Cybersecurity researchers at Fortinet have unveiled a new and sophisticated variant of the Snake Keylogger malware, which has already thwarted over 280 million infection attempts globally. This advanced strain is engineered to capture sensitive user information, including credentials, browser data, and clipboard activities. The malware’s highest infection rates have been observed in countries such as China, Turkey, Indonesia, Taiwan, and Spain, although its reach is undeniably worldwide.
How Snake Keylogger Operates
According to a recent advisory from Fortinet’s FortiGuard Labs, the Snake Keylogger follows a structured three-phase operation:
- Distribution and proliferation: The malware spreads through phishing emails that contain malicious links or attachments.
- Data collection: It captures keystrokes and extracts credentials from widely used browsers, including Chrome and Firefox.
- Data transmission: Stolen information is sent to command-and-control servers through encrypted channels, such as SMTP (email) and Telegram bots.
Employing advanced evasion techniques, Snake Keylogger utilizes process hollowing to inject malicious code into legitimate Windows processes, alongside persistence mechanisms like scripts placed in the Windows Startup folder. Once it infiltrates a system, it operates stealthily, logging sensitive information and exfiltrating it to remote servers.
Read more on preventing phishing-based malware attacks: With Phishing Getting Harder to Spot, How Can Users Stay Protected?
The Threat of Snake Keylogger
The danger posed by this keylogger is amplified by its use of obfuscation tools, such as AutoIt scripting, which enables it to evade antivirus defenses. This scripting language allows attackers to conceal malicious payloads within seemingly harmless files, making detection and analysis significantly more challenging.
Moreover, Snake Keylogger specifically targets credentials stored in browsers, utilizing hooks and APIs to gain access to login data, autofill information, and even credit card details.
To mitigate the risks associated with keylogger malware, security experts recommend the following precautions:
- Email caution: Users should refrain from opening unsolicited email attachments or clicking on unknown links.
- Updated security tools: Employing antivirus software equipped with behavior-based detection capabilities is crucial.
- Regular patching: Keeping operating systems and software up to date is essential for security.
Researchers stress the importance of proactive defenses and user awareness in the ongoing battle against evolving malware threats like Snake Keylogger.
