Many people used to think that viruses and malware were only a problem on PCs and Microsoft Windows. Users of Linux and macOS devices thought they were safe.
If this was ever true, it’s not anymore. Today, infostealer malware poses a critical threat to businesses of all sizes, regardless of their technology and platform choices.
Infostealers are infecting devices of all kinds, including Windows, macOS, and Android devices, and even smart TVs. They’re stealing data on a massive scale, and it’s vital to be aware of the dangers and protect your organization.
What is infostealer malware?
Infostealers are a type of malware designed to steal files and data and send them back to a server managed by the attackers. They can steal various types of information and files, such as:
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Login credentials and passwords
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Cookies
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Autofill data, such as names, addresses, or phone numbers
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Payment information
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Cryptocurrency wallet keys
Infostealer malware infiltrates computers and devices via phishing emails, malicious downloads, or cracked software. Conventional cybersecurity measures can’t stop them.
Infostealers bypass Google Chrome’s security protections, and many can sidestep or sabotage anti-virus tools. They’re designed to work undetected and delete themselves when they’ve finished. Your personal data can be for sale on the dark web before you know you’ve been hit.
Malware-as-a-service: The infostealer industry
The massive growth in infostealer infections and data theft is supported by an illegal underground industry. Infostealers are sold on the dark web using the malware-as-a-service (MaaS) model. An attacker can rent an infostealer for as little as $100 per month.
In the past, hacking was a complex business that required advanced tools and technical expertise. Today, MaaS is making cybercrime simple, affordable, and highly profitable.
Infostealer malware is now a cross-platform threat
Microsoft Windows remains the most frequently targeted platform, but infostealers are quickly spreading across other systems, sometimes in surprising ways.
RedLine and Raccoon Stealer:
Raccoon Stealer and RedLine are examples of infostealers targeting Windows PCs. RedLine was even distributed through websites offering fake Windows 11 upgrades.
International law enforcement took down both these infostealers a few years ago, and a key developer of Raccoon Stealer was sentenced to 5 years in prison. However, a new version of Raccoon Stealer appeared a few months later and continues to be a threat.
Atomic Stealer (AMOS): The macOS infostealer
Devices running macOS are no longer safe from malware. Installed through fake ads and spoofed apps, Atomic Stealer harvests information such as iCloud Keychain data and login credentials.
Nexus, Hydra, and Xenomorph: Android malware
Infostealers on Android devices often target mobile banking apps.
The Nexus infostealer can intercept multi-factor authentication codes and banking credentials, while Hydra and Xenomorph specialize in European banking targets.
Smart TVs: The weak link in an organization’s security
Smart TVs running Android can be compromised via malicious APK sideloads. Smart TVs often lack traditional endpoint protection. This makes them a security weak point that attackers can exploit to steal data or even eavesdrop on users.
How to protect your organization against the infostealer threat
Start with the basics:
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Enforce strong, unique passwords across the organization.
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Require multi-factor authentication (MFA).
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Provide security awareness training so that everyone can recognize phishing and suspicious downloads.
Credential monitoring: Early warning of compromised credentials
Many infostealers can evade signature-based antivirus tools. Compromised credentials can surface on dark web forums before a breach is detected.
The earlier you know your data has been compromised, the faster you can respond. A solution such as Cybercheck can:
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Detect compromised credentials and personal data across platforms, including Windows, macOS, Android, and IoT.
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Alert you immediately if cybercriminals are exchanging information related to you or your organization.
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Integrate with your existing security stack to automate your responses to threats and incidents.
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Highlight risks and areas where you need to act with clear, intuitive dashboards and scorecards.
In today’s threat landscape, a real-time credential and PII monitoring solution is a vital component of a proactive cybersecurity strategy.
