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CroniX Cryptocurrency Miner

CroniX is a newly observed cryptocurrency miner exploiting the Apache Struts vulnerability CVE-2018-11776.
Threat ID:
CC-2660
Category:
Cryptocurrency
Threat Severity:
Medium
Threat Vector:
Exploit
Published:
11 September 2018 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This content has been archived

This article no longer conforms to NHS Digital's standards for cyber alerts, and may contain outdated or inaccurate information.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

CroniX is a newly observed cryptocurrency miner exploiting the Apache Struts vulnerability CVE-2018-11776.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Apache Struts

  • Apache Struts - Versions 2.3 to 2.3.34 and 2.5 to 2.5.16

Threat details

Like the other malware targeting this vulnerability, CroniX uses one of a number of publicly available proof-of-concept exploits to infect vulnerable servers.

Once installed, CroniX will delete the binaries of any other mining malware it detects on the system. It will then terminate any process with 60% or more CPU utilisation before beginning its own mining module.

For further information:

Remediation steps

Type Step

Users and administrators are encouraged to review the Apache Struts Exploit Cryptocurrency Miner CC-2650 article on the Information Sharing Portal and apply the necessary updates.

To prevent and detect an 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.
  • Regular anti-virus and security scans are performed on your organisation’s estate.
  • 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.

CVE Vulnerabilities

Status

CVE-2018-11776

Last edited: 17 February 2020 12:41 pm