Insikt Group uncovered new infrastructure linked to GrayAlpha, a threat actor associated with FIN7. They identified a custom PowerShell loader named PowerNet that deploys NetSupport RAT, and another loader called MaskBat. Three main infection vectors were discovered: fake browser updates, fake 7-Zip download sites, and the TAG-124 traffic distribution system. While all three methods were used simultaneously, only the fake 7-Zip sites remained active at the time of writing. The analysis also led to the identification of a potential individual involved in GrayAlpha operations. The group's sophisticated tactics highlight the need for comprehensive security measures, including application allow-listing, employee training, and advanced detection techniques.
MintsLoader, a malicious loader first observed in 2024, is employed in phishing and drive-by download campaigns to deploy payloads like GhostWeaver, StealC, and modified BOINC clients. It uses obfuscated JavaScript and PowerShell scripts in a multi-stage infection chain, featuring sandbox evasion techniques, a domain generation algorithm, and HTTP-based C2 communications. Various threat groups, including TAG-124 and SocGholish operators, utilize MintsLoader to target industrial, legal, and energy sectors. The loader's sophisticated obfuscation and evasion methods complicate detection, but Recorded Future's Malware Intelligence Hunting provides up-to-date information on new samples and C2 domains.
