Technology

Surge in “Hunter-killer” Malware Uncovered by Picus Security

Published

6 months ago

February 13, 2024

The Picus Red Report 2024 reveals 333% increase in malware that targets and disables security controls

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Picus Security, the Security Validation company, has released the Picus Red Report 2024. This fourth annual report shares learnings from an in-depth analysis of more than 600,000 real-world malware samples and identifies the most common techniques leveraged by attackers. This year, Picus uncovered a surge of “Hunter-killer” malware from the research findings, demonstrating a drastic shift in adversaries’ ability to identify and neutralize advanced enterprise defenses such as next-gen firewalls, antivirus, and EDR. According to the report, there was a 333% increase in malware that can actively target defensive systems in an attempt to disable them.

“We are witnessing a surge in ultra-evasive, highly aggressive malware which shares the characteristics of hunter-killer submarines,” said Dr. Suleyman Ozarslan, Picus Security Co-founder and VP of Picus Labs. “Just as these subs move silently through deep waters and launch devastating attacks to defeat their targets’ defenses, new malware is designed to not only evade security tools but actively bring them down. We believe cybercriminals are changing tact in response to the security of average businesses being much-improved, and widely used tools offering far more advanced capabilities to detect threats. A year ago, it was relatively rare for adversaries to disable security controls. Now, this behavior is seen in a quarter of malware samples and is used by virtually every ransomware group and APT group.”

The Red Report helps security teams better understand and battle cyber attacks by identifying the Top 10 most prevalent MITRE ATT&CK techniques exhibited by the latest malware. Its insights help prioritize defensive actions against commonly used techniques. Additional key findings include:

Evolving tactics challenge detection and response: 70% of malware analyzed now employ stealth-oriented techniques by attackers, particularly those that facilitate evading security measures and maintaining persistence in networks.Invisibility at the forefront of evasion: There was a 150% increase in the use of T1027 Obfuscated Files or Information. This highlights a trend toward hindering the effectiveness of security solutions and obfuscating malicious activities to complicate the detection of attacks, forensic analysis, and incident response efforts. The ransomware saga continues: There was a 176% increase in the use of T1071 Application Layer Protocol, which are being strategically deployed for data exfiltration as part of sophisticated double extortion schemes.

To combat Hunter-killer malware and stay ahead of 2024 malware trends, Picus is urging organizations to embrace machine learning, protect user credentials, and consistently validate their defenses against the latest tactics and techniques used by cybercriminals.

“It can be incredibly difficult to detect if an attack has disabled or reconfigured security tools, because they may still appear to be working as expected,” said Huseyin Can YUCEEL, Security Research Lead at Picus Security. “Preventing attacks that would otherwise operate under the radar requires the use of multiple security controls with a defense-in-depth approach. Security validation must be a starting point for organizations to better understand their readiness and identify gaps. Unless an organization is proactively simulating attacks to assess the response of its EDR, XDR, SIEM, and other defensive systems that may be weakened or eliminated by Hunter-killer malware, they will not know they are down until it is too late.”

For more information:

Download the Picus Red Report 2024 Read the Red Report 2024 blog

Methodology

Between January 2023 and December 2023, Picus Labs, the research unit of Picus Security, analyzed 667,401 unique files, with 612,080 (92%) categorized as malicious. Sources of these files include but are not limited to commercial and open-source threat intelligence services, security vendors and researchers, malware sandboxes, malware databases, and forums. From these files, a total of 7,754,801 actions were extracted, an average of 13 malicious actions per malware. These actions were then mapped to 7,015,759 MITRE ATT&CK techniques, an average of 11 techniques per malware.

To compile the Picus Red Report 2024 Top Ten, Picus Labs researchers determined the number of malicious files that used each technique. They then calculated the percentage of malware in the dataset that utilized that technique. For example, the T1055 Process Injection technique was used in 195,044 (32%) of the 612,080 malicious files analyzed.

About Picus Security

Picus Security helps security teams consistently and accurately validate their security posture. Our Security Validation Platform simulates real-world threats to evaluate the effectiveness of security controls, identify high-risk attack paths to critical assets, and optimize threat prevention and detection capabilities.

As the pioneer of Breach and Attack Simulation, we specialize in delivering the actionable insights our customers need to be threat-centric and proactive.

Picus has been named a ‘Cool Vendor’ by Gartner and is recognized by Frost & Sullivan as a leader in the Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) market.

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Technology

MadApes Expands into Solana, Base, Blast, Polygon, Avax, and Matic to Boost Crypto Project Visibility and Engagement

Published

3 hours ago

July 27, 2024

MadApes Announces Strategic Expansion into Leading Blockchain Ecosystems

SAN DIEGO, July 27, 2024 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — MadApes, a prominent player in the blockchain industry, has unveiled its expansion into several key blockchain ecosystems including Solana, Base, Blast, Polygon, Avax, and Matic. This strategic move aims to significantly enhance visibility and engagement for cryptocurrency projects, solidifying MadApes’ presence across multiple platforms and offering robust support for diverse blockchain innovations.

Broadened Focus
MadApes has built a reputation for effective marketing campaigns and active community engagement. Recognizing the increasing significance of alternative blockchain platforms, the company aims to leverage its growing user base. By expanding its focus to multiple chains, MadApes intends to offer customized marketing solutions that enhance project visibility and foster community interaction across these newer ecosystems.

Leadership Statement
CEO of MadApes @theT1T4N highlighted the importance of innovation and responsiveness to market changes. @theT1T4N stated, “Our expansion into multiple blockchain ecosystems reflects our dedication to staying ahead in the fast-paced world of cryptocurrency marketing. By extending our services to projects on Solana, Base, Blast, Polygon, Avax, and Matic, we aim to provide comprehensive marketing solutions that support visibility and growth on diverse platforms.”

Industry Trends and Alignment
This strategic move aligns with broader industry trends toward blockchain interoperability and cross-chain compatibility. As projects increasingly seek to utilize the unique features of various networks, MadApes’ expansion positions it as a versatile partner capable of meeting these diverse needs. The company’s strategy not only addresses current market demands but also anticipates future developments in the multi-chain ecosystem.

Community and Philanthropy
MadApes has generously contributed to Emanem’s food donation drive, making it possible to reach more people in need. Through this joint effort, MadApes helps Emanem and aims to provide essential food supplies to individuals and families struggling with food insecurity.

Reception from the Community and Projects
The announcement has garnered positive responses from both existing and prospective projects. Many within the Solana, Base, Blast, Polygon, Avax, and Matic ecosystems have shown interest in leveraging MadApes’ expertise to boost their marketing efforts. This reception underscores the company’s reputation for adaptability and forward-thinking strategies.

Commitment to Excellence
As MadApes ventures into new blockchain ecosystems, it remains committed to maintaining the high standards of excellence and innovation that have characterized its marketing services. The company’s expanded focus is expected to have a significant influence in shaping the success of projects across diverse platforms.

Engage with MadApes
Crypto enthusiasts and project teams can stay informed and engaged through MadApes’ various channels:

Call Channel – https://t.me/mad_apes_callGambles Channel – https://t.me/mad_apes_gamblesCommunity Lounge – https://t.me/mad_apesTwitter – https://x.com/madapescall

Visit their website at http://www.madapes.net for more information.

MadApes’ expansion marks a significant development in the cryptocurrency marketing landscape, offering broader opportunities for project visibility and community engagement.

Media Contact

Rachel Harris, Rachel Harris Pulse Media, 949-749-5349, info@pulsemediapr.com

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SOURCE MadApes

Technology

InfoComm India 2024 -The Largest Edition of the Pro AV Exhibition to Date – Returns 3-5 September at Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC) Mumbai, India

Published

11 hours ago

July 26, 2024

MUMBAI, India, July 27, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — InfoComm India, India’s foremost professional audiovisual (Pro AV) exhibition, is set to return to Mumbai from 3-5 September 2024 at the Jio World Convention Centre (JWCC). This year, InfoComm India 2024 expands beyond Pavilions 1 to 3 at JWCC, incorporating Jasmine Hall (at Level 3) for an even larger showcase of innovative solutions. It will showcase over 250 brands from more than 10 countries, including 35 first-time exhibitors. InfoComm India 2024 will be held. Registration is now open for professionals and businesses looking to deepen their Pro AV expertise.

Visitors can discover a plethora of solutions ranging from the latest in digital signage, to intelligent video conference systems, from artificial intelligence (AI) in LED virtual production to naked eye 3D displays, smart classroom solutions, interactive immersive projection mapping and more catering to a wide range of sectors such as education, finance, live events, urban development & smart cities. The exhibition will showcase top-tier products and innovations from renowned global brands and emerging industry players, including AERO, BENQ, Crestron, Harman, QSYS, Barco, AET, Samsung, and PeopleLink, along with WACOM, DVSI, Neotouch, Yotech Infocom, Onfinity Technologies and 30 more who are exhibiting for the first time at InfoComm India

With an expanded show floor space at Jasmine Hall, visitors can look forward to even more innovators in the Pro AV and technology space including TOYO, 4 Squares Corporation, Altex, Black Box and Wah Lee to name a few. AVIXA will also be making its presence felt at Jasmine Hall with interactive and knowledge-packed seminars hosted at its booth throughout the three days.

The 2024 InfoComm India Summit will offer over 48 free-to-attend seminars across 14 specialized tracks led by over 50 industry leaders as speakers. A glimpse of the exciting lineup of sessions includes a kick-off overview “Navigating New Horizons: Insights and Innovations Shaping India’s Pro AV Landscape” led by David Labuskes, CTS, CAE, RCDD, Executive Director and CEO, AVIXA , ‘Live Events & Experiential Planning’ exploring Pro AV application for live events, as well as industry-focused sessions dedicated to smart cities, hospitality, and education sectors like “Future of Learning Spaces”, “Securing the Future: Cybersecurity Strategies, Economics, and Risk Management”, Digital Signage in the AI-age which explores real-world strategies using AI, VR, and digital platforms for immersive experiences.

“India’s digital transformation is truly inspiring,” said June Ko, Executive Director of InfoComm India. “We see a vibrant energy and a thirst for innovation across the country. InfoComm India 2024 is our way of bringing together the brilliant minds and passionate hearts that are shaping this new era of technology in India. We envision InfoComm India as the premier destination for the Pro AV community to exchange ideas, foster partnerships, and collectively drive the industry forward.”

Connection is at the heart of InfoComm India 2024. A host of networking opportunities are designed to connect attendees with industry experts, thought leaders, and peers. They include the Breakfast Networking Hour at Luminary Lounge (Jasmine Hall) on 2 and 3 September, 9.30am to 10.00am; Flashtrack seminars and networking events at AVIXA booth; daily New Technology and Products Show Floor Tours and more.

For full details on exhibitors, products, summit agenda, registration, and sponsorship opportunities, visit www.infocomm-india.com

To access more press information of InfoComm India 2024, please visit: Digital Press Office Kit

For more information, please contact:

Rest of the World

Angie Eng
Marketing Director

InfoCommAsiaPteLtd
angieeng@infocommasia.com

India

Sooraj Dhawan

Director

Falcon Exhibitions Pvt. Ltd.

sooraj@falconfirst.com

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Technology

Virtual Internet Announces Virtual 5GE

Published

12 hours ago

July 26, 2024

V5GE and V5G are the World’s Choice as Downloads and Users for Virtual 5G Express and Virtual 5G surge in response to sabotage of fiber-optic cables across France

V5GE usage increases 10,000% at Paris Olympics

#3 in Tools Downloads in France

SINGAPORE and SAN JOSE, Calif., July 26, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Virtual Internet has announced Virtual 5G Express reached #3 in Tools Downloads in France, based on statistics from App Brain and Android on Google Play in July 2024. Virtual 5GE was also among the top Tools Apps released in the last 30 days.

Installations and Users for Virtual 5G Express and Virtual 5G surged in response to sabotage of fiber-optic cables across France. IT companies, such as cloud computing groups, were hit by the outages, which forced traffic to move to alternative routes over Wi-Fi, Cellular and Satellite Transmissions.

Virtual Internet announced that downloads and usage were especially high in Lille, Fance and Paris, France and London, England, the sites of attacks on the day of the opening ceremony of the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics, and the Eurostar TGV cancellations.

Users report that with both V5GE and V5G, they received broadband service. Users also noted their communications were secure and uninterrupted. Without V5GE and V5G, they experienced that service was unstable or absent.

V5GE and V5G were the World’s Choice.

About Virtual Internet Pte. Ltd.

Virtual Internet is an advanced technology company, incorporated in Singapore. Virtual Internet is building a new community of millions of users, connected through multiple networks. Virtual Internet has created and operates on its own Virtual 5G, Virtual 5GE Global Overlay Network, which allows millions of other applications and services to be delivered over 5G Mobile Broadband Speeds using existing Cellular Radio, Wi-Fi, and SATCOM networks.

Media Contact:
PR@adaranetworks.com

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SOURCE Virtual Internet Pte. Ltd.