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Difobot Worm

Phishing emails claiming to come from HSBC are tricking user’s to install the information stealing worm, Difobot.
Threat ID:
CC-1288
Category:
Spyware
Threat Severity:
Low
Threat Vector:
Email spam
Published:
23 March 2017 12:00 AM
Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

This content has been archived

This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information. Use of this information contained in this page is at your own risk

Summary

Phishing emails claiming to come from HSBC are tricking user’s to install the information stealing worm, Difobot.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Windows Vista and later

Threat details

The malware is delivered with the subject line ‘Payment Advice’ and refers to ‘virus detection software’ called ‘Rapport security software’. The email refers to the attachment as ‘payment advice’ however it is named ‘RapportSetup.7z’ which highlights the inconsistencies of the email which should flag that it’s not legitimately from the bank.

The worm is difficult to detect as it uses ‘Windows GodeMode’ to hide itself. GodeMode is a shortcut to accessing all of the operating system’s controls in one folder; a user normally has to create this however the worm creates it automatically when it’s downloaded. It's difficult to detect as the GodeMode uses the same icon as the ‘Control Panel’. Registry entries are also changed to disable notifications. Once a user’s device is fully compromised the malware will attempt to connect to its Command and Control server which will allow an attacker to remotely steal financial data.

Remediation steps

Type Step
  • Advise and educate end users not to open suspicious and unrecognised emails.
  • If you don't recognise an email address don't open the email and delete immediately.
  • Contact a bank directly via their website or on the phone to confirm if the email is legitimate.
  • To report spam and unsolicited emails follow CareCERT's Reporting suspicious/unsolicited/spam emails within the NHS.

Last edited: 17 February 2020 11:29 am