Malware Hidden In Software Packages Hits Developers

Uploaded on 2024-10-01 in FREE TO VIEW

Threat actors connected to North Korea have been using poisoned Python packages to deliver a new malware, called PondRAT, as part of their attack strategy.

PondRAT, according to new findings from Palo Alto Networks Unit 42, is assessed to be a lighter version of POOLRAT, a known macOS backdoor that has been previously attributed to the Lazarus Group.

Some of these attacks are part of a persistent cyber attack campaign dubbed Operation Dream Job, so that prospective targets are lured with enticing job offers in an attempt to trick them into downloading malware.

The adversary is also tracked by the wider cyber security community under the names Citrine Sleet, Labyrinth Chollima, Nickel Academy, and UNC4736, a sub-cluster within the Lazarus Group that's also known for distributing the AppleJeus malware.

It's believed that the end goal of the attacks is to secure access to supply chain vendors through developers' endpoints and subsequently gain access to the vendors' customers' endpoints, as observed in previous incidents.

The infection chain is fairly simple in that the packages, once downloaded and installed on developer systems, are engineered to execute an encoded next-stage that, in turn, runs the Linux and macOS versions of the RAT malware after retrieving them from a remote server.

The aim of the hackers includes financial gain via illicit salary withdrawals, maintaining long-term access to victim networks, and likely abusing the unauthorised access for espionage or disruptive activity.

Malware Capabilities and Objectives

PondRAT is described as a lighter version of POOLRAT, designed with enhanced capabilities for both Linux and macOS platforms. It includes functionality to upload and download files, execute arbitrary commands, and pause operations based on preconfigured time intervals.

The malware’s core components resemble those of POOLRAT, particularly in how it processes commands from its command-and-control (C2) server.

The Linux and macOS variants of POOLRAT share an almost identical structure in their configuration loading mechanisms, with method names and functionality being strikingly similar across both platforms.

This continuity across different operating systems suggests that Gleaming Pisces has been refining its toolkit to enhance its reach and effectiveness.

Supply Chain Compromise and Developer Targeting

The strategic targeting of software developers through poisoned Python packages is part of a broader goal to gain access to supply chain vendors.

By compromising developers’ endpoints, the attackers can infiltrate vendor networks and ultimately reach the customers of these vendors, similar to the infamous 3CX incident.

This attack method poses significant risks, as successful installation of malicious packages in development environments can lead to widespread compromise within an organisation’s network.

Once inside, the malware can provide attackers with remote access, enabling data theft, espionage, and further propagation through the network.

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