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Complicate Analysis ![Clock Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-clock.svg) 6 min read Related Products [![Advanced DNS Security icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Advanced DNS Security](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/advanced-dns-security/ "Advanced DNS Security")[![Advanced URL Filtering icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Advanced URL Filtering](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/advanced-url-filtering/ "Advanced URL Filtering")[![Cloud-Delivered Security Services icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/06/strata_RGB_logo_Icon_Color.png)Cloud-Delivered Security Services](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/product-category/cloud-delivered-security-services/ "Cloud-Delivered Security Services")[![Cortex 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Khanzada](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/author/saqib-khanzada/) * ![Published Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-calendar-grey.svg) Published:April 16, 2025 * ![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: * [.NET](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/net/) * [Agent Tesla](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agent-tesla/) * [PowerShell](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/powershell/) * [RemcosRAT](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/remcosrat/) * [XLoader](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/xloader/) * [![Download 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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%2Fphishing-campaign-with-complex-attack-chain%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=Cascading%20Shadows:%20An%20Attack%20Chain%20Approach%20to%20Avoid%20Detection%20and%20Complicate%20Analysis%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fphishing-campaign-with-complex-attack-chain%2F "Share in Mastodon") ## Executive Summary In December 2024, we uncovered an attack chain that employs distinct, multi-layered stages to deliver malware like Agent Tesla variants, Remcos RAT or XLoader. Attackers increasingly rely on such complex delivery mechanisms to evade detection, bypass traditional sandboxes, and ensure successful payload delivery and execution. The phishing campaign we analyzed used deceptive emails posing as an order release request to deliver a malicious attachment. This multi-layered attack chain leverages multiple execution paths to evade detection and complicate analysis. Figure 1 below illustrates the attack chain used by this campaign. ![Diagram illustrating malware injection process via different types of files and scripts. It shows pathways starting from email attachments progressing through ZIP and RAR files to extracted VBS and PowerShell scripts, leading to either AutoIt or .NET compiled executables. These executables inject malware into running processes.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/F1.png) Figure 1. Attack chain used for this campaign. The campaign arrives to victims as emails with attached archives. These archives contain script-based malware that ultimately infects a host with the final malware. Our analysis demonstrates how we can track and mitigate threats that rely on multi-stage delivery mechanisms. Additionally, we highlight techniques for analyzing AutoIt-based malware and debugging shellcode to equip analysts with better threat-hunting capabilities. Despite this multi-layered approach used by the attackers, [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire) effectively detects each stage, ensuring our customers are better protected against such attacks. Additionally, Palo Alto Networks customers are better protected from the threats discussed above through the following products: * [Cloud-delivered security services](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/security-subscriptions) for the Next-Generation Firewall including [Advanced URL Filtering](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/advanced-url-filtering/administration) and [Advanced DNS Security](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/dns-security) * [Cortex XDR](https://docs-cortex.paloaltonetworks.com/p/XDR) and [XSIAM](https://docs-cortex.paloaltonetworks.com/p/XSIAM) If you think you might have been compromised or have an urgent matter, contact the [Unit 42 Incident Response team](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-unit42.html). | **Related Unit 42 Topics** | [**XLoader**](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/xloader/), **[Remcos RAT](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/remcosrat/)** | |----------------------------|---------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| ## Technical Analysis of Attack Chain ### **Delivery Through Fake Order Release Phishing Email** We focus this article on this particular attack chain due to its uncommon use of AutoIt compiled executables, which we observed exclusively in December 2024. This campaign has only been seen delivering the Agent Tesla variant. The phishing emails for this particular attack chain appear to be official communications falsely claiming that a payment had been made, urging the recipient to review an attached order file. The attachment, doc00290320092.7z, contains a JavaScript encoded (.jse) file. When executed, this .jse file initiates the infection chain. This script acts as a downloader, retrieving and executing a PowerShell script. Figure 2 shows an example of an email with the attachment. ![Email screenshot displaying a message header and an attachment of a ZIP file. The email body is in Croatian.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-400431-139386-2.png) Figure 2. Example of a phishing email for this attack chain. ### **Malicious Archive: Disguised Order Review Script** After opening the doc00290320092.7z attachment, a potential victim would find its content, a file named doc00290320092.jse. Notice that both the ZIP filename and the JSE filename start with doc, creating the illusion that the JSE file is a legitimate document. The JSE file is a simple downloader designed to retrieve and execute a PowerShell script from a remote server. Figure 3 shows that the script in the JSE file is not obfuscated, as this attack chain relies on a multi-layered approach rather than heavy obfuscation. ![Screenshot of a computer script in a text editor. A red box highlights the URL to download the next stage PS1. The code is white on a black background with no syntax highlighting.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-404588-139386-3.png) Figure 3. Content of the JSE file used in this attack chain. ### **PowerShell Delivering Encoded Payload** The PowerShell script is straightforward, containing a Base64-encoded payload that it decodes, writes to the temporary directory and executes. Figure 4 shows an example of the PowerShell script. ![Screenshot of a few lines of code with the payload.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/F8.png) Figure 4. Example of the PowerShell script with Base64-encoded payload. ### **Diverging Execution - .NET or AutoIt** Analyzing multiple PowerShell payloads from different emails revealed that the next-stage payload varies between two types of files. These droppers are either a .NET compiled executable or an AutoIt compiled executable. This suggests that the attacker employs multiple execution paths to increase resilience and evade detection. As seen in previous stages, the attacker's focus remains on a multi-layered attack chain rather than sophisticated obfuscation. #### **.NET Compiled Executable** The .NET file contains the next-stage payload, which is encrypted using either AES or Triple DES. Once decrypted, the payload is injected into a running RegAsm.exe process. We observed similarity across multiple .NET samples from this attack chain. Figure 5 below highlights these similarities by showing two different .NET samples in [dnSpy](https://github.com/dnSpy/dnSpy), revealing the injection into a RegAsm.exe process, reinforcing the multi-layered approach employed by the attacker. ![Screenshot of a software interface displaying code analysis of two side by side code blocks, highlighting sections titled 'Injecting payload in RegAsm.exe' on the top and and 'Identical Functions' on the bottom with various functions and lines of code visible in different panels.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-413393-139386-5.png) Figure 5. Comparison of .NET droppers and RegAsm process injection. The two .NET samples shown in Figure 4 load different malware families. The first sample injects a variant of AgentTelsa, possibly Snake keylogger, into a RegAsm.exe process. The second sample follows a similar injection technique but delivers XLoader. #### **AutoIt Compiled Executable** ​​The AutoIt compiled executable introduces an additional option to the attack chain, further complicating detection and analysis. The AutoIt script within the executable contains an encrypted payload that loads the shellcode for the final malware stage. This ultimately results in the injection of a .NET file into a RegSvcs process, which in turn loads an Agent Tesla variant. Figure 6 shows an example of the AutoIt script within the AutoIt compiled executable. It also contains the decrypted payload revealing shellcode designed to decrypt and inject the final malware. ![Screenshot collage. On the left is the extracted AutoIt as analyzed by WildFire and the encrypted payload. On the right is the shellcode to decrypt and load the payload.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-418079-139386-6.png) Figure 6. AutoIt script extracted by WildFire. ##### AutoIt Dropper Analysis in IDA Pro We debugged the AutoIt executable in IDA Pro to explore the debugging methods used by this AutoIt-based malware. ​​One of the key functions in AutoIt for tracing shellcode execution is DLLCALLADDRESS. To locate the function responsible for handling DLLCALLADDRESS, we can search for text cross-referencing the DLLCALLADDRESS string. The only reference appears in a function that builds the lookup table. Analyzing this function reveals that a pointer to the DLLCALLADDRESS string is moved to the memory address 0x493684, while a function pointer is moved at 0x493684+0xC as shown below in Figure 7. ![Screenshot of a computer screen displaying assembly language code in a debugging software with highlighted text indicating changes in function pointers. On the top highlighted in a red box is the PTR to function moved at 0x493690. On the bottom is the PTR to DLLCALLADDRESS moved to 0x493684.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-422862-139386-7.png) Figure 7. Pointer to the DLLCALLADDRESS function shown in IDA Pro. Tracing this further, a few functions down the call chain, we reach the function responsible for executing the shellcode as illustrated in Figure 8. ![Diagram showing the flow and linking of various software functions and pointers, including the pointer named 'DLLCALLADDRESS' and 'call\_address\_function' for the shellcode. Lines and arrows indicate the relationships and directions between the functions.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2025/04/word-image-427987-139386-8.png) Figure 8. Functional flow chart showing where Call\_address\_function calls the shellcode. The dynamically resolved API calls in the shellcode indicate a straightforward execution flow. The shellcode follows a common pattern. It first loads the encrypted payload into memory, decrypts it and finally injects it into a RegSvcs process. The injected payload then reflectively loads another .NET compiled executable, which ultimately executes an Agent Tesla variant packed with .NET Reactor. This final payload, an Agent Tesla variant, is a well-documented infostealer. ## Conclusion This analysis highlights how attackers increasingly rely on multi-layered delivery mechanisms and multiple execution paths to evade detection. By stacking simple stages instead of focusing on highly sophisticated techniques, attackers can create resilient attack chains that complicate analysis and detection. However, with its memory detection capabilities, [Advanced WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/advanced-wildfire) can detect and better protect its customers. Additionally, Palo Alto Networks customers are better protected from the threats discussed above through the following products: * [Advanced URL Filtering](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/advanced-url-filtering/administration) and [Advanced DNS Security](https://docs.paloaltonetworks.com/dns-security) identify known domains and URLs associated with this activity as malicious. * [Cortex XDR](https://docs-cortex.paloaltonetworks.com/p/XDR) and [XSIAM](https://docs-cortex.paloaltonetworks.com/p/XSIAM) are designed to: * Prevent the execution of known malicious malware, and also prevent the execution of unknown malware using Behavioral Threat Protection and machine learning based on the Local Analysis module. * Protect against credential gathering tools and techniques using the new Credential Gathering Protection available from Cortex XDR 3.4. * Detect post-exploit activity with behavioral analytics through Cortex XDR Pro. If you think you may have been compromised or have an urgent matter, get in touch with the[Unit 42 Incident Response team](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/contact-unit42.html) or call: * North America: Toll Free: +1 (866) 486-4842 (866.4.UNIT42) * UK: +44.20.3743.3660 * Europe and Middle East: +31.20.299.3130 * Asia: +65.6983.8730 * Japan: +81.50.1790.0200 * Australia: +61.2.4062.7950 * India: 00080005045107 Palo Alto Networks has shared these findings with our fellow Cyber Threat Alliance (CTA) members. CTA members use this intelligence to rapidly deploy protections to their customers and to systematically disrupt malicious cyber actors. Learn more about the [Cyber Threat Alliance](https://www.cyberthreatalliance.org). ## Indicators of Compromise ### **AutoIt Infection Chain 1** * 00dda3183f4cf850a07f31c776d306438b7ea408e7fb0fc2f3bdd6866e362ac5 -- doc00290320092.7z * f4625b34ba131cafe5ac4081d3f1477838afc16fedc384aea4b785832bcdbfdd -- doc00290320092.jse * d616aa11ee05d48bb085be1c9bad938a83524e1d40b3f111fa2696924ac004b2 -- files.catbox\[.\]moe/rv94w8\[.\]ps1 * 550f191396c9c2cbf09784f60faab836d4d1796c39d053d0a379afaca05f8ee8 -- AutoIt compiled EXE for Agent Tesla variant ### **AutoIt Infection Chain 2** * 61466657b14313134049e0c6215266ac1bb1d4aa3c07894f369848b939692c49 -- doc00290320092.7z * 7fefb7a81a4c7d4a51a9618d9ef69e951604fa3d7b70d9a2728c971591c1af25 -- doc00290320092.jse * 8cdb70f9f1f38b8853dfad62d84618bb4f10acce41e9f0fddab422c2c253c994 -- files.catbox\[.\]moe/gj7umd.ps1 * c93e37e35c4c7f767a5bdab8341d8c2351edb769a41b0c9c229c592dbfe14ff2 -- AutoIt compiled EXE for Agent Tesla variant ### **Agent Tesla (Variant) Configuration** * FTP Server: ftp\[:\]//ftp.jeepcommerce\[.\]rs * FTP username: kel-bin@jeepcommerce\[.\]rs * FTP password: Jhrn)GcpiYQ7 ## Additional Resources * [Agent Tesla archives](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agenttesla/) -- Unit 42, Palo Alto Networks Back to top ### Tags * [.NET](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/net/ ".NET") * [Agent Tesla](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/agent-tesla/ "Agent Tesla") * [PowerShell](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/powershell/ "PowerShell") * [RemcosRAT](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/remcosrat/ "RemcosRAT") * [XLoader](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/xloader/ "XLoader") [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research") [Next: Slow Pisces Targets Developers With Coding Challenges and Introduces New Customized Python Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/slow-pisces-new-custom-malware/ "Slow Pisces Targets Developers With Coding Challenges and Introduces New Customized Python Malware") ### Table of Contents * ### Related Articles * [Spring Ring: An Inside Look at Voice Phishing Campaigns in Microsoft Teams](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/spring-ring-voice-phishing-campaigns/ "article - table of contents") * [Understanding Current Threats to Kubernetes Environments](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/modern-kubernetes-threats/ "article - table of contents") * [Threat Brief: Widespread Impact of the Axios Supply Chain Attack](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/axios-supply-chain-attack/ "article - table of contents") ## Related Malware Resources ![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. 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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") * ![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. 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