Super-Sophisticated Spyware Has Been Discovered After Undetected Five-Year Run

BY:

After spending a half-decade operating undetected, an APT (advanced persistent threat) known as “ProjectSauron” has been uncovered by both Symantec and Kaspersky Labs. A group called “Strider” has been using Remsec, an advanced tool that appears to have been designed for spying.

According to Symantec, the malware has been active since at least October 2011. Symantec became aware of ProjectSauron when their behavioural engineer detected the virus on a customer’s systems. Kaspersky’s software detected the malware in a Windows domain controller as an executable library registered as a Windows password filter.

advanced persistent threat

The spyware can deploy custom modules as required, and has a network monitor. Once it has infected a system, it can open backdoors, log keystrokes, and steal files. It is heavily encrypted, allowing it to avoid detection as it takes control, moving across the network and stealing data. As many of its functions are deployed over the network, it resides only in the computer’s memory, not on disk. This, along with the fact that several components are in the form of Binary Large Objects makes it extremely difficult for antivirus software to detect.

So far, evidence of a ProjectSauron infection has been detected in 36 computers by Symatec, spanning seven separate organizations in Russia, China, Sweden, and Belgium, as well as individual’s PCs in Russia. Kaspersky has found more than 30 infections across Russia, Iran, and Rawanda, and suspects that Italy may also have been targeted.

Both Symantec and Kaspersky have suggested that a nation-state may be behind this APT. Kaspersky has collected 28 domains and 11 IP addresses in the US and Europe that may be connected to ProjectSauron campaigns. While it appears that the spyware has gone dark, no one can confirm whether or not Strider’s efforts have ceased. If Strider is in fact a nation-state attacker, these infections will likely continue to crop up.

The fact that ProjectSauron operates by mimicking a password filter module is yet another indication that it may be time for technology users worldwide to move away from relying on passwords, favoring instead biometrics and other more sophisticated security measures.

Need more information on how to best protect your data, devices and business against malware? Contact {company} at {phone} or {email} with your questions. We’re the trusted IT professionals for businesses in {city}.

Related Blogs

  • The image is a black chalkboard with a yellow target and arrow at the center over the top of intersecting lines indicating computer system complexity." alt="">
    AWS Cloud Computing for University Systems

    AWS cloud computing for universities & colleges At the beginning of the COVID pandemic, many colleges and universities discovered the advantages of accessibility, flexibility, and organizational...

    Learn More
  • A customer service agent utilizes four benefits of Amazon Connect customer profiles to provide a better experience to each customer." alt="">
    4 Big Benefits of Amazon Connect Customer Profiles

    Having access to the correct data when providing customer service is crucial. Without the help of the right technology, this wouldn’t be possible. It’s also inherently necessary due to the volume...

    Learn More
  • The image shows an overhead view of two agents sitting at a shared desk and doing a first bump after providing a high-quality customer experience with Amazon Connect." alt="">
    Amazon Connect – Empower Agents to Offer Exceptional Customer Service and Deliver Quality

    Empower agents for exceptional customer service.     Customer service impacts a business on multiple fronts. First, high-quality and effective customer service builds a brand image and...

    Learn More