“This is far from the first Linux malware; there have been Linux viruses, Trojans, backdoors and worms dating back to the ’80s. While these often are overlooked as annoying, they are out there and exist. The reason they are not more prevalent is that the Linux Operating System is not as common as Microsoft or Apple’s versions. In reality every operating system, dating back to CPM has at least one piece of malware written for the platform. In this case, my best guess would be that the malware authors were looking for a new venue of cryptocurrency mining and to leverage under-protected devices so as to leapfrog into an organization. This can also be leveraged for future attacks against other devices on the compromised network, once a reconnaissance is carried out.
“Organisation should remember to treat the Linux devices within the organization like every other computing device. It’s also critical to install and maintain host security products and harden the operating system. If necessary, due to lack of native scanners, leverage anti-malware products to remote scan the device periodically, per industry best practices.
“I hope this reminds network managers and security administrators that ALL devices are vulnerable to attack and that just because the threat is not as prevalent as on Windows, that doesn’t mean it’s immune to attack. Many people have said “I don’t need Anti-Virus, I run Linux/Mac/etc.,” and every few years I like to remind people this isn’t the case, and that all devices need to be protected.”
ISBuzz Team embodies the collaborative efforts of the dedicated staff at Information Security Buzz, converging a wide range of skills and viewpoints to present a unified, engaging voice in the information security realm. This entity isn't tied to a single individual; instead, it's a dynamic embodiment of a team diligently working behind the scenes to keep you updated and secure. When you read a post from ISBuzz Team, you're receiving the most relevant and actionable insights, curated and crafted by professionals tuned in to the pulse of the cybersecurity world. ISBuzz Team - your reliable compass in the fast-evolving landscape of information security
To provide the best experiences, we use technologies like cookies to store and/or access device information. Consenting to these technologies will allow us to process data such as browsing behavior or unique IDs on this site. Not consenting or withdrawing consent, may adversely affect certain features and functions.
Functional
Always active
The technical storage or access is strictly necessary for the legitimate purpose of enabling the use of a specific service explicitly requested by the subscriber or user, or for the sole purpose of carrying out the transmission of a communication over an electronic communications network.
Preferences
The technical storage or access is necessary for the legitimate purpose of storing preferences that are not requested by the subscriber or user.
Statistics
The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for statistical purposes.The technical storage or access that is used exclusively for anonymous statistical purposes. Without a subpoena, voluntary compliance on the part of your Internet Service Provider, or additional records from a third party, information stored or retrieved for this purpose alone cannot usually be used to identify you.
Marketing
The technical storage or access is required to create user profiles to send advertising, or to track the user on a website or across several websites for similar marketing purposes.