BlackTDS Malware Distribution System

A new traffic distribution system (TDS) for Malware-as-a-Service has been found on the Dark Web, promoting itself as an affordable way to deploy exploit kits and malware.

Threat ID:: CC-2163
Category:
Threat Severity:: Low
Threat Vector:
Published:: 22 March 2018 12:00 AM

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Summary

A new traffic distribution system (TDS) for Malware-as-a-Service has been found on the Dark Web, promoting itself as an affordable way to deploy exploit kits and malware.

Threat details

It is reported that BlackTDS has been advertised on underground markets since the end of 2017.

A TDS filters traffic based on characteristics such as a user’s browser, IP address and location. This enables users to be silently redirected to malicious web pages based on their profile when they click on a link that is part of a TDS chain.

BlackTDS is itself not malware, but simply a distribution method. It appeals to hackers as it is scalable, inexpensive and relatively easy to deploy. Customers select the malicious Application Programming Interfaces (APIs) of their choice, with distribution being handled by the service.

In one campaign users received spam emails containing PDF attachments, including links redirecting them to a website purporting to sell discount pharmaceuticals.

Remediation advice

To prevent and detect a infection, ensure that:

Remediation steps

Type	Step
	A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails. All operating systems, antivirus and other security products are kept up to date. All day to day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts. Strong password policies are in place and password reuse is discouraged. Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity. User accounts accessed from infected machines should be reset on a clean computer

Type

Step

A robust program of education and awareness training is delivered to users to ensure they don’t open attachments or follow links within unsolicited emails.
All operating systems, antivirus and other security products are kept up to date.
All day to day computer activities such as email and internet are performed using non-administrative accounts.
Strong password policies are in place and password reuse is discouraged.
Network, proxy and firewall logs should be monitored for suspicious activity.
User accounts accessed from infected machines should be reset on a clean computer

Last edited: 17 February 2020 12:38 pm