[![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) English * [English](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/malicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla/) * [Japanese](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ja/malicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla/) * [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/) # Harmful Help: Analyzing a Malicious Compiled HTML Help File Delivering Agent Tesla ![Clock Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-clock.svg) 4 min read Related Products [![Advanced Threat Prevention icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Advanced Threat Prevention](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/advanced-threat-prevention/ "Advanced Threat Prevention")[![Advanced WildFire icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Advanced WildFire](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/advanced-wildfire/ "Advanced WildFire")[![Cortex XDR icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/cortex_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Cortex XDR](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/cortex-xdr/ "Cortex XDR")[![Next-Generation Firewall icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Next-Generation Firewall](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/next-generation-firewall/ "Next-Generation Firewall") * ![Profile Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-profile-grey.svg) By: * [Tyler Halfpop](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/author/tyler-halfpop/) * ![Published Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-calendar-grey.svg) Published:May 12, 2022 * ![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: * [AgentTesla](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agenttesla/) * [Anti-analysis](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/anti-analysis/) * [![Download Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-download.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/malicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla/?pdf=download&lg=en&_wpnonce=7020f940f4 "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/malicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla/?pdf=print&lg=en&_wpnonce=7020f940f4 "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=Harmful%20Help:%20Analyzing%20a%20Malicious%20Compiled%20HTML%20Help%20File%20Delivering%20Agent%20Tesla&body=Check%20out%20this%20article%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%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%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%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%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%2F&title=Harmful%20Help:%20Analyzing%20a%20Malicious%20Compiled%20HTML%20Help%20File%20Delivering%20Agent%20Tesla "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%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%2F&text=Harmful%20Help:%20Analyzing%20a%20Malicious%20Compiled%20HTML%20Help%20File%20Delivering%20Agent%20Tesla "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%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%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=Harmful%20Help:%20Analyzing%20a%20Malicious%20Compiled%20HTML%20Help%20File%20Delivering%20Agent%20Tesla%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fmalicious-compiled-html-help-file-agent-tesla%2F "Share in Mastodon") ## Executive Summary This blog describes an attack that Unit 42 observed utilizing malicious compiled HTML help files for the initial delivery. We will show how to analyze the malicious compiled HTML help file. We will then follow the chain of attack through JavaScript and multiple stages of PowerShell and show how to analyze them up to the final payload. The attack is interesting because attackers are often looking for creative ways to deliver their payloads. Their purpose in doing so is twofold: * An attempt to bypass security products. * An attempt to bypass security training. Potential victims may have been trained to avoid documents, scripts and executables from unknown senders, but it is important to be careful of almost any filetype. This particular attack chain delivered Agent Tesla as the final payload. Agent Tesla is well-known malware that has been around for a while. Agent Tesla focuses on stealing sensitive information from a victim's computer and sending that information to the attacker over FTP, SMTP or HTTP. It does this primarily via keystroke logging, screen capturing, camera recording and accessing sensitive data. Palo Alto Networks customers are protected from malware families using similar anti-analysis techniques with Cortex XDR or the Next-Generation Firewall with WildFire and Threat Prevention security subscriptions. |------------------------|-----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | Related Unit 42 Topics | [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/malware-2/), [Agent Tesla](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agenttesla/), [anti-analysis](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/anti-analysis/) | ## Malicious Compiled HTML Help File The initial attack sent a 7zip compressed file named ORDER OF CONTRACT-pdf.7z, which contained the single malicious compiled HTML help file ORDER OF CONTRACT-pdf.chm (SHA256: 081fd54d8d4731bbea9a2588ca53672feef0b835dc9fa9855b020a352819feaa). When the victim opens the help file, this apparently innocuous window displays. ![When a victim opens the malicious HTML help file, this apparently innocuous window displays.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-25.png) Figure 1. Decoy HTML help window. The help file can be extracted using 7zip to view the contents. The interesting file is the kkjhk.htm file, which displays the decoy window and executes the code. ![The compiled HTML help file can be extracted using 7zip to view the contents. The interesting file is the kkjhk.htm file, which displays the decoy window and executes the code.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-26.png) Figure 2. The help file contents. The file contains obfuscated JavaScript that is executed when the file is opened. ![Obfuscated JavaScript code in kkjhk.htm.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-27.png) Figure 3. Obfuscated JavaScript code in kkjhk.htm. We can deobfuscate this code by opening the file in Chrome and using the Chrome Developer Tools. The code above shows that the result that is returned is stored in the r variable. We can use the JavaScript debugger in Chrome Developer Tools to break on the return statement. After we have halted execution on our breakpoint we can then view the contents of the r variable and copy that for further analysis. ![After we have halted execution on our breakpoint we can then view the contents of the r variable and copy that for further analysis. The screenshot shows debugging kkjhk.htm in Chrome Developer Tools.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-28.png) Figure 4. Debugging kkjhk.htm in Chrome Developer Tools. The contents of the r variable show the HTML code to display the decoy message and a command to execute PowerShell. ![The contents of the r variable show the HTML code to display the decoy message and a command to execute PowerShell.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-29.png) Figure 5. Deobfuscated contents of kkjhk.htm. ## Initial PowerShell The obfuscated PowerShell code is executed in the background when the file is opened. ![The obfuscated PowerShell code is executed in the background when the file is opened.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-30.png) Figure 6. Initial obfuscated PowerShell. We can deobfuscate this code so that we can read it more easily by removing the final obfuscated Invoke-Expression cmdlet (I`E`X()). Attackers often insert backticks into sensitive commands like this to avoid simple string recognition because PowerShell ignores these characters. We can then see that the sample utilizes the PowerShell Test-Connection cmdlet to ping Google to verify connectivity before continuing. The sample then downloads and executes code from http://pk-consult\[.\]hr/N2.jpg. ![We can deobfuscate this code so that we can read it more easily by removing the final obfuscated Invoke-Expression cmdlet (I`E`X()).](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-31.png) Figure 7. Deobfuscated initial PowerShell. ## Second Stage The downloaded content is not actually a jpeg, but rather further PowerShell code that is executed. We can see below that it decompresses and loads several byte arrays in memory. ![The downloaded content is not actually a jpeg, but rather further PowerShell code that is executed. We can see here that it decompresses and loads several byte arrays in memory.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-32.png) Figure 8. Second stage. We can modify the sample simply to output the byte arrays to files by commenting out the execution and writing them to files. ![We can modify the sample simply to output the byte arrays to files by commenting out the execution and writing them to files, as shown.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2022/05/word-image-33.png) Figure 9. Writing byte arrays to files. ## Final Agent Tesla Payload We are left with a loader DLL in $decompressedByteArray (SHA256: 0fd2e47d373e07488748ac63d9229fdef4fd83d51cf6da79a10628765956de7a) and a gzip compressed Agent Tesla in $vhRo (SHA256: c684f1a6ec49214eba61175303bcaacb91dc0eba75abd0bd0e2407f3e65bce2a). The loader DLL loads Agent Tesla into the RegAsm.exe process to execute. This Agent Tesla sample uses FTP and connects to ftp.videoalliance\[.\]ru for data exfiltration. ## Conclusion Malicious actors are often looking for creative or different ways to deliver their malicious payloads. Microsoft Compiled HTML files are another file format that can be abused by malicious actors in addition to the more common document or script delivery methods used. It is important to make sure that users are trained to be careful of any attachments, especially from unknown senders. Palo Alto Networks customers are protected from malware families using similar anti-analysis techniques with [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr) or the [Next-Generation Firewall](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall) with [WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/secure-the-network/wildfire) and [Threat Prevention](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/threat-prevention) cloud-delivered security subscriptions. ## Indicators of Compromise 3446ec621506d87d372c596e1d384d9fd2c1637b3655d7ccadf5d9f64678681e ORDER OF CONTRACT-pdf.7z 081fd54d8d4731bbea9a2588ca53672feef0b835dc9fa9855b020a352819feaa ORDER OF CONTRACT-pdf.chm 9ba024231d4aed094757324d8c65c35d605a51cdc1e18ae570f1b059085c2454 N2.jpg 0fd2e47d373e07488748ac63d9229fdef4fd83d51cf6da79a10628765956de7a GC.dll c684f1a6ec49214eba61175303bcaacb91dc0eba75abd0bd0e2407f3e65bce2a Agent Tesla dotNet executable hxxp://pk-consult\[.\]hr/N2.jpg ftp.videoalliance\[.\]ru Back to top ### Tags * [AgentTesla](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agenttesla/ "AgentTesla") * [Anti-analysis](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/anti-analysis/ "anti-analysis") [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research") [Next: Threat Brief: CVE-2022-1388](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/cve-2022-1388/ "Threat Brief: CVE-2022-1388") ### Table of Contents * ### Related Articles * [New Infection Chain and ConfuserEx-Based Obfuscation for DarkCloud Stealer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/new-darkcloud-stealer-infection-chain/ "article - table of contents") * [Evolving Tactics of SLOW#TEMPEST: A Deep Dive Into Advanced Malware Techniques](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/slow-tempest-malware-obfuscation/ "article - table of contents") * [Uncovering .NET Malware Obfuscated by Encryption and Virtualization](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/malware-obfuscation-techniques/ "article - table of contents") ## Related Malware Resources ![Pictorial representation of TLS Certificate compromise. A person typing on a laptop with digital graphics of binary code and light beams emanating from the screen, representing data transfer or cyber activity.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/07_Security-Technology_Category_1920x900-1-786x368.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/) October 22, 2026 [#### EMudhra Intermediate CA Certificates Compromised](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/emudhra-certificate-compromise/) * [Certificates](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/certificates/ "certificates") * [Compromise](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/compromise/ "Compromise") * [Cryptographic](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cryptographic/ "cryptographic") [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/emudhra-certificate-compromise/ "EMudhra Intermediate CA Certificates Compromised") ![](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/AdobeStock_1246251272-2-1-786x369.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/) October 21, 2026 [#### "Next Exploit Opportunities": How a Threat Actor Used AI to Help Plan and Execute Multiple Types of Cybercrime Activities](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-assisted-cybercrime-analysis/) * [API](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/api/ "API") * [Data exfiltration](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/data-exfiltration/ "data exfiltration") * [DeepSeek](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/deepseek/ "DeepSeek") [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-assisted-cybercrime-analysis/ "“Next Exploit Opportunities”: How a Threat Actor Used AI to Help Plan and Execute Multiple Types of Cybercrime Activities") ![Pictorial representation of AI-powered campaign targeting government infrastructure. A glowing, blue, brain-shaped structure floats above a central microchip on a circuit board. The scene is futuristic, with neon lights illuminating the interconnected pathways and components.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/AdobeStock_637057734-786x368.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/) October 15, 2026 [#### AI-Powered Espionage Campaign Targets Government Linux Infrastructure](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ai-campaign-targets-linux-infrastructure/) * [Exfiltration](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/exfiltration/ "exfiltration") * [LLM](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/llm/ "LLM") * [Network security](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/network-security/ "network security") [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-campaign-targets-linux-infrastructure/ "AI-Powered Espionage Campaign Targets Government Linux Infrastructure") ![Pictorial representation of PEERSTITCH, a FortiGate implant. A digital illustration depicting a circuit board with a prominent red warning triangle and exclamation mark in the center. The background is filled with various computer circuitry patterns.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/10/09_Vulnerabilities_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/) October 14, 2026 [#### Unit 42 Uncovers PEERSTITCH, a Stealthy FortiGate Implant](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/fortimanager-cve-2024-47575-peerstitch-malware/) * [Apache](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/apache/ "Apache") * [CL-STA-0954](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/cl-sta-0954/ "CL-STA-0954") * [Logging](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/logging/ "logging") [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/fortimanager-cve-2024-47575-peerstitch-malware/ "Unit 42 Uncovers PEERSTITCH, a Stealthy FortiGate Implant") ![Pictorial representation of operation blinder tunnel. Screen displaying code with a prominent alert symbol and the words 'VIRUS DETECTED' highlighted in red.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/05_Malware_Category_1920x900-1-786x368.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/) October 6, 2026 [#### Blinder Tunnel Campaign Targets Iraqi Infrastructure](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/blinder-tunnel-targets-critical-infrastructure/) * [Advanced Persistent Threat](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/advanced-persistent-threat/ "Advanced Persistent Threat") * [Agent Serpens](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agent-serpens/ "Agent Serpens") * [AppDomainManager](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/appdomainmanager/ "AppDomainManager") [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/blinder-tunnel-targets-critical-infrastructure/ "Blinder Tunnel Campaign Targets Iraqi Infrastructure") ![Pictorial representation of how K8 operators betray your security posture. A close-up of a futuristic microchip with glowing circuits in vibrant colors, including blue, purple, and orange, reflecting light.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/AdobeStock_652069707-1-786x368.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 29, 2026 [#### OperTraitors: How Kubernetes Operators Betray Your Security Posture](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/agentic-ai-kubernetes-operator-risks/) * [AI](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ai/ "AI") * [AI agents](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ai-agents/ "AI agents") * [API](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/api/ "API") [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/agentic-ai-kubernetes-operator-risks/ "OperTraitors: How Kubernetes Operators Betray Your Security Posture") ![Pictorial representation of a magnifying glass illuminating a glowing orange circular digital circuit interface on a dark, high-tech background.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2026/09/04_Myth-Busting_Overview_1920x900-786x368.jpg) [![category icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/08/Insights-icon-white.svg)Insights](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/insights/) September 16, 2026 [#### Atomic macOS (AMOS) Stealer Activity](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/atomic-macos-amos-stealer-activity/) * [MacOS](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/macos/ "macOS") * [Threat intelligence](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/threat-intelligence/ "threat intelligence") * [Unit 42](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/unit-42/ "Unit 42") [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/atomic-macos-amos-stealer-activity/ "Atomic macOS (AMOS) Stealer Activity") ![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") * ![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/unit42/respond/managed-detection-response) * [Managed XSIAM](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/managed-xsiam) * Observability * [Cortex XCOR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/xcor) * [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/prepare-for-emerging-risks/continuous-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-subscribe.html) * [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)