Threats Tagged 'adtech'

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.

MediumMalwareGermanyFranceUnited Kingdom+5#aeza networks#compromised routers#dnschanger

This report provides an in-depth analysis of VexTrio's traffic distribution system (TDS) infrastructure. It reveals their use of resilient, fault-tolerant systems spread across multiple hosting providers and data centers. Key components include DevOps tools like Terraform and Kubernetes, tracking software such as Binom, and cloaking capabilities. The analysis exposes VexTrio's reliance on content delivery networks (CDNs) as potential vulnerabilities. Their CDN domains rank among the top 10,000 most popular websites globally, highlighting the massive scale of their operations. The research aims to shed light on the inner workings of malicious adtech networks to spur further investigation into the industry.

MediumCampaignGermanyUnited KingdomFrance+2#binom#devops#content delivery network

An investigation into VexTrio, a malicious traffic distribution system (TDS), revealed surprising connections between WordPress hackers and adtech companies. When VexTrio's operations were disrupted, multiple malware actors migrated to a new TDS that was discovered to be related to VexTrio. Several commercial TDSs were found to share software elements with VexTrio and benefit from its relationship with website malware actors. The investigation uncovered a complex network of adtech firms, including Partners House, BroPush, and RichAds, that use similar technologies and tactics to distribute malicious content. These firms have information about the identities of malware actors, which could potentially lead to their disruption.

MediumMalwareCzechiaGermanyUnited Kingdom+6#dollyway#wordpress#hackers