A new hack originating from infected PDF files and emails could compromise your browser data.
A recent report from Fortinet has highlighted a new variant of the Snake Keylogger, a new take on an old threat that has been causing issues for Windows users since at least 2020. This enhanced keylogger is designed to steal sensitive information from popular web browsers like Chrome, Edge, and Firefox. It logs keystrokes, captures credentials, and monitors the clipboard, making it a serious threat to your data security.
First, let’s get our definitions right, a keylogger is a malicious piece of software that records your keypresses or typing data and ships it off to a hacker. One of the reasons keyloggers can be so problematic for business and personal computers is they don’t always need admin permissions to run.
How It Works
The new feature added to this old keylogger, is a delay set to the attack for when your PC restarts, making it harder to detect and stop. It hides among Windows’ normal processing tools, which helps it avoid detection by traditional security measures. The malware uses a scripting language called AutoIt to deliver and execute its malicious payload, further making it harder to detect.
Persistence Mechanism
One of the key features of this threat is its ability to maintain access to your system even after a restart. It drops a file into the Windows Startup folder, allowing it to launch whenever your PC restarts. This means it can re-establish a foothold on your system even if the malicious process is terminated. Additionally, it benefits from the Windows Startup folder’s ability to run scripts, executables, or shortcuts without requiring administrative privileges.
Global Impact
This threat is not limited to a specific region like the United States. Fortinet has reported sightings of this keylogger in countries like China, Turkey, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Spain. It’s clear that this threat is well-traveled and poses a risk to users worldwide.
Protecting Your Systems
Fortunately, our business clients are protected by our AI supercharged anti-virus software, SentinelOne, that is always running in the background of their computers. If it detects this application behavior, it will kill the keylogger and automatically quarantine any associated files.
For our residential customers and non-client business friends, to protect your systems from this threat, we recommend the following steps:
- Ensure your security software is up to date and running the latest definitions, if you don’t have any antivirus software on your computer then getting one installed should be your first priority.
- Be cautious when opening email attachments, especially Office or PDF files, unless you are expecting them from a trusted source.
- Regularly back up your important data to prevent loss in case of an attack.
- Stay vigilant and keep your systems secure. If you have any questions or need assistance, please don’t hesitate to reach out to our business or residential support teams.
Thank you for your attention, and stay safe!
