Threats Tagged 'ms-sql'

During the first quarter of 2026, Windows-based MS-SQL and MySQL database servers experienced consistent malicious attacks with a temporary decrease in February before rising again in March. The primary threat actor, Larva-26002, leveraged various utilities including BCP, curl, bitsadmin, and PowerShell to deploy a Go-based scanner called ICE Cloud, which contained Turkish language strings and C&C-based scanning capabilities. This tool attempted MS-SQL authentication using predefined credentials. Attack methods primarily consisted of brute force attacks, dictionary attacks, and exploitation of unpatched systems with misconfigured accounts stemming from inadequate account management practices.

A recent attack on a poorly managed MS-SQL server involved the use of XiebroC2, an open-source C2 framework similar to CobaltStrike. The attackers exploited vulnerable credentials, installed JuicyPotato for privilege escalation, and then deployed XiebroC2 using PowerShell. XiebroC2 supports various features including remote control, information collection, and defense evasion across multiple platforms. The malware collects system information and connects to a C&C server for command execution. To protect against such attacks, administrators are advised to use complex passwords, regularly update them, keep security software current, and implement firewalls to restrict external access to publicly accessible database servers.

MediumMalwareGermanyUnited KingdomFrance+4#dictionary attack#juicypotato#privilege escalation

The analysis team has categorized attacks on MS-SQL and MySQL servers installed on Windows systems during Q2 2025. While the number of targeted systems remains stable, attacks on MS-SQL servers have been decreasing. MySQL servers saw a significant spike in attacks in June 2025. The report provides detailed statistics on attack trends, including graphs illustrating the attack status for both server types. It also includes a list of MD5 hashes, URLs, FQDNs, and IP addresses associated with the malicious activities. The analysis covers various types of malware and tools used in these attacks, ranging from backdoors and miners to ransomware and remote access trojans.

MediumCampaignGermanyFranceUnited Kingdom+7#hploader#database#shadowforce

The TA-ShadowCricket group, formerly known as Shadow Force, has been active in the Asia-Pacific region since 2012, targeting Windows servers and MS-SQL servers. They operate an IRC server with over 2,000 affected IPs in 72 countries. The group uses various malware and tools, including Upm, SqlShell, Maggie, and Wgdrop. Their activities involve three stages: initial access and reconnaissance, backdoor deployment, and additional malicious behaviors. The group has connections to China and has been quietly stealing information for over 13 years without demanding ransom or releasing stolen data. Their persistent activity suggests preparation for potential large-scale attacks in the future.

MediumMalwareGermanyFranceUnited Kingdom+7#apt#credentialstealer#ms-sql

A series of attacks targeting poorly managed MS-SQL servers have been identified, involving the installation of Ammyy Admin, a remote control tool. The attackers exploit vulnerable servers, execute commands to gather system information, and use WGet to install additional malware. The installed malware includes Ammyy Admin (mscorsvw.exe), its settings file (settings3.bin), and PetitPotato (p.ax). The attackers utilize an old version of Ammyy Admin (v3.10) and employ known exploitation methods to gain remote control. They also use PetitPotato for privilege escalation, adding new users and activating RDP services. To prevent such attacks, administrators are advised to use strong passwords, update software regularly, and implement security measures like firewalls.

MediumMalwareGermanyFranceUnited Kingdom+7#brute force#ms-sql#dictionary attack