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Hot Topic Overview
Overview
North Korea's Lazarus Group, a notorious hacking group, has recently launched a cyberattack campaign called "Operation 99" targeting Web3 and cryptocurrency software developers. The attackers masquerade as recruiters, posting fake job listings on platforms like LinkedIn to lure developers into participating in disguised project testing and code audits. Once a victim takes the bait, they are directed to clone a GitLab repository containing malicious code, allowing the attackers to implant modular malware onto their systems. This malware is designed to steal high-value data such as passwords, API keys, cryptocurrency wallet information, and maintain a connection through highly obfuscated command-and-control (C2) servers, maximizing their stealth.
Ace Hot Topic Analysis
Analysis
The Lazarus Group, a North Korean hacking group, launched a cyberattack dubbed "Operation 99" targeting Web3 and cryptocurrency software developers. The attackers, posing as recruiters, post fake job listings on platforms like LinkedIn, luring developers with the promise of project testing and code reviews. Once a victim bites, they are directed to clone a seemingly innocuous GitLab repository, which actually contains malicious code. The cloned code connects to a command and control (C2) server, embedding malware into the victim's environment and granting the attackers control over their computer. This cross-platform malware can steal high-value data such as passwords, API keys, and cryptocurrency wallet information, and maintains its connection through highly obfuscated C2 servers to maximize its stealth.