Iranian APT42 and APT35 Utilizing LLMs for AI-Augmented Spear-Phishing and Tamecat Malware Deployment
Iranian state-sponsored threat actors APT42 and APT35 (linked to the IRGC) are integrating Large Language Models (LLMs) to automate and refine spear-phishing campaigns. By leveraging Generative AI, these actors produce linguistically precise lures that evade traditional natural language processing (NLP)-based detection. Technical execution involves the deployment of Tamecat, a PowerShell-based backdoor, and EP3 malware to establish persistent access within high-value targets, including U.S. government officials and critical infrastructure. This tactical evolution shifts from manual social engineering to scalable, AI-driven reconnaissance and weaponized phishing, significantly increasing the efficacy of initial access attempts against geopolitical adversaries.