The Lookout Threat Intelligence team has discovered a new mobile app threat targeting iOS and Android users in Chinese speaking countries, Korea and Japan. The spyware, which we have named Goontact, targets users of illicit sites, typically offering escort services, and steals personal information from their mobile device. The types of sites used to distribute these malicious apps and the information exfiltrated suggests that the ultimate goal is extortion or blackmail.

TL;DR: This blog contains some immediate guidance on using Splunk Core and Splunk Enterprise Security to protect (and detect activity on) your network from the Sunburst Backdoor malware delivered via SolarWinds Orion software. Splunk’s threat research team will release more guidance in the coming week. Also please note that you may see some malicious network activity but it may not mean your network is compromised. As always review carefully.

First identified in 2018, 'Ryuk' is a known malware often dropped on a system by other malware, most notably TrickBot and Bazaarloader by using a Spear Phishing lure or other systems access gains via Remote Desktop Services. Ryuk demands payment via Bitcoin cryptocurrency and directs victims to deposit the ransom in a specific Bitcoin wallet.

Our article provides an overview of the most common forms of computer viruses along with some punches of computer fun facts, history & interesting facts about computer viruses and other types of malware. A few weeks ago, we also published cyber security glossary, simplifying geeky terms for general readers.

IcedID stealer (Also known as BokBot) was first discovered at the end of 2017, believed to be a resurgence of the NeverQuest banking Trojan. It is a modular banking trojan that uses man-in-the-browser (MitB) attacks to steal banking credentials, payment card information and other financial data. The stealer possesses relatively sophisticated functionality and capabilities such as web injects, a large remote access trojan (RAT) arsenal and a VNC module for remote control.

The Lazarus Group (also known as Guardians of Peace or Whois) is a notorious cybercrime gang made up of unknown individuals. According to the United States Federal Bureau of Investigations, the group is a North Korean “state-sponsored hacking organization.” However, some believe that their connections to North Korea might be a false flag intending to hide their true origins.

Universal Health Services (UHS), a Fortune 500 company and healthcare services provider, has reportedly shut down systems at facilities throughout the United States after the Ryuk ransomware hit its network on September 27, according to an article on the Health IT Security website. What is Ryuk ransomware? Ryuk is a sophisticated ransomware threat that targets businesses, hospitals, and government institutions across the world.

Security researchers working with IBM Security recently uncovered a new malware code that is being used to attack online banking users in Brazil. Referred to as ‘Vizom’ by the team, the code utilizes remote overlay attacks to siphon sensitive financial data and make fraudulent transactions from victims bank accounts.

Ransomware is a serious security threat affecting companies of all sizes and industries. While the symptoms (an attack) can be extremely damaging and disruptive, the solution can be simple - proactive prevention through a heavy dose of security hygiene. Here we cover the basics of Ransomware and top tips for securing your organization against it.