Security researchers at Kaspersky Lab have discovered what’s likely to be another state-sponsored malware strain, and this one is more advanced than most. Nicknamed Slingshot, the code spies on PCs through a multi-layer attack that targets MikroTik routers. It first replaces a library file with a malicious version that downloads other malicious components, and then launches a clever two-pronged attack on the computers themselves. One, Canhadr, runs low-level kernel code that effectively gives the intruder free rein, including deep access to storage and memory; the other, GollumApp, focuses on the user level and includes code to coordinate efforts, manage the file system and keep the malware alive.
Kaspersky describes these two elements as “masterpieces,” and for good reason. For one, it’s no mean feat to run hostile kernel code without crashes. Slingshot also stores its malware files in an encrypted virtual file system, encrypts every text string in its modules, calls services directly (to avoid tripping security software checks) and even shuts components down when forensic tools are active. If there’s a common method of detecting malware or identifying its behavior, Slingshot likely has a defense against it. It’s no wonder that the code has been active since at least 2012—no one knew it was there.
The malware can effectively steal whatever it wants, including keyboard strokes, network traffic, passwords, and screenshots. It’s not certain how Slingshot gets into a system besides taking advantage of the router management software, but Kaspersky pointed to “several” instances
The combination of this sophistication with the spying focus led Kaspersky to believe that it’s likely the creation of a state agency—it rivals the Regin malware GCHQ used to spy on Belgian carrier Belgacom. And while text clues hint that English speakers might be responsible, the culprit isn’t clear. Just shy of 100 individuals, government outfits and institutions fell prey to Slingshot in countries including Afghanistan, Iraq, Jordan, Kenya, Libya, and Turkey. It could be one of the Five Eyes countries (Australia, Canada, New Zealand, the UK, and the US) keeping watch on nations with significant terrorism issues, but that’s far from certain.
Slingshot should be fixed as of recent MikroTik router firmware updates. The concern is that other router makers might be affected. If they are, there’s a possibility that Slingshot has a far wider reach and is still taking sensitive data.
