Skip to main content
Press slash or control plus K to focus the search. Use the arrow keys to navigate results and press enter to open a threat.
Reconnecting to live updates…

Hackers breach F5 BIG-IP APM devices to deploy Linux rootkit

0
High
Malwarelinuxphp
Published: 09/08/2026 (09/08/2026, 20:08:55 UTC)
Source: Bleeping Computer

Description

A Linux rootkit has been identified targeting F5 BIG-IP APM devices. This rootkit intercepts PHP file loading processes and injects a fileless web shell directly into memory, which allows it to avoid writing malicious code to disk. This technique complicates detection and forensic analysis. The rootkit specifically affects F5 BIG-IP APM environments and leverages in-memory injection to maintain persistence and stealth.

AI-Powered Analysis

Machine-generated threat intelligence

AILast updated: 09/08/2026, 20:22:20 UTC

Technical Analysis

The threat involves a Linux rootkit that compromises F5 BIG-IP APM devices by intercepting PHP file loading and injecting a fileless web shell into memory. This method bypasses disk-based detection mechanisms by avoiding writing malicious files to storage. The rootkit targets the application delivery controller environment provided by F5 BIG-IP APM, enabling attackers to maintain stealthy access and potentially control over the device. No specific affected versions or CVE identifiers are provided. There is no indication of known exploits in the wild or vendor patches at this time.

Potential Impact

The rootkit enables attackers to maintain stealthy, persistent access to compromised F5 BIG-IP APM devices by injecting malicious code directly into memory. This can lead to unauthorized control, interception of PHP processes, and potential further compromise of network infrastructure relying on these devices. The fileless nature of the web shell complicates detection and incident response efforts.

Defensive Guidance

Patch status is not yet confirmed — check the vendor advisory for current remediation guidance. Until official fixes or guidance are available, organizations should monitor for unusual activity on F5 BIG-IP APM devices and apply any recommended security best practices from F5. No vendor advisory or patch information is currently provided.

Pro Console: star threats, build custom feeds, automate alerts via Slack, email & webhooks.Upgrade to Pro

Technical Details

Classification
{"confidence":0.79,"severitySource":"default","classifier":"rss-v2"}
Article Source
{"url":"https://www.bleepingcomputer.com/news/security/hackers-breach-f5-big-ip-apm-devices-to-deploy-linux-rootkit/","fetched":true,"fetchedAt":"2026-09-08T20:22:15.317Z","wordCount":822}

Threat ID: 6aa06e77acd9273b492dfeeb

Added to database: 09/08/2026, 20:22:15 UTC

Last enriched: 09/08/2026, 20:22:20 UTC

Last updated: 09/09/2026, 04:01:28 UTC

Views: 27

Community Reviews

0 reviews

Crowdsource mitigation strategies, share intel context, and vote on the most helpful responses. Sign in to add your voice and help keep defenders ahead.

Sort by
Loading community insights…

Want to contribute mitigation steps or threat intel context? Sign in or create an account to join the community discussion.

Actions

PRO

Updates to AI analysis require Pro Console access. Upgrade inside Console → Billing.

Please log in to the Console to use AI analysis features.

Need more coverage?

Upgrade to Pro Console for AI refresh and higher limits.

For incident response and remediation, OffSeq services can help resolve threats faster.

Latest Threats

Breach by OffSeqOFFSEQFRIENDS — 25% OFF

Check if your credentials are on the dark web

Instant breach scanning across billions of leaked records. Free tier available.

Scan now
OffSeq TrainingCredly Certified

Lead Pen Test Professional

Technical5-day eLearningPECB Accredited
View courses