sources.
  • Regularly update packages and dependencies to the latest versions.
  • Conduct periodic security awareness training for developers and IT teams.

References:

Cybersecurity News

Godot Hijacked with Malware to infect Thousands of PC’s

Godot is a platform that host open source game development, where new Malware loader installed in its programming language

At least 17,000 devices were infected with infostealers and cryptojackers so far.

As per researchers cyber criminals have been building malicious code written in GDScript (Godot’s Python-like scripting language) calling on some 200 GitHub repositories and more than 220 Stargazer Ghost accounts.

Earlier hackers targeted the open sources gaming platform targeting users of the Godot Gaming Engine and researcher’s spotted that GodLoader would drop different malware to the infected devices mostly in RedLine stealer, and XMRig, a popular cryptojacker.

GodLoader, the researchers further explained, was downloaded at least 17,000 times, which is a rough estimate on the number of infected devices. However, the attack surface is much, much larger.

Check Point argues that in theory, crooks could hide malware in cheats, cracks, or modes, for different Godot-built games. Check Point detected four separate attack waves against developers and gamers between September 12 and October 3, enticing them to download infected tools and games.

Looking at the number of popular games developed with Godot, that would put the attack surface at approximately 1.2 million people.

Hackers delivered the GodLoader malware through the Stargazers Ghost Network, a malware Distribution-as-a-Service (DaaS) that masks its activities using seemingly legitimate GitHub repositories.

Technical Details

Godot does not register a file handler for “.pck” files. This means that a malicious actor always has to ship the Godot runtime together with a .pck file. The user will always have to unpack the runtime together with the .pck to the same location and then execute the runtime.

There is no way for a malicious actor to create a “one click exploit”, barring other OS-level vulnerabilities. If such an OS-level vulnerability were used then Godot would not be a particularly attractive option due to the size of the runtime.

News Security Advisory

Analysis of WezRat Malware; Check point Findings

New CheckPoint research discovered a new remote access trojan and information stealer used by Iranian state-sponsored actors to conduct reconnaissance of compromised endpoints and execute malicious commands.

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