[![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/ransomware-threat-assessments/) * [Japanese](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ja/ransomware-threat-assessments/) * [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research") * [Trend Reports](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/trend-reports/ "Trend Reports") * [Ransomware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/ransomware/ "Ransomware") [Ransomware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/ransomware/) # Ransomware Threat Assessments: A Companion to the 2021 Unit 42 Ransomware Threat Report ![Clock Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-clock.svg) 30 min read * ![Profile Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-profile-grey.svg) By: * [Unit 42](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/author/unit42/) * ![Published Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-calendar-grey.svg) Published:March 17, 2021 * ![Tags Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-category.svg) Categories: * [High Profile Threats](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/top-cyberthreats/) * [Malware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/malware/) * [Ransomware](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/ransomware/) * [Trend Reports](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/category/trend-reports/) * ![Tags Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-tags-grey.svg) Tags: * [Defray777](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/defray777/) * [Dharma](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/dharma/) * [DoppelPaymer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/doppelpaymer/) * [GandCrab](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/gandcrab/) * [NetWalker](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/netwalker/) * [Phobos](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/phobos/) * [Ransomware threat report](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ransomware-threat-report/) * [REvil](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/revil/) * [Zeppelin](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/zeppelin/) * [![Download Icon](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/themes/unit42-v6/dist/images/icons/icon-download.svg)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ransomware-threat-assessments/?pdf=download&lg=en&_wpnonce=dc23a6ba65 "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/ransomware-threat-assessments/?pdf=print&lg=en&_wpnonce=dc23a6ba65 "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=Ransomware%20Threat%20Assessments:%20A%20Companion%20to%20the%202021%20Unit%2042%20Ransomware%20Threat%20Report&body=Check%20out%20this%20article%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%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%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%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%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%2F&title=Ransomware%20Threat%20Assessments:%20A%20Companion%20to%20the%202021%20Unit%2042%20Ransomware%20Threat%20Report "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%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%2F&text=Ransomware%20Threat%20Assessments:%20A%20Companion%20to%20the%202021%20Unit%2042%20Ransomware%20Threat%20Report "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%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%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=Ransomware%20Threat%20Assessments:%20A%20Companion%20to%20the%202021%20Unit%2042%20Ransomware%20Threat%20Report%20https%3A%2F%2Funit42.paloaltonetworks.com%2Fransomware-threat-assessments%2F "Share in Mastodon") ## *Threat Assessment: Zeppelin Ransomware* ### Executive Summary [Originally reported by BlackBerry Cylance](https://blogs.blackberry.com/en/2019/12/zeppelin-russian-ransomware-targets-high-profile-users-in-the-us-and-europe) in 2019, the Zeppelin ransomware family is a variant of the [VegaLocker/Buran](https://www.mcafee.com/blogs/other-blogs/mcafee-labs/buran-ransomware-the-evolution-of-vegalocker/) ransomware-as-a-service (RaaS) family -- named because the text "ZEPPELIN" is added to the encrypted file code. Zeppelin continues to have a strong presence in the ransomware threat landscape, with new campaigns emerging routinely. Although it is not on the level of Egregor, DoppelPaymer or Ryuk in terms of its sophistication, targeting or attack pattern, Zeppelin has proven itself to be a formidable and robust commodity malware variant in the RaaS realm. Although the earliest observed Zeppelin samples are from November 2019, the ransomware family is still very much in use by malicious actors. Unit 42 continues to track Zeppelin ransomware campaign activity in both its own telemetry data, and via open-source intelligence (OSINT). ### Zeppelin Ransomware Overview ![Conceptual image representing Zeppelin ransomware as part of the ransomware threat assessments companion to the 2021 Unit 42 Ransomware Threat Report.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/Ransomware-series-21-illustration_Zeppelin.png) Zeppelin is highly configurable, but maintains common methods for distribution and deployment found with many ransomware families today, including: * Phishing emails. * Microsoft Word document with malicious macros embedded. * PowerShell loaders. * Open ScreenConnect or VPN connections. * Malicious EXE files. * Malicious DLL files. ![Figure 1. Decoy document containing malicious macros delivering Zeppelin ransomware.](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/word-image-75.png) Figure 1. Decoy document containing malicious macros delivering Zeppelin ransomware. Additionally, Zeppelin is often distributed via compromised websites or temporary command and control (C2) infrastructures that are active only during distribution. Further complicating things, recent Zeppelin variants include a sleep function that lasts for 26 seconds in an attempt to bypass dynamic analysis engines and sandboxes. Zeppelin also notably includes functionality that checks the victim's country code to make sure it's not running in Russia, Ukraine, Belarus or Kazakhstan. Zeppelin has spared few industries in terms of targeting, but some of the hardest-hit industry verticals include real estate, healthcare, manufacturing, finance and high tech. Zeppelin's ransom notes vary widely from highly generic to specifically crafted notes related to the targeted organizations. In some cases, the actors behind Zeppelin target high-profile organizations within those same industry verticals. Average ransom payment for 2020 was $14,088, paid in Bitcoin. Zeppelin victims spanned several countries, with victims in the U.S., Canada, Bulgaria, Japan, South Korea, France and Taiwan. More information on Zeppelin victimology can be found in the [2021 Unit 42 Ransomware Threat Report](https://start.paloaltonetworks.com/unit-42-ransomware-threat-report). ![Figure 2. Ransom note with Personal ID (source: Juniper Threat Labs).](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/wp-content/uploads/2021/03/word-image-76.png) Figure 2. Ransom note with Personal ID (source: Juniper Threat Labs). ### Courses of Action This section documents relevant tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs) used with Zeppelin and maps them directly to Palo Alto Networks product(s) and service(s). It also further instructs customers on how to ensure their devices are configured correctly. |------------------------|------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------| | **Product / Service** | **Course of Action** | | **Initial Access, Defense Evasion, Execution, Discovery, Command and Control, Impact** || | **Spearphishing Attachment \[T1566.001\], Web Protocols \[T1071.001\], Obfuscated Files or Information \[T1027\], Windows Command Shell \[T1059.003\], Inhibit System Recovery \[T1490\], Modify Registry \[T1112\], File and Directory Discovery \[T1083\], Data Encrypted for Impact \[T1486\]** || | NGFW | Ensure application security policies exist when allowing traffic from an untrusted zone to a more trusted zone | | NGFW | Ensure 'Service setting of ANY' in a security policy allowing traffic does not exist | | NGFW | Ensure 'Security Policy' denying any/all traffic to/from IP addresses on Trusted Threat Intelligence Sources Exists | | NGFW | Set up File Blocking | | WildFire | Ensure that WildFire file size upload limits are maximized | | WildFire | Ensure forwarding is enabled for all applications and file types in WildFire file blocking profiles | | WildFire | Ensure a WildFire Analysis profile is enabled for all security policies | | WildFire | Ensure forwarding of decrypted content to WildFire is enabled | | WildFire | Ensure all WildFire session information settings are enabled | | WildFire | Ensure alerts are enabled for malicious files detected by WildFire | | WildFire | Ensure 'WildFire Update Schedule' is set to download and install updates every minute | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Ensure an anti-spyware profile is configured to block on all spyware severity levels, categories and threats | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Ensure DNS sinkholing is configured on all anti-spyware profiles in use | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Ensure passive DNS monitoring is set to enabled on all anti-spyware profiles in use | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Ensure a secure anti-spyware profile is applied to all security policies permitting traffic to the Internet | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Set up File Blocking | | Threat Prevention\*^†^\* | Ensure that antivirus profiles are set to block on all decoders except 'imap' and 'pop3' | | DNS Security\*^†^\* | Enable DNS Security in Anti-Spyware profile | | URL Filtering\*^†^\* | Ensure that PAN-DB URL Filtering is used | | URL Filtering\*^†^\* | Ensure that URL Filtering uses the action of 'block' or 'override' on the \ URL categories | | URL Filtering\*^†^\* | Ensure that access to every URL is logged | | URL Filtering\*^†^\* | Ensure all HTTP Header Logging options are enabled | | URL Filtering\*^†^\* | Ensure secure URL filtering is enabled for all security policies allowing traffic to the internet | | Cortex XDR | Enable Anti-Exploit Protection | | Cortex XDR | Enable Anti-Malware Protection | | Cortex XDR | Configure Behavioral Threat Protection under the Malware Security Profile | | Cortex XSOAR | Deploy XSOAR Playbook - Palo Alto Networks Endpoint Malware Investigation | | Cortex XSOAR | Deploy XSOAR Playbook - Ransomware Manual for incident response | ^*Table 1. Courses of Action for Zeppelin ransomware.*^^*†These capabilities are part of the NGFW security subscriptions service.*^ ### Conclusion Stable in its operation, straightforward to implement and effective in its impact, Zeppelin continues to operate globally. Unit 42 fully expects Zeppelin ransomware activity to continue for the foreseeable future. Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) associated with Zeppelin are available [here](https://github.com/pan-unit42/iocs), and have been published to the Unit 42 TAXII [feed](https://github.com/pan-unit42/iocs/tree/master/stix2-reports/report_json). Palo Alto Networks detects and prevents Zeppelin in the following ways: * [WildFire](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/secure-the-network/wildfire): All known samples are identified as malware. * [Cortex XDR](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/cortex-xdr) with: * Indicators for Zeppelin. * Anti-Ransomware Module to detect Zeppelin encryption behaviors. * Local Analysis detection for Zeppelin binaries. * [Next-Generation Firewalls](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/network-security/next-generation-firewall): DNS Signatures detect the known command and control (C2) domains, which are also categorized as malware in [URL Filtering](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/products/threat-detection-and-prevention/web-security). * [AutoFocus](https://www.paloaltonetworks.com/cortex/autofocus): Tracking related activity using the [Zeppelin](https://autofocus.paloaltonetworks.com/#/tag/Unit42.Zeppelin) tag. Additionally, campaign-centric Indicators of Compromise (IoCs) observed by Unit 42 associated with Zeppelin were published on the Unit 42 Twitter feed on Dec. 11, 2020 ([part one](https://twitter.com/Unit42_Intel/status/1337453869304045570) and [part two](https://twitter.com/Unit42_Intel/status/1337454124435185665)), and [Dec. 16, 2020](https://twitter.com/Unit42_Intel/status/1339352623372267520). ### Additional Resources * [Zeppelin: Russian Ransomware Targets High Profile Users in the U.S. and Europe](https://blogs.blackberry.com/en/2019/12/zeppelin-russian-ransomware-targets-high-profile-users-in-the-us-and-europe) * [Zeppelin Ransomware returns with a fresh wave of attacks](https://blogs.juniper.net/en-us/threat-research/zeppelin-ransomware-returns-with-a-fresh-wave-of-attacks) ***Continue Reading: [DoppelPaymer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ransomware-threat-assessments/4)*** ***[Back to Top](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ransomware-threat-assessments/)*** Back to top ### Tags * [Defray777](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/defray777/ "Defray777") * [Dharma](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/dharma/ "Dharma") * [DoppelPaymer](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/doppelpaymer/ "DoppelPaymer") * [GandCrab](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/gandcrab/ "GandCrab") * [NetWalker](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/netwalker/ "NetWalker") * [Phobos](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/phobos/ "Phobos") * [Ransomware threat report](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/ransomware-threat-report/ "ransomware threat report") * [REvil](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/revil/ "REvil") * [Zeppelin](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/tag/zeppelin/ "Zeppelin") [Threat Research Center](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com "Threat Research") [Next: Highlights from the 2021 Unit 42 Ransomware Threat Report](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ransomware-threat-report-highlights/ "Highlights from the 2021 Unit 42 Ransomware Threat Report") ### Table of Contents * ### Related Articles * [Unit 42 Ransomware and Extortion Report Highlights: Multi-Extortion Tactics Continue to Rise](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/multi-extortion-rise-ransomware-report/ "article - table of contents") * [Ransom Cartel Ransomware: A Possible Connection With REvil](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/ransom-cartel-ransomware/ "article - table of contents") * [Understanding REvil: REvil Threat Actors May Have Returned (Updated)](https://unit42.paloaltonetworks.com/revil-threat-actors/ "article - table of contents") ## Related 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. 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") * ![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/content/pan/en_US/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)