Malware

Android

Trojan

HOOKBOT Fork

HOOKBOT Fork

HookBot Fork is a modified version of the HookBot Android banking Trojan, designed to steal sensitive financial data through overlay attacks, keystroke logging, and SMS interception. Derived from the Ermac malware family, this fork introduces enhanced capabilities such as remote access and file manipulation, making it a significant threat to mobile users.

Key Insights

Key Insights

HookBot originated as a fork of the Ermac malware family, a well-known Android Trojan. The threat actor "DukeEugene" is credited with developing both Ermac and HookBot, leveraging their codebases to add advanced functionalities. HookBot Fork further builds on these foundations, introducing features that enable more comprehensive remote access and sophisticated data theft techniques, posing a heightened risk to users.

Distribution and Builder Tools

The widespread use of HookBot Fork has been facilitated by builder tools, allowing attackers to easily customize malware variants for specific campaigns. These tools are often sold on underground forums or shared through platforms like Telegram, enabling even less experienced attackers to deploy malicious applications. The malware is typically distributed via phishing campaigns or bundled within apps masquerading as legitimate tools from trusted brands.

Capabilities and Impact

HookBot Fork employs overlay attacks to deceive users, presenting fake login screens that mimic popular banking and cryptocurrency apps. It captures user credentials, intercepts SMS-based two-factor authentication codes, and can even automate malicious actions using Android accessibility permissions. Additionally, the malware's worm-like behavior enables it to propagate via messaging apps such as WhatsApp, further expanding its reach.


Known Variants

Known Variants

The primary variant of HookBot Fork is "Hook", an advanced fork of the Ermac malware family. Hook adds features like remote file manipulation and access to infected devices, extending its malicious capabilities beyond standard banking Trojans.

The primary variant of HookBot Fork is "Hook", an advanced fork of the Ermac malware family. Hook adds features like remote file manipulation and access to infected devices, extending its malicious capabilities beyond standard banking Trojans.

Mitigation Strategies

Mitigation Strategies

  • Educate users to install apps only from official app stores and avoid sideloading unverified applications.

  • Deploy mobile security solutions to detect and block overlay attacks and unauthorized activities.

  • Regularly update and patch Android operating systems and apps to address vulnerabilities.

  • Monitor network traffic for suspicious behavior, such as unauthorized outgoing messages or connections to malicious servers.

Targeted Industries or Sectors

Targeted Industries or Sectors

HookBot Fork primarily targets the financial sector, focusing on users of mobile banking and cryptocurrency applications. By impersonating well-known financial platforms, the malware aims to gain unauthorized access to sensitive accounts and personal data.

HookBot Fork primarily targets the financial sector, focusing on users of mobile banking and cryptocurrency applications. By impersonating well-known financial platforms, the malware aims to gain unauthorized access to sensitive accounts and personal data.

Associated Threat Actors

Associated Threat Actors

The HookBot Fork is linked to "DukeEugene", a threat actor associated with the development of both the Ermac and Hook malware families. This individual is known for selling these tools on underground forums and facilitating their use in widespread campaigns.

The HookBot Fork is linked to "DukeEugene", a threat actor associated with the development of both the Ermac and Hook malware families. This individual is known for selling these tools on underground forums and facilitating their use in widespread campaigns.

References