Zepakab Downloader Trojan

Zepakab is a newly observed downloader trojan that makes extensive use of open-source AutoIT libraries and is believed to have been created by the APT28 advanced persistent threat.

Threat ID:: CC-2912
Category:: Trojan
Threat Severity:: Medium
Threat Vector:
Published:: 30 January 2019 12:00 AM

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

Summary

Zepakab is a newly observed downloader trojan that makes extensive use of open-source AutoIT libraries and is believed to have been created by the APT28 advanced persistent threat.

Affected platforms

The following platforms are known to be affected:

Microsoft Windows

Microsoft Windows - All versions

Threat details

At the time of publication it is unclear how Zepakab is delivered, although APT28 are known for using highly targeted spear phishing campaigns to distribute their malware.

Once installed, Zepakab will collect system and user information before connecting to a command and control (C2) server over HTTPS. The C2 server will then use this information to determine if the affected system is a valid target, before sending a payload back to Zepakab for installation. It is currently unclear what payloads have been delivered using Zepakab, although it is likely APT28 are using Zepakab alongside their other tools.

Remediation steps

Type	Step
	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. 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.

Type

Step

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.
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.

Last edited: 11 January 2022 9:40 am