Phantom Footprints: Tracking GhostSocks Malware

GhostSocks is an emerging threat that turns compromised devices into residential proxy nodes, enabling attackers to evade detection. Originally marketed on Russian underground forums as Malware-as-a-Service, it has gained popularity due to its partnership with Lumma Stealer. Written in GoLang, GhostSocks uses SOCKS5 proxy protocol and TLS encryption to blend malicious traffic into normal network activity. It also incorporates backdoor functionality for running arbitrary commands and deploying additional payloads. Darktrace observed an increase in GhostSocks activity, detecting it alongside Lumma Stealer in customer networks. The malware's versatility in converting devices into proxy nodes while enabling covert network access illustrates how threat actors maximize the value of compromised infrastructure.

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