Cisco Talos uncovered 'DKnife', a sophisticated gateway-monitoring and adversary-in-the-middle (AitM) framework comprising seven Linux-based implants. Used since 2019, DKnife performs deep-packet inspection, traffic manipulation, and malware delivery via routers and edge devices. It targets various devices, including PCs, mobile devices, and IoT, delivering ShadowPad and DarkNimbus backdoors. The framework primarily targets Chinese-speaking users, with evidence suggesting China-nexus threat actors as operators. DKnife's capabilities include DNS hijacking, Android application update hijacking, Windows binary hijacking, anti-virus traffic disruption, and user activity monitoring. A link to the WizardNet campaign was also discovered, indicating a shared development or operational lineage.
A new evolution in the ClickFix campaign, dubbed CrashFix, has been identified. This variant deliberately crashes victims' browsers and uses social engineering to lure users into executing malicious commands. The attack begins with a malicious ad redirecting users to install a harmful browser extension impersonating a legitimate ad blocker. The payload causes delayed browser issues and presents a fake security warning. It misuses the Windows utility finger.exe to execute malicious commands and downloads additional payloads, including a Python-based Remote Access Trojan (RAT). The RAT, named ModeloRAT, establishes persistence and performs extensive reconnaissance. The campaign targets domain-joined systems and employs multiple obfuscation techniques to evade detection.
The hacker claims to have stolen nearly 700,000 Substack user records, including email addresses and phone numbers. The post Substack Discloses Security Incident After Hacker Leaks Data appeared first on SecurityWeek .
Criminals are using AI to clone professional websites at an industrial scale. A new report shows how one AI-powered network grew to 150+ domains by hiding behind Cloudflare and rotating IP ranges. The post Researchers Expose Network of 150 Cloned Law Firm Websites in AI-Powered Scam Campaign appeared first on SecurityWeek .
Italy has foiled a series of cyberattacks targeting some of its foreign ministry offices, including one in Washington. The post Italy Averted Russian-Linked Cyberattacks Targeting Winter Olympics Websites, Foreign Minister Says appeared first on SecurityWeek .
SystemBC is a malware strain that has recently infected over 10,000 devices despite previous law enforcement efforts to dismantle its infrastructure. It is primarily known for deploying ransomware and other malicious payloads, as well as using compromised machines to proxy traffic, which can facilitate further attacks or anonymize threat actor activities. The malware's persistence and ability to evade takedown attempts highlight its resilience and ongoing threat. Although no specific affected software versions or exploits are detailed, the infection scale and functionality suggest a significant risk to organizations. The threat is rated medium severity due to its impact on confidentiality and availability, moderate ease of exploitation, and broad infection scope. European organizations, especially those with extensive networked environments, could face operational disruptions and data breaches. Mitigation requires focused network monitoring, blocking known proxy traffic patterns, and rapid incident response to infected hosts. Countries with high technology adoption and critical infrastructure are more likely targets. Defenders should prioritize detection of SystemBC-related traffic and strengthen endpoint protections to prevent initial infection and lateral movement.
The Cyberspy Group is an advanced persistent threat (APT) actor that has conducted cyber espionage operations targeting governments and critical infrastructure across 37 countries. Although Palo Alto Networks has not officially attributed this group, evidence suggests a likely connection to China. The campaign involves sophisticated intrusion techniques aimed at compromising sensitive governmental and infrastructure systems, potentially leading to significant confidentiality and operational impacts. No specific affected software versions or vulnerabilities have been disclosed, and no known exploits are currently reported in the wild. The threat is assessed as critical due to the broad scope, high-value targets, and potential for severe disruption. European organizations, especially those involved in government and critical infrastructure sectors, face heightened risk. Mitigation requires enhanced network monitoring, threat intelligence sharing, and rigorous access controls tailored to detect and prevent APT intrusions. Countries with significant government and critical infrastructure digital footprints, such as Germany, France, the UK, Italy, and the Netherlands, are most likely to be affected given their strategic importance and historical targeting patterns. The threat's complexity and stealthy nature necessitate proactive defense measures beyond standard patching and antivirus solutions.
For a few days, many phishing emails that landed into my mailbox contain strange URLs. They are classic emails asking you to open a document, verify your pending emails, …
A malicious email attachment containing a . bat script is delivering a multi-stage malware payload designed to steal data via a Chrome injector. The initial script is a fork of publicly available GitHub code but includes obfuscated Base64-encoded payloads executed through PowerShell. The payload fetches additional components from a compromised website, including a . NET program that establishes persistence via scheduled tasks and communicates with a Telegram-based command and control (C2) server. This malware, identified as XWorm V7.x, uses sophisticated obfuscation and evasion techniques to avoid detection. It targets Windows systems and aims to steal sensitive information silently. The attack does not require user interaction beyond opening the malicious attachment and does not currently have known widespread exploitation but poses a medium risk. European organizations using Windows and Chrome browsers are potential targets, especially those with less mature email security controls.
The KRVTZ-NET IDS alerts from February 5, 2026, report reconnaissance activities targeting Fortigate VPN devices and web applications vulnerable to JavaScript prototype pollution. The reconnaissance includes scanning and probing from multiple IP addresses, with repeated attempts to exploit CVE-2023-27997, which allows unauthenticated attackers to bypass authentication on Fortigate VPNs. No active exploitation or lateral movement has been observed. The overall severity of this reconnaissance phase is low, but it indicates ongoing threat actor interest. Organizations, particularly in Europe, using Fortigate VPNs or vulnerable web applications should prioritize patching and hardening to mitigate future risks.
In early February 2026, an intrusion was detected where threat actors exploited compromised SonicWall SSLVPN credentials for initial network access. The attackers deployed an EDR killer utilizing a legitimate but revoked EnCase forensic driver to terminate security processes from kernel mode. This technique, known as Bring Your Own Vulnerable Driver (BYOVD), bypasses Windows Driver Signature Enforcement. The attack was halted before ransomware deployment, but it highlights the growing trend of weaponizing signed, legitimate drivers to disable endpoint security. The intrusion involved aggressive network reconnaissance, deployment of a sophisticated EDR killer with an encoded kernel driver payload, and attempts to establish persistence. The case underscores the importance of multi-factor authentication, VPN log monitoring, and implementing Microsoft's recommended driver block rules.
Transparent Tribe, also known as APT36, has expanded its targeting to include India's startup ecosystem, particularly those in the cybersecurity domain. The group is using startup-oriented themed lure material delivered via ISO container-based files to deploy Crimson RAT. This campaign deviates from their typical government and defense targets, suggesting a shift in strategy towards companies providing open-source intelligence services and collaborating with law enforcement agencies. The attack chain involves spear-phishing emails, malicious LNK files, and batch scripts to execute the Crimson RAT payload. The malware employs extensive obfuscation techniques and uses a custom TCP protocol for command and control communications. This activity demonstrates the group's adaptation of proven tooling for new victim profiles while maintaining its core behavioral tactics, techniques, and procedures.
A shadow DNS network and HTTP-based traffic distribution system (TDS) hosted in Aeza International, a sanctioned bulletproof hosting company, has been discovered. The system compromises routers, altering their DNS settings to use shadow resolvers. These resolvers selectively modify responses, directing users to malicious content. The TDS incorporates a clever DNS trick to evade detection by security groups. The system, operational since mid-2022, appears to be run by a financially motivated actor in affiliate marketing. It has the potential to interfere with devices on the network, alter DNS records, and conduct adversary-in-the-middle operations. The threat actor's ability to control DNS resolution poses significant risks beyond delivering unwanted advertising.
While both cyberwar and cyberwarfare will increase through 2026, cyberwarfare is likely to increase more dramatically. We hope it will never boil over – but we should be aware of the possibility and its consequences. The post Cyber Insights 2026: Cyberwar and Rising Nation State Threats appeared first on SecurityWeek .
DragonForce, a ransomware group that emerged in late 2023, has become a significant cyber threat. They employ a dual-extortion strategy, encrypting and exfiltrating data, and have targeted various sectors, particularly manufacturing and construction. The group offers a flexible ransomware-as-a-service platform with advanced features, supporting multiple platforms and encryption modes. DragonForce has announced a shift to a cartel model, allowing affiliates to create their own brands. They've also introduced automated registration for new affiliates and a 'Company Data Audit' service to enhance extortion campaigns. The group has engaged in conflicts with rival ransomware operations and claims to have formed a coalition with other major groups. While their connection to DragonForce Malaysia remains unsubstantiated, technical analysis reveals similarities with other ransomware families and sophisticated attack techniques.
Two IP addresses accounted for the majority of the 1.4 million exploitation attempts observed over the past week. The post Cryptominers, Reverse Shells Dropped in Recent React2Shell Attacks appeared first on SecurityWeek .
CVE-2026-20981 is a medium severity vulnerability in Samsung Mobile devices caused by improper input validation in the FacAtFunction component prior to the SMR February 2026 Release 1. This flaw allows a privileged physical attacker to execute arbitrary commands with system-level privileges. Exploitation requires physical access and privileged status, with no user interaction needed. The vulnerability impacts confidentiality, integrity, and availability due to the potential for full system compromise. No known exploits are currently in the wild, and no patches have been linked yet. European organizations using Samsung Mobile devices could be at risk, especially in countries with high Samsung market penetration and critical infrastructure relying on these devices. Mitigation involves restricting physical access, monitoring for unusual system commands, and promptly applying Samsung's security updates once released. Countries like Germany, the UK, France, Italy, and Spain are most likely affected due to their large Samsung user bases and strategic importance. The vulnerability's medium severity reflects the balance between high impact and the requirement for physical privileged access.
CVE-2026-20980 is a high-severity vulnerability affecting Samsung Mobile devices due to improper input validation in the PACM component prior to the SMR Feb-2026 Release 1. This flaw allows a physical attacker to execute arbitrary commands on the device without requiring authentication or user interaction. The vulnerability has a CVSS 4.0 score of 7.0, reflecting its significant impact on confidentiality, integrity, and availability. Although no known exploits are currently reported in the wild, the ease of exploitation and the critical nature of mobile devices make this a serious threat. European organizations using Samsung Mobile devices, especially those with sensitive data or critical communications, could face risks of device compromise and data breaches. Mitigation requires timely application of Samsung’s security updates once available, physical device security controls, and monitoring for unusual device behavior. Countries with high Samsung mobile market penetration and strategic importance in technology sectors, such as Germany, the UK, France, and Italy, are most likely to be affected. Defenders should prioritize patch management and physical security to reduce exposure to this vulnerability.
