evasion Archives

Tech Optimizer

February 10, 2026

GuLoader Leverages Polymorphic Malware and Trusted Cloud Infrastructure to Evade Detection

GuLoader, also known as CloudEye, is a downloader malware that has been active since late 2019, primarily used to fetch and install secondary malware like Remote Access Trojans (RATs) and information stealers. It employs legitimate cloud services such as Google Drive and Microsoft OneDrive to host its malicious payloads, allowing it to evade detection by security tools. GuLoader utilizes advanced techniques including polymorphic code, which alters its appearance to avoid static detection signatures, and exception-based control flow to confuse analysis tools. Over the years, GuLoader has refined its tactics, including the use of software breakpoints and various exception types to redirect its operations. It also employs dynamic XOR encryption to obfuscate internal data, making it difficult for analysts to extract URLs. The malware's continuous evolution poses ongoing challenges for security researchers. Indicators of Compromise (IOCs) include specific hash values for different versions of GuLoader from 2022 to 2024.

Tech Optimizer

February 1, 2026

When Digital Guardians Turn Rogue: Inside the eScaneS an Antivirus Supply Chain Attack That Exposed Millions

eScan, an antivirus solution, has become a conduit for a supply chain attack that may have affected millions of users through a compromised software update mechanism. The attack exploited eScan’s automatic update system, distributing malware via official channels that appeared legitimate, thus bypassing traditional security measures. Reports indicate that supply chain attacks have increased by over 300% in the past three years, with software update mechanisms being prime targets. The exact number of affected users is still under investigation, but the breach occurred over a limited period before detection. Enterprises using eScan now face vulnerabilities in their security infrastructure, prompting IT departments to conduct forensic analyses to determine if their networks were compromised. The breach raises concerns about digital security as users typically rely on antivirus solutions for protection. Researchers found that the malware used advanced techniques, including multi-stage deployment and polymorphic behavior to evade detection, indicating significant resources behind the attack. In response, eScan has initiated an incident response protocol, revoked compromised digital certificates, and added verification layers to its update system. However, restoring user trust will require transparency about the breach and preventive measures. The incident has led to widespread security audits across the antivirus sector and may accelerate the adoption of zero-trust security models. Regulatory inquiries are underway regarding eScan's data protection practices, and legal experts anticipate class-action lawsuits from affected users and enterprises. The breach highlights a trend where attackers target security infrastructure itself, making software distribution security a critical focus for cybersecurity professionals. Proposed solutions include blockchain-based verification systems and industry-wide standards for supply chain security. The eScan breach underscores that no organization is immune to sophisticated supply chain attacks, as compromising a security vendor can provide access to its entire customer base. Increased information sharing about supply chain threats is advocated to enhance collaboration within the security industry. Moving forward, eScan must balance technical remediation with transparent communication to rebuild trust, while users are advised to implement defense-in-depth strategies rather than relying solely on one security tool.

Tech Optimizer

January 30, 2026

When Digital Guardians Turn Rogue: Inside the Avast Antivirus Supply Chain Attack That Exposed Millions

Avast's automatic update system was compromised, allowing malicious code to be distributed through its official channels, affecting potentially millions of users. This breach is characterized as a sophisticated supply chain attack, which exploited the software update mechanism, making it difficult to detect as the malware appeared legitimate. Security analysts noted a 300% increase in supply chain attacks over the past three years, with this incident highlighting vulnerabilities in security solutions. Avast has initiated an incident response, revoked compromised digital certificates, and is collaborating with cybersecurity firms to address the breach. European regulators have begun inquiries into Avast's data protection measures, and legal experts anticipate class-action lawsuits from affected users. The incident underscores a trend of attackers targeting security infrastructure itself, prompting calls for improved software distribution security and industry-wide standards.

Tech Optimizer

January 29, 2026

eScan Antivirus Update Server Hacked to Push Malicious Update packages

A supply chain breach has affected MicroWorld Technologies' eScan antivirus product, allowing malicious actors to use the vendor's update infrastructure to spread malware. Discovered on January 20, 2026, by Morphisec, the attack involved a trojanized update package that deployed multi-stage malware on enterprise and consumer endpoints globally. The initial compromise occurred through a malicious update replacing the legitimate Reload.exe binary, which was digitally signed with a valid eScan certificate. This led to the execution of a downloader (CONSCTLX.exe) and further malware stages that evaded defenses and disabled security features. The malware obstructs automatic updates by altering system configurations, including the hosts file and registry keys. Indicators of compromise include specific file names and SHA-256 hashes for the trojanized update and downloader. Network administrators are advised to block traffic to identified command and control domains and IPs. Affected organizations should verify their systems for signs of compromise and contact MicroWorld Technologies for a manual patch.

Tech Optimizer

January 22, 2026

Hackers Weaponized 2,500+ Security Tools to Terminate Endpoint Protection Before Deploying Ransomware

A large-scale campaign is exploiting the truesight.sys Windows security driver from Adlice Software’s RogueKiller antivirus to disable endpoint detection and response (EDR) and antivirus solutions, facilitating the deployment of ransomware and remote access malware. This attack utilizes over 2,500 validly signed variants of the driver, allowing attackers to manipulate legacy driver signing rules to load pre-2015 signed drivers on Windows 11 machines. The vulnerable TrueSight driver exposes an IOCTL command that enables attackers to terminate security processes, providing them with kernel-level access to bypass user-mode protections. The infection chain typically starts with phishing emails or compromised sites, leading to the installation of a downloader that retrieves additional malicious components. The malware establishes persistence and deploys an EDR killer module targeting nearly 200 security products. Once defenses are disabled, the final payload, often a remote access trojan or ransomware, executes with minimal visibility, completing the attack in as little as 30 minutes.

AppWizard

January 17, 2026

To celebrate the imminent launch of a new Styx adventure, Epic is giving away Cyanide’s last two goblin-flavoured stealth games for free

In the early 2010s, Cyanide Studios’ Styx was a notable stealth title in a sparse gaming landscape. Styx, a goblin character, gained attention before being overshadowed by the Hitman franchise. In February, a new installment titled Blades of Greed is set to release, and Epic Games is offering the previous titles, Styx: Master of Shadows and Styx: Shards of Darkness, for free on Steam. Both games focus on stealth mechanics, encouraging evasion and cunning rather than direct confrontation. Master of Shadows established the series with intricate environments, while Shards of Darkness improved nonlinear exploration and cooperative play. Blades of Greed promises expansive gameplay with three vast environments, new mechanics like a glider, and a more proactive role for Styx as he assembles a crew for heists from his airship. The game is scheduled for release on February 19, with a demo available on Steam.

Tech Optimizer

December 28, 2025

Threat Actors Advertised NtKiller Malware on Dark Web Claiming Terminate Antivirus and EDR Bypass

A malicious entity named AlphaGhoul has introduced a tool called NtKiller, designed to disable antivirus software and endpoint detection systems, posing a threat to organizations using traditional security measures. NtKiller was advertised on an underground forum, claiming to allow attackers to operate undetected while executing malware. It reportedly circumvents security programs like Microsoft Defender, ESET, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, and Trend Micro, and can bypass enterprise-grade Endpoint Detection and Response solutions in aggressive modes. Analysts from KrakenLabs noted that NtKiller uses early-boot persistence mechanisms to evade detection and operates on a modular pricing structure, with core functionality available for [openai_gpt model="gpt-4o-mini" prompt="Summarize the content and extract only the fact described in the text bellow. The summary shall NOT include a title, introduction and conclusion. Text: A malicious entity known as AlphaGhoul has recently surfaced within the cybercriminal underworld, promoting a tool dubbed NtKiller. This tool is engineered to discreetly disable antivirus software and endpoint detection systems, posing a new threat to organizations that rely on traditional security measures. NtKiller was unveiled on an underground forum frequented by individuals seeking to buy and sell hacking services. The advertisement claims that this tool enables attackers to operate undetected while executing their malware on compromised machines. The introduction of NtKiller signifies a formidable challenge for businesses that depend on established security solutions. According to the threat actor, the tool is capable of circumventing several widely-used security programs, including Microsoft Defender, ESET, Kaspersky, Bitdefender, and Trend Micro. Alarmingly, it is also said to bypass enterprise-grade Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solutions when utilized in aggressive modes. Analysts from KrakenLabs have observed that NtKiller employs early-boot persistence mechanisms, allowing it to remain concealed and evade detection by security teams once activated. This stealthy approach complicates efforts to identify and eliminate the malware. Further investigation by KrakenLabs revealed that NtKiller operates on a modular pricing structure. The core functionality is available for 0, with additional features such as rootkit capability and User Account Control (UAC) bypass each priced at an extra 0. This pricing model indicates that the tool has been meticulously crafted for commercial distribution within the cybercriminal ecosystem. Beyond merely terminating processes, NtKiller is purported to support advanced evasion techniques, including HVCI disabling, VBS manipulation, and memory integrity circumvention. Technical capabilities The technical features attributed to NtKiller render it particularly perilous in the hands of adept attackers. The tool's early-boot persistence mechanism allows it to embed itself during system startup, prior to the activation of many security monitoring systems. This timing advantage facilitates the execution of malicious payloads in an environment where detection capabilities are significantly diminished. Moreover, the anti-debugging and anti-analysis protections embedded within NtKiller hinder researchers and automated tools from scrutinizing the malware's behavior, resulting in a substantial knowledge gap regarding its true capabilities versus its promotional claims. Another critical feature is the silent UAC bypass option, which enables malware to acquire elevated system privileges without triggering standard Windows prompts that could alert users to suspicious activities. When combined with rootkit functionality, this allows attackers to maintain persistent access to compromised systems while remaining undetected by conventional security measures. It is essential to highlight that these capabilities have yet to be independently verified by third-party researchers, leaving the actual effectiveness of NtKiller uncertain. Organizations are urged to remain vigilant and ensure their security tools incorporate behavioral detection mechanisms that extend beyond signature-based identification to effectively combat such emerging threats. Follow us on Google News, LinkedIn, and X to Get More Instant Updates, Set CSN as a Preferred Source in Google." max_tokens="3500" temperature="0.3" top_p="1.0" best_of="1" presence_penalty="0.1" frequency_penalty="frequency_penalty"] and additional features priced at 0 each. The tool supports advanced evasion techniques, including HVCI disabling, VBS manipulation, and memory integrity circumvention. Its silent User Account Control bypass option allows malware to gain elevated privileges without alerting users. The effectiveness of NtKiller's capabilities has not been independently verified, prompting organizations to enhance their security measures beyond signature-based detection.

AppWizard

December 23, 2025

Silent Hill f didn’t just give us a superb SH game in the year of our lord 2025, but it offered up one of the best in the series

Silent Hill f has been well-received by fans, emerging as a standout game in 2025. It reimagines the classic series by introducing a modern narrative while maintaining its psychological horror roots and signature eerie atmosphere. The game features straightforward combat mechanics that require players to balance confrontation and evasion. Players navigate desolate landscapes filled with tension, suspense, and exploration, staying true to the franchise's legacy. Konami's dedication to enhancing the series while honoring its past has resulted in a rich and immersive experience for both new and seasoned players.

Tech Optimizer

December 9, 2025

Warning! Engineered Linux Malware Can Bypass Next-Gen Anti-Virus Solutions – Open Source For You

The author created a custom reverse TCP payload using Python, packaged it into an .elf executable, and tested its stealthiness against antivirus software. The payload included functionalities such as webcam snapshots, keylogging, screen capture, and file transfers. Established tools for obfuscation often triggered antivirus alerts, prompting the author to develop a custom solution to avoid signature-based detection, maintain behavioral control, and gain insights into detection engines. The payload was designed to connect back to the attacker's machine and execute commands, while the listener processed incoming data. After compiling the binary, it was submitted to VirusTotal, where only four out of 64 antivirus engines flagged it, indicating that custom code can bypass many next-gen antivirus products.

AppWizard

November 26, 2025

Hackers Bypass Signal, Telegram And WhatsApp Encryption To Read Messages

CISA has issued a warning about spyware targeting users of instant messaging applications, particularly highlighting the Sturnus trojan, which poses significant risks to Android smartphone users. Sturnus, identified as a banking trojan, can bypass encrypted messaging by capturing messages after they are decrypted on the smartphone screen, rather than cracking the encryption itself. Security expert Aditya Sood noted that Sturnus uses a combination of plaintext, RSA, and AES-encrypted communication, complicating detection efforts. The trojan can read everything displayed on the smartphone screen in real time, including sensitive messages and contacts. CISA also identified tactics used by cyber threat actors, such as phishing, zero-click exploits, and impersonation to gain unauthorized access to messaging apps. Users are advised to keep Google’s Play Protect activated, avoid unauthorized app stores, and be cautious with accessibility permissions to protect against these threats.