Qakbot’s backbot: FBI-led takedown keeps crims at bay for just 3 months

Qakbot's backbot: FBI-led takedown keeps crims at bay for just 3 months

December 19, 2023 at 04:33AM

Qakbot malware has resurged with a new phishing campaign targeting the hospitality sector. The gang uses malicious PDF attachments disguised as IRS documents to distribute the malware. Despite earlier efforts to take it down, Qakbot has reappeared, demonstrating the challenge of combating cybercrime. Similar to Emotet’s revival, Qakbot’s resurgence poses ongoing threats to cybersecurity.

Key takeaways from the meeting notes:
– The Qakbot malware has resurged after being shut down by law enforcement months prior.
– The new Qakbot phishing campaign is active, targeting the hospitality sector.
– The malware is being associated with group TA577 and has similarities with Pikabot.
– Qakbot’s takedown during Operation Duck Hunt in August did not result in arrests and it has since reemerged.
– The resurgence of Qakbot is reflective of the ongoing challenge in tackling cybercrime, with criminals adapting quickly to law enforcement actions.
– The case of Emotet’s resurrection after takedown in 2021 is cited as a parallel.
– While Qakbot’s disruption following law enforcement actions has had an impact, it remains uncertain if it will return to its previous activity levels.

These are the summarized key points from the provided meeting notes.

Full Article