Security | Threat Detection | Cyberattacks | DevSecOps | Compliance

During the investigation of a large-scale cryptocurrency theft, with total losses significantly exceeding USD 1 million spread across multiple currencies, Kroll researchers discovered two new pieces of malware. These pieces of malware ultimately led to deployment of Havoc C2’s agent, “Demon.”

Beginning in early April 2025, Kroll has observed a large wave of malicious activity surrounding "PDFast" software. Initial access for the campaign appeared to begin either through a new install of the application, through drive-by compromise on the site pdf-fastcom, or via pre-installed versions of the application that have since been updated with a malicious version.

Kroll continues to observe widespread attempted initial access through CLEARFAKE via fake CAPTCHA pop-ups across a wide range of industry sectors. As detailed in previous Kroll reporting, CLEARFAKE is a malicious in-browser JavaScript framework deployed on compromised webpages as part of drive-by compromise campaigns. Although CLEARFAKE continues to show the same themes surrounding its use alongside fake CAPTCHA pop-ups, there are also a wide range of nuances that have appeared in the past few months.