Muhstik Botnet Exploiting Apache RocketMQ Flaw to Expand DDoS Attacks

Muhstik Botnet Exploiting Apache RocketMQ Flaw to Expand DDoS Attacks

June 6, 2024 at 10:24AM

The Muhstik botnet, known for targeting IoT devices and Linux servers, has exploited a security flaw in Apache RocketMQ to expand its scale. It leverages vulnerabilities to execute remote code, persist on hosts, and evade detection, aiming to launch DDoS attacks and engage in cryptomining activities. Organizations are urged to update to mitigate potential threats.

From the meeting notes, it appears that there was a discussion about the recent DDoS attack by the Muhstik botnet. The attack leveraged a security flaw in Apache RocketMQ to infect IoT devices and Linux-based servers and expand its scale. The botnet is known for cryptocurrency mining and launching DDoS attacks. It exploits security flaws, specifically those related to web applications, for propagation.

The attack used the CVE-2023-33246 vulnerability affecting Apache RocketMQ to execute a shell script and download the Muhstik malware. The malware achieves persistence on the host and evades detection by copying itself to various directories and using evasion techniques.

Muhstik is capable of gathering system metadata, laterally moving to other devices over SSH, and establishing contact with a C2 domain. Its end goal is to perform flooding attacks against targets, overwhelming their network resources.

There are still over 5,000 vulnerable instances of Apache RocketMQ exposed to the internet, making it essential for organizations to update to the latest version to mitigate potential threats.

Additionally, the ASEC revealed that poorly secured MS-SQL servers are being targeted by threat actors with various types of malware, and administrators are advised to use strong passwords and apply the latest patches to prevent vulnerability attacks.

This is a concerning security issue that organizations should take seriously and take proactive measures to protect their systems and data.

Let me know if there’s anything else you need assistance with regarding these meeting notes.

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