Vega Browser Spyware

A new web-based spyware known as Vega has been observed targeting Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers. it is believed to be based on the August and Ursnif information stealing trojans.

Threat ID:: CC-2404
Category:: Spyware
Threat Severity:: Low
Threat Vector:: Email spam
Published:: 17 May 2018 12:00 AM

Report a cyber attack: call 0300 303 5222 or email [email protected]

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Summary

A new web-based spyware known as Vega has been observed targeting Google Chrome and Mozilla Firefox browsers. it is believed to be based on the August and Ursnif information stealing trojans.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Google Chrome

Google Chrome - All versions
Mozilla Firefox - All versions

Mozilla Firefox

Threat details

Vega is delivered via macro-laden documents distributed in small-scale spam campaigns. When opened these macros retrieve a primary PowerShell script, which then downloads and executes final payload.

Once installed it will attempt to collect banking and account credentials alongside any Word, Excel, PDF and text files that are transferred using the affected browser. These are then sent to a configurable command and control server.

Remediation advice

To prevent and detect a spyware 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, anti-virus 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 affected devices should be reset on a clean computer. Your organisation adopts a holistic all-round approach to Cyber Security as advocated by the 10 Steps to Cyber Security.

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, anti-virus 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 affected devices should be reset on a clean computer.
Your organisation adopts a holistic all-round approach to Cyber Security as advocated by the 10 Steps to Cyber Security.

Last edited: 17 February 2020 12:56 pm