The article discusses a cybercriminal campaign using fake GitHub repositories to distribute SmartLoader, which delivers Lumma Stealer and other malware. These repositories masquerade as gaming cheats and software cracks to lure users, taking advantage of GitHub’s credibility. The use of AI-generated content makes the repositories appear legitimate, making it crucial for individuals and organizations to be vigilant. Affected: GitHub, users downloading software, organizations, potential victims.
Keypoints :
- Fake GitHub repositories are utilized to distribute SmartLoader and Lumma Stealer.
- Malicious payloads are disguised as gaming cheats and system tools.
- Campaign leverages GitHub’s reputation to evade detection.
- AI-generated content is used to create convincing fake repositories.
- Threat actors adopt social engineering tactics to deceive users.
- Malware can steal sensitive information, leading to identity theft and financial fraud.
- Recommendations include downloading software only from official sources and verifying repository authenticity.
- SmartLoader is typically delivered via ZIP files containing obfuscated scripts.
- Cybercriminals are evolving tactics by creating entire repositories rather than just file attachments.
MITRE Techniques :
- TA0001: Initial Access – Fake GitHub repositories lure users into downloading malicious files.
- TA0007: Execution – Malicious ZIP files contain obfuscated Lua scripts that execute harmful payloads.
- TA0011: Command and Control – Lumma Stealer connects to its C&C server to exfiltrate data.
- TA0040: Impact – Theft of sensitive data like login credentials, PII, and cryptocurrency wallets.
Indicator of Compromise :
- [File Name] Release.zip
- [File Name] Software.zip
- [File Name] userdata.txt
- [Domain] pasteflawwed[.]world
- [File Name] Research.com
Full Story: https://www.trendmicro.com/en_us/research/25/c/ai-assisted-fake-github-repositories.html