messaging systems

Cybercriminals are increasingly targeting Microsoft Teams to deploy malware and gain control over victim systems, shifting from traditional email phishing attacks. They impersonate IT support staff in Teams chats to deceive employees into granting remote access. Attackers use newly created or compromised accounts with names like “IT SUPPORT ✅” to appear legitimate. They establish trust and persuade employees to install remote access software, allowing direct access to corporate networks. Recent incidents involve malware loaders like DarkGate and Matanbuchus, with attackers executing PowerShell commands to download malicious payloads designed for credential theft and remote code execution. The malware can designate its process as “critical” to evade detection and trick users into entering passwords through a legitimate-looking prompt. Analysis links these campaigns to the financially motivated threat actor known as Water Gamayun. Employees must be trained to verify unsolicited requests for credentials or software installations through separate communication channels.