The QBot malware has been found to employ a new infection chain, utilizing the Windows 7 Calculator app as a means to deploy its payload on compromised computers. This discovery was made by researchers at Cyble. The attack commences with the use of Cobalt Strike beacons, followed by QBot exploiting the Calculator app through DLL side-loading attacks. Malspam campaigns are utilized to disseminate the malware, with the latest campaign employing emails containing HTML file attachments. These attachments download a password-protected ZIP archive, within which an ISO file is included. The ISO file consists of a .lnk file, calc .exe, WindowsCodecs.dll, and 7533.dll. Disguised as a PDF or Microsoft Edge document, the .lnk file points to the Windows Calculator application. Upon clicking the shortcut, a command prompt window appears, and the Calculator attempts to load the WindowsCodecs DLL file. The .lnk file prompts the user to run the Calc.exe file. In order to safeguard against this malware, it is advised to refrain from opening emails from unfamiliar senders, utilize strong and unique passwords, and implement multi-factor authentication. Moreover, reliable anti-virus software should be employed, and the authenticity of links and attachments should be verified before opening.
Key Takeaways
- QBot malware is using the Windows Calculator app for DLL side-loading attacks on infected computers.
- Malspam campaigns are being used to spread the QBot malware, with emails containing HTML file attachments.
- The HTML file attachment downloads a password-protected ZIP archive, which contains an ISO file.
- The ISO file includes a disguised .LNK file that prompts the user to run the calc.exe file, initiating the payload.
Infection Chain
The infection chain of the QBot malware involves the initial step of Cobalt Strike beacons, followed by the exploitation of the Windows 7 Calculator app for DLL side-loading attacks, which are facilitated through malspam campaigns utilizing emails with HTML file attachments, according to researchers at Cyble. To detect QBot malware, it is important to implement effective detection techniques such as network monitoring, endpoint security solutions, and email filtering. Additionally, organizations can employ intrusion detection systems and behavior-based analysis to identify and mitigate the threat. Mitigation strategies for DLL side-loading attacks include implementing strong access controls, regularly patching and updating software, and conducting regular security awareness training for employees. By following these practices, organizations can enhance their defense against QBot malware and minimize the risk of infection.
Attachment Details
Attachment details of the QBot malware campaign include an HTML file attachment that downloads a password-protected ZIP archive. This ZIP file contains an ISO file, which in turn includes a disguised .LNK file, calc .exe, and DLL files. The use of password protection for ZIP archives is a common method to safeguard sensitive files. In addition to password protection, organizations can employ encryption techniques to further secure the contents of the archive.
To detect and prevent DLL side loading attacks in their network environments, organizations can implement several measures. Firstly, they can deploy security solutions that include advanced threat detection capabilities, such as behavior-based analysis and anomaly detection, to identify suspicious DLL loading activities. Additionally, organizations should regularly update their operating systems and applications to ensure that known vulnerabilities are patched. They should also enforce strict application whitelisting policies to prevent the execution of unauthorized DLL files. Finally, user awareness training and phishing simulations can help educate employees about the risks associated with opening attachments or clicking on malicious links.
Recommendations
To enhance cybersecurity measures and protect against potential threats, organizations should consider implementing the following recommendations. Firstly, user education plays a crucial role in preventing malware infections. It is important to educate employees about the risks associated with opening emails from unknown or irrelevant senders and downloading software from unreliable sources. Furthermore, best practices for securing email communication and attachments should be followed. This includes verifying the authenticity of links and attachments before opening them, as well as implementing measures to block URLs used for spreading malware. Additionally, organizations should consider implementing robust anti-virus software, monitoring the beacon to prevent data exfiltration, and providing employees with a Data Loss Prevention (DLP) solution. By following these recommendations, organizations can strengthen their cybersecurity defenses and mitigate the risk of malware infections.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the QBot malware?
The purpose of the QBot malware is to infect computers and gain unauthorized access to sensitive information. It can lead to various consequences such as data theft, financial loss, and compromised network security. Organizations can detect and remove QBot malware by using reliable antivirus software, monitoring network traffic, and implementing security measures such as multi-factor authentication and data loss prevention solutions.
How does the QBot malware exploit the Windows Calculator app?
The QBot malware utilizes various techniques and evasion tactics to exploit the Windows Calculator app. Through DLL side-loading attacks and malspam campaigns, it delivers a payload that includes a password-protected ZIP archive and an ISO file containing malicious files disguised as PDF or Microsoft Edge documents. Once executed, the payload opens a command prompt window and attempts to load the WindowsCodecs DLL file. The QBot malware poses a significant threat to infected systems, allowing for potential data exfiltration and unauthorized access. An analysis of its payload reveals its impact on compromising the security and integrity of the targeted computers.
What types of files are included in the password-protected ZIP archive?
The password-protected ZIP archive contains various files, including an ISO file. The ISO file includes a .lnk file, calc .exe, WindowsCodecs.dll, and 7533.dll. Common delivery methods for malware include malspam campaigns and email attachments.
How does the QBot malware trick users into running the malicious files?
Common techniques used by malware to trick users into running malicious files include disguising the files as legitimate and enticing documents, using social engineering tactics to manipulate user trust, and exploiting vulnerabilities in trusted applications. Social engineering plays a crucial role in convincing users to open infected files by exploiting their curiosity, fear, or urgency through convincing email content or deceptive website designs.
How can individuals protect themselves from QBot malware and similar threats?
To protect personal computers from malware attacks like QBot, individuals should follow best practices such as avoiding unknown or irrelevant emails, not downloading pirated software, using strong passwords and multi-factor authentication, and regularly updating passwords. To detect and remove QBot malware from an infected system, individuals should use reliable anti-virus software, verify the authenticity of links and attachments, block malicious URLs, monitor for data exfiltration, and consider implementing a Data Loss Prevention solution.
