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Zusy Spyware Trojan

First observed in 2016, Zusy is a spyware trojan that uses Microsoft Office cursor hover actions to infect targeted devices.
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Summary

First observed in 2016, Zusy is a spyware trojan that uses Microsoft Office cursor hover actions to infect targeted devices.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Threat details

Zusy is distributed via phishing emails containing a PowerPoint file attachment that, when opened, will display a hypertext dialogue message. PowerPoint will register if the user performs a hover action on the message and will display secondary dialogue message asking the user to enable extra content. It will then execute an embedded PowerShell script that downloads and installs Zusy.

Once installed, Zusy will attempt to collect user and system information including financial details, login credentials and cryptocurrency wallet keys.


Remediation steps

Type Step

Microsoft Office 2010 and later include the Protected View security setting that will automatically warn users when performing actions on potentially malicious files. Users should ensure this feature is enabled if available.

To prevent and detect a trojan infection, ensure that:

  • 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.
  • 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 12:58 pm