[![Logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/07/PANW_Parent.png)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/)  
[![Unit42 Logo](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/unit42-logo-white.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/)  
Menu

* [Tools](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tools/)
* [ATOMs](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/atoms/)
* [Security Consulting](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42)
* [About Us](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/about-unit-42/)
* [**Under Attack?**](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-unit42.html)
* [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research")
* [Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/ "Threat Research")
* [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/malware/ "Malware")  
  [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/malware/)

# Examining a VBA-Initiated Infostealer Campaign

![Clock Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-clock.svg) 7 min read

* ![Profile Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-profile-grey.svg)  
  By:
  
  * [Vicky Ray](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/author/vicky-khan/)
  * [Rob Downs](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/author/rob-downs/)

* ![Published Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-calendar-grey.svg)  
  Published:October 29, 2014

* ![Tags Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-category.svg)  
  Categories:
  
  * [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/malware/)
  * [Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/)

* ![Tags Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-tags-grey.svg)  
  Tags:
  
  * [Enterprise security platform](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/enterprise-security-platform/)
  * [Infostealer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/infostealer/)
  * [Limitless](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/limitless/)
  * [Visual Basic for Applications](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/visual-basic-for-applications/)

* [![Download Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-download.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/examining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign/?pdf=download&lg=en&_wpnonce=f6e4b1f2e6 "Click here to download")

* [![Print Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-print.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/examining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign/?pdf=print&lg=en&_wpnonce=f6e4b1f2e6 "Click here to print")

Share![Down arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/down-arrow.svg)

* ![Link Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-share-link.svg)
* [![Link Email](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-sms.svg)](mailto:?subject=Examining%20a%20VBA-Initiated%20Infostealer%20Campaign&body=Check%20out%20this%20article%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F "Share in email")
* [![Facebook Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-fb-share.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/sharer/sharer.php?u=https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F "Share in Facebook")
* [![LinkedIn Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-linkedin-share.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/sharing/share-offsite/?url=https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F&title=Examining%20a%20VBA-Initiated%20Infostealer%20Campaign "Share in LinkedIn")
* [![Twitter Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-twitter-share.svg)](https://twitter.com/intent/tweet?url=https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F&text=Examining%20a%20VBA-Initiated%20Infostealer%20Campaign "Share in Twitter")
* [![Reddit Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-reddit-share.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com//www.reddit.com/submit?url=https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F&ts=markdown "Share in Reddit")
* [![Mastodon Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-mastodon-share.svg)](https://mastodon.social/share?text=Examining%20a%20VBA-Initiated%20Infostealer%20Campaign%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fexamining-vba-initiated-infostealer-campaign%2F "Share in Mastodon")
  While Microsoft documents that leverage malicious, embedded Visual Basic for Applications (VBA) macros are not a new thing, their use has [noticeably increased](https://www.virusbtn.com/virusbulletin/archive/2014/07/vb201407-VBA) this year, thanks in part to their [simplicity and effectiveness](https://nakedsecurity.sophos.com/2014/09/17/vba-injectors/).

Some threat actors commonly use this class of malware to drop a second stage payload on victim systems. Even though Microsoft attempts to mitigate this threat by disabling macros by default, the percentage of users who explicitly bypass this protection and enable macros remains high.

Exploiting the human factor, the most effective attacker strategy is the tried and true spear phishing attack, ideally made to look authentic by appearing to originate from a legitimate organization/individual and containing role-relevant or topic-of-interest content to entice its intended target. This post examines an information stealer campaign that leveraged a VBA macro script, focusing on its progression, from delivery to Command and Control (C2), and its attribution to a malicious actor for context on objectives and motivation.

### Delivery and Exploitation

The recent campaign started with an email sent to an employee responsible for processing financial statements at a global financial organization (Figure 1). The sender's email address was spoofed as originating from an energy company. Subsequent analysis would show that this façade was very thin; yet, it is often all that is required to encourage a user to open an attachment or click on a link that then executes malicious code.

![image 1](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-1-500x217.png)

Figure 1: Delivery of a phishing message containing malicious DOC file

The above e-mail employs common pressure tactics for phishing messages. Specifically, it touches on two areas of potential concern for a target: financial responsibility and the introduction of a state of uncertainty and confusion. In this case, the role of the target as a processor of financial statements might mean that the target is accustomed to receiving similarly structured legitimate e-mails; accordingly, they may open a malicious attachment without a second thought.

The second factor is much broader and relates to how humans deal with uncertainty. Without specific awareness and training, some users may be inclined to open the attachment, wondering why the e-mail was sent to them. In psychology, this is referred to as the ["Need for Closure" personality trap](https://gbr.pepperdine.edu/2010/08/the-root-causes-of-unethical-behavior/).

The next layer of this attack is found within the malicious DOC file once a victim opens it. With a system properly configured to protect against automatic execution of VBA macros, no malicious code has been run at this point. Figure 2 presents a screenshot of the malicious attachment's displayed contents.

![image 2](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-2-500x315.png)

Figure 2: Displayed contents of malicious DOC file, TTAdvise.doc

This content further compounds the two points of concern for the target, and now presents a convenient option of clicking on "Enable Content" to obtain closure on the matter. Despite a security warning (Figure 3), a number of users still choose to enable respective content, allowing for malicious VBA macros to run on their system.

![image 3](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-3-500x276.png)

Figure 3: Often ignored Microsoft security warning against enabling macro content

After enabling macros, none of the promised data is shown to the victim; however, the malicious VBA macro script executes in the background without the user's knowledge.

### VBA Macro Script

The embedded VBA macro script is shown in Figure 4.

![image 4](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-4-500x468.png)

Figure 4: Embedded VBA macro script

This script operates as a downloader, pulling a second stage payload from the following URL (Note: at the time of this post, the referenced domain was no longer active):

*hxxp://icqap.com/oludouble.exe*

### Installation and Persistence

Static analysis of the "oludouble.exe" binary is summarized in Figure 5.

![image 5](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-5-500x375.png)

Figure 5: Static analysis of downloaded second stage malware, oludouble.exe

Once executed, "oludouble.exe" drops two executables (Windows XP paths furnished):

* C:\\Documents and Settings\\Administrator\\Desktop\\exchangepre.exe
* C:\\Documents and Settings\\Administrator\\Application Data\\Windows Update.exe

Both binaries are exact copies (Figure 6).

![image 6](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-6.png)

Figure 6: Files dropped from second stage malware, oludouble.exe

The second stage malware also copies itself to the following directory (Windows XP) and deletes its original file:

*C:\\Documents and Settings\\Administrator\\Application Data\\Temp.exe*

Persistence (enabling the malware to reload after reboot and restart) is achieved through addition of the following registry key, set to the path for the "Windows Update.exe" binary (Figure 7):

*HKCU\\Software\\Microsoft\\Windows\\CurrentVersion\\Run\\Windows Update*

![image 7](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-7-500x86.png)

Figure 7: Windows registry modification for persistence

### Malware Capabilities

API Calls extracted from "Windows Update.exe" (**b6275be58a539ea9548d02ab6229c768**) hints at associated capabilities (Figure 8).

![image 8](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-8-500x452.png)

Figure 8: API calls found in "Windows Update.exe" binary

Based on these API calls, the malware appears to support enumeration of a variety of system information. Additionally, the use of "GetAsyncKeyState", which obtains key press status, could be indicative of keylogging capabilities.

Further investigation and research revealed that this malware leverages the Predator Pain keylogger, a favorite tool of this threat actor. Overall, this malware functions as an information stealer (Infostealer), including capture and exfiltration of the following types of information:

* Website credentials
* Financial information
* Chat session contents
* Email contents

### Command and Control (C2)

Once installed, this malware determines its Internet-facing IP address and then establishes a connection with the following domains:

* whatismyipaddress.com
* www.myip.ru
* mail\[.\]rivardxteriaspte.co\[.\]uk
* ftp\[.\]rivardxteriaspte.co\[.\]uk

The first two domains are legitimate public IP verification services. The latter two are C2 servers run by the malicious actor, which use SMTP and FTP communications, respectively.

### Attribution

E-mail headers are a valuable source of intelligence when investigating these types of attacks (Figure 9).

![image 9](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-9-500x340.png)

Figure 9: E-mail headers for phishing message

In this example, when the victim opened the phishing message, it appeared to originate from a legitimate organization. However, closer inspection revealed that the sender address was spoofed through the 'X-Env-Sender' header. In an attempt to slide past cursory examination, the malicious actor used an open mail relay, server\[.\]edm.sg. Another important e-mail header field for this message is 'Reply-To', which contains a valid e-mail for this malicious actor:

*cimaskozy(at)yahoo.com*

Setting the 'Reply-To' email header field to a valid address is another common threat actor tactic. It supports elicitation activities by that actor should a target respond to the message (i.e., further social engineering). Yet, this technique should also present a red flag to a user, as the initial façade of the originating e-mail address is removed at that point.

Research on the above email address reveals that this actor has been active in the cybercrime underground since at least 2010. Specifically, this actor goes by the handle "Skozzy" and is a known carder, seller of compromised credit card information, and facilitator of related services. Accordingly, we categorize "Skozzy" as primarily a cybercrime actor motivated by financial gain, although roles across nation state, cybercrime, hacktivist and ankle-biter/script kiddies are not mutually exclusive and -- in fact -- continue to become fuzzier over time.

Figure 10 is a screenshot of a YouTube post by "Skozzy" (skozzy11) from 2010.

![image 10](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-10-500x323.png)

Figure 10: YouTube post from "Skozzy", 2010

Figure 11 is a screenshot from a Pastebin post, also from 2010.

![image 11](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-11-500x136.png)

Figure 11: Pastebin post from "Skozzy", 2010

"Skozzy" is also active on HackForums\[.\]net and has shared thoughts and experiences related to keylogging tools like Limitless Logger and Predator Pain (Figure 12). Of particular note, the infostealer/keylogger tools that "Skozzy" prefers are able to steal much more than what has been observed so far for this actor.

![image 12](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-12-500x250.png)

Figure 12: Posts on HackForums\[.\]net regarding keyloggers

"Skozzy" also shares that Predator Pain is a preferred tool, as it offers great support (Figure 13).

![image 13](http://blog.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2014/10/image-13-500x139.png)

Figure 13: "Skozzy" prefers the Predator Pain keylogger

Deeper analysis and correlation across domains and samples that we believe related to this threat actor will be covered in subsequent blog content.

### Conclusion

This case epitomizes how easy it has become these days to steal sensitive information from victims who fall prey to such campaigns. Associated tools can be bought online for less than $100, which often also includes support packages that rival those of mainstream commercial software.

Stolen information can be used for more than standard credit card fraud. The crossover between malicious actor objectives may include opportunistic aspects of cyber espionage, extortion, identity theft, intellectual capital theft, and much more. It is also important to note that none of the major anti-virus (AV) vendors detected this threat at the time it was delivered. The natural gap between creation of these threats and a corresponding signature for their detection by traditional AV remains a sweet spot for successful malicious campaigns. Therefore, it is increasingly important to properly architect and deploy network and endpoint protections to ensure thorough and effective defense of computing and information assets.

The Palo Alto Networks Enterprise Security Platform is a prime example of technology meant to address and minimize the risk associated with emerging threats. Learn more about the platform [here](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/platforms.html).

Back to top

### Tags

* [Enterprise security platform](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/enterprise-security-platform/ "enterprise security platform")
* [Infostealer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/infostealer/ "Infostealer")
* [Limitless](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/limitless/ "Limitless")
* [Visual Basic for Applications](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/visual-basic-for-applications/ "Visual Basic for Applications")  
  [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research") [Next: Dridex Banking Trojan Distributed Through Word Documents](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/dridex-banking-trojan-distributed-word-documents/ "Dridex Banking Trojan Distributed Through Word Documents")

### Related Articles

* [OpenClaw's Skill Marketplace and the Emerging AI Supply Chain Threat](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/openclaw-ai-supply-chain-risk/ "article - table of contents")
* [That AI Extension Helping You Write Emails? It's Reading Them First](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/high-risk-gen-ai-browser-extensions/ "article - table of contents")
* [Weaponizing the Protectors: TeamPCP's Multi-Stage Supply Chain Attack on Security Infrastructure](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/teampcp-supply-chain-attacks/ "article - table of contents")

## Related Malware Resources

![Pictorial representation of post-exploitation identity misuse in SPIFFE/SPIRE. Close-up of a person wearing glasses, with computer code reflected in the lenses.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/12_Security-Technology_Category_1920x900-786x368.jpg)  
[![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) September 10, 2026 [#### The Machine With Many Faces: Post-Exploitation Identity Misuse in SPIFFE/SPIRE](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/kubernetes-spiffe-spire-identity-spoofing/)

* [API](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/api/ "API")

* [Cryptographic](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cryptographic/ "cryptographic")

* [JSON](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/json/ "JSON")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/kubernetes-spiffe-spire-identity-spoofing/ "The Machine With Many Faces: Post-Exploitation Identity Misuse in SPIFFE/SPIRE")  
  ![Pictorial representation of a pay-per-install threat group campaign prodiving infection service for spreading malware. A close-up of a computer circuit board with a central microchip is depicted. Red digital data streams in the form of glowing binary numbers and arrows appear to flow in and out of the chip, symbolizing data processing and transfer. The scene is illuminated with a futuristic blue and red glow.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/04_Malware_Category_1920x900-6-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) September 9, 2026 [#### Untracked Nightmares: The Threats Hiding Behind Commodity Infrastructure](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ppi-network-malware-campaign-analysis/)

* [ARKTunnel](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/arktunnel/ "ARKTunnel")

* [C2](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/c2/ "C2")

* [CL-CRI-1171](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cl-cri-1171/ "CL-CRI-1171")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ppi-network-malware-campaign-analysis/ "Untracked Nightmares: The Threats Hiding Behind Commodity Infrastructure")  
  ![Pictorial representation of attackers using AI tools to target Latin American organizations. A vibrant cityscape with silhouettes of numerous people walking along a bustling street. The scene is illuminated by bright urban lights and digital-like particles, creating a dynamic and futuristic atmosphere.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AdobeStock_768915868-2-1-786x373.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) September 3, 2026 [#### Attackers Expose Ongoing AI Tool Use Targeting Organizations in Latin America](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-tool-use-targeting-latam-orgs/)

* [Agentic AI](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agentic-ai/ "Agentic AI")

* [ChatGPT](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/chatgpt/ "ChatGPT")

* [CL-CRI-1131](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cl-cri-1131/ "CL-CRI-1131")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-tool-use-targeting-latam-orgs/ "Attackers Expose Ongoing AI Tool Use Targeting Organizations in Latin America")  
  ![Pictorial representation of vishing campaigns in Microsoft Teams. A digital image of a skull formed by blue binary code on a black background, with scattered ones and zeros and digital noise, symbolizes how stealthy prompt injection attacks can exploit AI logic to bypass security controls.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/01_Malware_Category_1920x900-5-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 31, 2026 [#### Spring Ring: An Inside Look at Voice Phishing Campaigns in Microsoft Teams](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/spring-ring-voice-phishing-campaigns/)

* [Cloaked Ursa](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cloaked-ursa/ "Cloaked Ursa")

* [Entra ID](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/entra-id/ "Entra ID")

* [Microsoft Teams](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/microsoft-teams/ "Microsoft Teams")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/spring-ring-voice-phishing-campaigns/ "Spring Ring: An Inside Look at Voice Phishing Campaigns in Microsoft Teams")  
  ![Pictorial representation of AI-enabled malware. A vibrant digital interface displaying various icons and graphs, resembling a futuristic network or data analysis dashboard. The scene is illuminated with glowing lights and patterns.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AdobeStock_1270203474-2-1-786x368.png)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 25, 2026 [#### The State of AI-Enabled Malware August 2026: From Brand Abuse to Agentic Execution](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-enabled-malware-analysis/)

* [Backdoor](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/backdoor/ "backdoor")

* [Bitcoin](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/bitcoin/ "Bitcoin")

* [DLL hijacking](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/dll-hijacking/ "DLL hijacking")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-enabled-malware-analysis/ "The State of AI-Enabled Malware August 2026: From Brand Abuse to Agentic Execution")  
  ![Pictorial representation of identity abuse through trusted communication channels. Close-up view of a digital screen displaying a glitched and pixelated image of a skull-like shape.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/02_Malware_Category_1920x900-2-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 20, 2026 [#### Identity Abuse Through Trusted Communication Channels](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/communication-channel-identity-risks/)

* [Authentication](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/authentication/ "authentication")

* [Identity theft](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/identity-theft/ "identity theft")

* [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/malware/ "malware")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/communication-channel-identity-risks/ "Identity Abuse Through Trusted Communication Channels")  
  ![Pictorial representation of Kimwolf botnet malware family. Digital screen with a warning sign reading "Malware." The background features lines of computer code and graphics, creating a sense of cybersecurity threat.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/07_Malware_Category_1920x900-3-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 11, 2026 [#### Kimwolf v7: An Evolution of the Kimwolf Botnet](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/kimwolf-v7-botnet-malware/)

* [Android APK](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/android-apk/ "Android APK")

* [Ethereum](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ethereum/ "Ethereum")

* [HTTP](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/http/ "HTTP")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/kimwolf-v7-botnet-malware/ "Kimwolf v7: An Evolution of the Kimwolf Botnet")  
  ![Pictorial representatiom pf Aeternum's blockchain C2. A close-up of a computer circuit board with a central microchip is depicted. Red digital data streams in the form of glowing binary numbers and arrows appear to flow in and out of the chip. The scene is illuminated with a futuristic blue and red glow.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/04_Malware_Category_1920x900-4-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 10, 2026 [#### The Permanent Threat: Analyzing Aeternum's Blockchain-Based C2 Operations and Communications](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/aeternum-blockchain-c2-analysis/)

* [Aeternum](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/aeternum/ "Aeternum")

* [Infection chain](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/infection-chain/ "infection chain")

* [JSON](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/json/ "JSON")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/aeternum-blockchain-c2-analysis/ "The Permanent Threat: Analyzing Aeternum’s Blockchain-Based C2 Operations and Communications")  
  ![Pictorial representation of ChainDrop, a self-propagating npm worm. An artistic depiction of a digital workspace featuring an open laptop with a red virus on the screen.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/03_Malware_Category_1920x900-7-786x368.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/top-threats.svg)High Profile Threats](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/top-cyberthreats/) August 6, 2026 [#### ChainDrop: Inside a Self-Propagating npm Worm](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/chaindrop-npm-worm-analysis/)

* [Blockchain](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/blockchain/ "blockchain")

* [ChainDrop](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/chaindrop/ "ChainDrop")

* [Claude code](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/claude-code/ "Claude code")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/chaindrop-npm-worm-analysis/ "ChainDrop: Inside a Self-Propagating npm Worm")  
  ![Pictorial representation of Token-jacking. A person types on a laptop with multiple digital interface elements projected, including an "AI" icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/08/AdobeStock_1246251272-2-786x369.jpg)  
  [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/icon-threat-research.svg)Threat Research](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/threat-research/) August 6, 2026 [#### Token Jacking: Cybercriminals Could Be Stealing Your AI Resources](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-token-jacking/)

* [AI API](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ai-api/ "AI API")

* [AI gateway](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ai-gateway/ "AI gateway")

* [API keys](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/api-keys/ "API keys")  
  [Read now ![Right arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-right-arrow-withtail.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-token-jacking/ "Token Jacking: Cybercriminals Could Be Stealing Your AI Resources")

* ![Slider arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/slider-arrow-left.svg)

* ![Slider arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/slider-arrow-left.svg)  
  ![Close button](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/close-modal.svg) ![Enlarged Image]()  
  ![Newsletter](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/03/unit42-footer-subscribe-desktop.png)  
  ![UNIT 42 Small Logo](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/palo-alto-logo-small.svg) Get updates from Unit 42

## Peace of mind comes from staying ahead of threats. Subscribe today.

Your Email

Subscribe for email updates to all Unit 42 threat research.  
By submitting this form, you agree to our [Terms of Use](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/terms-of-use "Terms of Use") and acknowledge our [Privacy Statement.](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/privacy "Privacy Statement")

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google [Privacy Policy](https://policies.google.com/privacy) and [Terms of Service](https://policies.google.com/terms) apply.

Invalid captcha!
Subscribe ![Right Arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/right-arrow.svg) ![loader](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-loader.svg)  
{#footer} Products and Services

* [AI-Powered Network Security Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security)

* [Secure AI by Design](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security)

* [Prisma AIRS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-security/prisma-airs)

* [AI Access Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/ai-access-security)

* [Cloud Delivered Security Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions)

* [Advanced Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-threat-prevention)

* [Advanced URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-url-filtering)

* [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire)

* [Advanced DNS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-dns-security)

* [Enterprise Data Loss Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention)

* [Enterprise IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/enterprise-device-security)

* [Medical IoT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/medical-device-security)

* [Industrial OT Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/ot-security-solution)

* [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security)

* [Next-Generation Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall)

* [Hardware Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/hardware-firewall-innovations)

* [Software Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/software-firewalls)

* [Strata Cloud Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/strata-cloud-manager)

* [SD-WAN for NGFW](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/sd-wan-subscription)

* [PAN-OS](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/pan-os)

* [Panorama](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/panorama)

* [Secure Access Service Edge](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase)

* [Prisma SASE](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase)

* [Application Acceleration](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/app-acceleration)

* [Autonomous Digital Experience Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/adem)

* [Enterprise DLP](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/enterprise-data-loss-prevention)

* [Prisma Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/access)

* [Prisma Browser](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/prisma-browser)

* [Prisma SD-WAN](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/sd-wan)

* [Remote Browser Isolation](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/remote-browser-isolation)

* [SaaS Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sase/saas-security)

* [AI-Driven Security Operations Platform](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex)

* [Cloud Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud)

* [Cortex Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud)

* [Application Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/application-security)

* [Cloud Posture Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/cloud-posture-security)

* [Cloud Runtime Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cloud/runtime-security)

* [Prisma Cloud](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/prisma/cloud)

* [AI-Driven SOC](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex)

* [Cortex XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsiam)

* [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr)

* [Cortex XSOAR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xsoar)

* [Cortex Xpanse](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xpanse)

* [Unit 42 Managed Detection \& Response](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-detection-and-response)

* [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam)

* [Next-Generation Identity Security](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira)

* [Privileged Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/privileged-access-management)

* [Identity and Access Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-and-access-management)

* [Endpoint Privilege Manager](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/endpoint-privilege-manager)

* [Identity Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/identity-governance)

* [Workforce Password Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/workforce-password-management)

* [Agentic Identities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/agentic)

* [Secrets Management](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/secrets-management)

* [Unified Secrets Governance](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/unified-secrets-governance)

* [Application Credentials Delivery](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/machine/application-credentials-delivery)

* [Vendor Privileged Access](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/idira/human/vendor-privileged-access)

* [Threat Intel and Incident Response Services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42)

* [Prepare for Emerging Risks](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/frontier-ai-defense)

* [Strengthen Your Defenses](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/strengthen-your-defenses)

* [Build Your Security Strategy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/build-your-security-strategy)

* [Understand the Adversary](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/threat-intelligence)

* [Respond to a Cyber Attack](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/unit42/respond)  
  Company

* [About Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us)

* [Careers](https://jobs.paloaltonetworks.com/en/)

* [Contact Us](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/contact-sales)

* [Corporate Responsibility](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/corporate-responsibility)

* [Customers](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/customers)

* [Investor Relations](https://investors.paloaltonetworks.com/)

* [Location](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/about-us/locations)

* [Newsroom](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/company/newsroom)  
  Popular Links

* [Blog](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/blog/)

* [Communities](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/communities)

* [Content Library](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/resources)

* [Cyberpedia](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cyberpedia)

* [Event Center](https://events.paloaltonetworks.com/)

* [Manage Email Preferences](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/preference-center)

* [Products A-Z](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/products-a-z)

* [Product Certifications](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center/certifications)

* [Report a Vulnerability](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/security-disclosure)

* [Sitemap](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/sitemap)

* [Tech Docs](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/)

* [Unit 42](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/)

* [Do Not Sell or Share My Personal Information](https://panwedd.exterro.net/portal/dsar.htm?target=panwedd)
  ![Palo Alto Networks Logo](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/pan-logo-dark.svg)

* [Privacy](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/privacy)

* [Trust Center](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/trust-center)

* [Terms of Use](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal-notices/terms-of-use)

* [Documents](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/legal)

Copyright © 2026 Palo Alto Networks. All Rights Reserved

* [![Youtube](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/youtube-black.svg)](https://www.youtube.com/user/paloaltonetworks)
* [![Podcast](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/content/dam/pan/en_US/images/icons/podcast.svg)](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/podcasts/threat-vector)
* [![Facebook](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/facebook-black.svg)](https://www.facebook.com/PaloAltoNetworks/)
* [![LinkedIn](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/linkedin-black.svg)](https://www.linkedin.com/company/palo-alto-networks)
* [![Twitter](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/etc/clientlibs/clean/imgs/social/twitter-x-black.svg)](https://twitter.com/PaloAltoNtwks)
* EN  
  Select your language  
  ![Play](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/player-play-icon.svg) ![Pause](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/player-pause-icon1.svg) ![Minimize](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-minimize.svg) ![Close button](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/close-modal.svg)

### Default Heading

Read the article ![Right Arrow](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/right-arrow.svg)  
Seekbar

![Play](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/player-play-icon.svg) ![Pause](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/player-pause-icon1.svg)  
![Volume](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-volume.svg)  
Volume
![Minimize](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-minimize.svg)