Chihuahua Infostealer is a sophisticated .NET-based malware identified in April 2025, primarily targeting browser credentials and cryptocurrency wallet data. It employs a multi-stage infection chain initiated through obfuscated PowerShell scripts, which are often delivered via trusted platforms such as Google Drive to evade initial detection and increase the likelihood of user execution. Once executed, the malware establishes persistence on the infected system by creating scheduled tasks, ensuring it remains active across reboots. It performs hardware fingerprinting to uniquely identify infected hosts, which may assist in targeted data collection or evasion of sandbox environments. The malware extensively harvests sensitive data from a wide range of browsers and cryptocurrency wallet extensions, focusing on credentials and wallet keys that can be monetized or leveraged for further attacks. Data exfiltration is conducted using encryption to avoid detection by network monitoring tools. Additionally, Chihuahua Infostealer incorporates cleanup routines to remove traces of its activity, complicating forensic analysis and incident response. While the exact origin of the malware remains unclear, embedded transliterated Russian rap lyrics suggest possible Russian threat actor involvement, potentially linked to Unit 26165, known for targeting Western logistics and technology sectors. The malware leverages multiple MITRE ATT&CK techniques including obfuscated scripts (T1027), scheduled tasks for persistence (T1053.005), user execution (T1204.002), credential access (T1555.003), and encrypted data exfiltration (T1041), highlighting its advanced capabilities and targeted nature. Although no known exploits in the wild have been reported, the malware’s use of trusted distribution channels and sophisticated evasion tactics make it a significant threat to personal and financial information security.

For European organizations, particularly those in logistics, technology, and financial sectors, Chihuahua Infostealer poses a substantial risk. The theft of browser credentials and cryptocurrency wallet data can lead to direct financial losses, unauthorized access to corporate and personal accounts, and potential lateral movement within networks if credentials overlap with enterprise systems. The malware’s persistence and evasion techniques increase the difficulty of detection and remediation, potentially allowing prolonged data exfiltration and espionage. Given the increasing adoption of cryptocurrencies and reliance on browser-based applications in Europe, the threat extends beyond individual users to corporate environments where compromised credentials could facilitate supply chain attacks or intellectual property theft. Furthermore, the use of trusted platforms like Google Drive for initial infection vectors complicates traditional perimeter defenses, increasing the likelihood of successful compromise. The presence of hardware fingerprinting suggests targeted campaigns, which could be tailored against high-value European targets, amplifying the strategic impact. Overall, the malware threatens confidentiality and integrity of sensitive data, with moderate impact on availability due to its stealthy nature rather than destructive payloads.

European organizations should implement a layered defense strategy tailored to the specific tactics used by Chihuahua Infostealer. First, enhance email and web filtering to detect and block obfuscated PowerShell scripts and suspicious links, especially those pointing to cloud storage services like Google Drive. Employ endpoint detection and response (EDR) solutions capable of monitoring and alerting on scheduled task creation and unusual PowerShell activity. Enforce strict application whitelisting and script execution policies to limit unauthorized script execution. Regularly audit and restrict permissions for scheduled tasks and review persistence mechanisms. Deploy browser security controls and extensions that can detect or block unauthorized access to stored credentials and cryptocurrency wallets. Encourage the use of hardware-based multi-factor authentication (MFA) to reduce the risk of credential misuse. Network monitoring should include detection of encrypted outbound traffic anomalies indicative of data exfiltration. Incident response teams should be trained to recognize cleanup routines and conduct thorough forensic analysis to identify and remove all traces of infection. Finally, user awareness training should emphasize the risks of executing scripts from unverified sources, even if hosted on trusted platforms, to reduce the likelihood of initial compromise.