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New Phishing Delivery Method

A new technique is being used in a phishing campaign designed to steal banking data with the help of leveraging tactics associated with malware.
Threat ID:
CC-1039
Category:
Ransomware, Trojan
Threat Severity:
Low
Threat Vector:
Phishing
Published:
3 January 2017 12:00 AM
Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

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This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information. Use of this information contained in this page is at your own risk

Summary

A new technique is being used in a phishing campaign designed to steal banking data with the help of leveraging tactics associated with malware.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

All windows variants

Threat details

The newly identified malware delivery method is spreading the Cerber ransomware and URsnif banking trojan by leveraging a password protected .zip file archive containing a malicious document. This method is effective as the use of password protected documents makes it difficult to execute in sandbox environments and can, in some circumstances, bypass mail filtering and antivirus products. Providing the password within the emails makes it seem more authentic to the end recipient.

Remediation steps

Type Step
  • A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails.
  • All operating systems, antivirus and other security products are kept up to date.
  • All day to day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts.
  • Strong password policies are in place and password reuse is discouraged.
  • Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity.

Last edited: 17 February 2020 11:36 am