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An unknown threat actor has been creating malicious Chrome browser extensions since February 2024, using fake websites to lure users into installing them. These extensions have dual functionality, appearing to work as intended while also connecting to malicious servers to steal user data and execute arbitrary code. The extensions request excessive permissions and use various techniques to bypass security measures. They communicate with actor-controlled API domains, sending encrypted system information and receiving dynamic rules and code. The malicious activities include cookie theft, traffic manipulation, and potential account compromises. Over 100 fake websites and extensions have been deployed, exploiting current trends to attract users. The Chrome Web Store has removed some extensions, but the actor's persistence poses an ongoing threat to users seeking productivity tools and browser enhancements.

Since February 2024, an unknown threat actor has been deploying a widespread campaign involving malicious Chrome browser extensions distributed via over 100 fake websites. These extensions exhibit dual-functionality: they provide legitimate or seemingly useful browser features to avoid suspicion while simultaneously performing covert malicious activities. Upon installation, the extensions request excessive permissions that enable them to access sensitive browser data and system information. They establish encrypted communications with attacker-controlled API endpoints to exfiltrate data and receive dynamic commands and code updates, allowing the malware to adapt and evade detection. The malicious capabilities include stealing cookies, which can lead to session hijacking and account compromises, manipulating web traffic to alter user interactions or inject malicious content, and executing arbitrary code within the browser context. The extensions employ various evasion techniques to bypass Chrome’s security mechanisms and detection by security tools. Despite some removals by the Chrome Web Store, the actor remains persistent, continuously creating new fake websites and extensions that exploit trending topics to lure users seeking productivity tools or browser enhancements. This campaign leverages a broad range of tactics, techniques, and procedures (TTPs) including credential access, system information discovery, command and control communication, and code injection, as indicated by the referenced MITRE ATT&CK techniques (e.g., T1113, T1033, T1114, T1119, T1082, T1071, T1176, T1140, T1555, T1185, T1016, T1059, T1083, T1102, T1573, T1056, T1012, T1132, T1189, T1124). The campaign’s sophistication and persistence pose a significant threat to users and organizations relying on Chrome extensions for daily operations.

Detailed information about Hidden Threats of Dual-Function Malware Found in Chrome Extensions. Get real-time updates, technical details, and mitigation strategi

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