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Pierluigi Paganini@Security Affairs //
Cybercriminals are using a fake Bitdefender website to distribute the Venom RAT (Remote Access Trojan) and other malicious programs, tricking users into downloading what they believe is legitimate antivirus software. The spoofed domain, bitdefender-download[.]com, closely mimics the official Bitdefender site, making it difficult for unsuspecting users to distinguish between the real and fake versions. This campaign highlights the importance of verifying the legitimacy of software download sources to avoid becoming a victim of malware.

Researchers have found that clicking on the "Download for Windows" button on the fraudulent site initiates a file download from a Bitbucket repository that redirects to an Amazon S3 bucket. The downloaded ZIP archive, named "BitDefender.zip," contains an executable ("StoreInstaller.exe") which includes malware configurations associated with Venom RAT, as well as code related to the open-source post-exploitation framework SilentTrinity and StormKitty stealer. These tools work in concert to compromise user systems.

The Venom RAT allows attackers to harvest data and maintain persistent remote access to compromised systems. Additionally, the StormKitty malware steals passwords, including those for cryptocurrency wallets, while SilentTrinity ensures the attacker can remain hidden and maintain long-term control. DomainTools suspects the fake Bitdefender site was likely used in phishing attacks, given its overlap with internet infrastructure hosting other fake sites impersonating banks and IT services, further emphasizing the malicious intent behind this cloned website.
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References :
  • securityaffairs.com: Crooks use a fake antivirus site to spread Venom RAT and a mix of malware
  • The Hacker News: Cybercriminals Clone Antivirus Site to Spread Venom RAT and Steal Crypto Wallets
  • PCMag UK security: Don't Fall For It: Fake Bitdefender Site Will Infect Your PC With Malware
  • www.pcmag.com: Don't Fall For It: Fake Bitdefender Site Will Infect Your PC With Malware | PCMag
Classification:
  • HashTags: #Malware #RAT #Phishing
  • Company: Bitdefender
  • Target: Windows users
  • Product: Bitdefender
  • Feature: Fake Antivirus
  • Malware: Venom RAT
  • Type: Malware
  • Severity: High