BlackPOS Malware: Analysis, Detection, Removal

What is BlackPOS malware?

BlackPOS malware, also known as a Point-of-Sale (POS) malware, is a malicious software designed to steal payment card data directly from POS systems. Used primarily to target retail environments, BlackPOS extracts sensitive information like cardholder names, card numbers, and expiration dates. This malware played a significant role in major breaches of large retailers by exploiting vulnerabilities in POS terminals, causing significant financial and reputational damage.

When was BlackPOS first discovered?

BlackPOS was first identified in 2013 after it was found to be involved in a series of high-profile data breaches, including the Target Corporation attack. Security researchers at Kaspersky Lab and other firms uncovered its operations, emphasizing its potent capabilities to harvest payment card data on a massive scale.

Who created BlackPOS?

While the exact creator of BlackPOS remains unidentified, the malware is believed to have originated in underground Russian hacking forums. It has been linked to multiple cybercriminal groups specializing in targeting retailers and payment processors.

What does BlackPOS target?

BlackPOS predominantly targets POS systems in retail businesses, hospitality industries, and other establishments that process large volumes of credit and debit card transactions. These industries make lucrative targets due to their centralized use of payment terminals and the high sensitivity of stored payment data.

BlackPOS distribution method

BlackPOS is typically distributed through stolen or weak administrator credentials, phishing campaigns, or exploitation of vulnerable POS systems. Once inside a network, attackers deploy the malware to POS devices, enabling it to silently collect payment data as transactions are processed.

Technical analysis of BlackPOS malware

BlackPOS operates by infiltrating POS endpoints and memory scraping to retrieve unencrypted payment card data. After compromising a system, it monitors the memory space of running processes to detect patterns resembling cardholder information. The malware often uses hardcoded URLs or IP addresses to exfiltrate the stolen data to attacker-controlled servers.

Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)

Memory scraping: BlackPOS scans volatile memory for cardholder track data.
Credential abuse: Often exploits stolen administrator credentials or default settings.
Persistence methods: Deploys as a service to ensure continued access.
Data exfiltration: Transmits stolen data via encrypted communication channels.

Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)

Suspicious processes running on POS systems
Unusual network communication to known malicious domains or foreign IP addresses
Presence of unauthorized binaries or files on POS devices

How to know if you’re infected with BlackPOS?

Signs of a BlackPOS infection include irregular activities on POS devices, such as slowed performance, abnormal memory usage, or unauthorized outbound network communication. Additionally, financial anomalies, like a rapid increase in fraudulent transaction reports, can indicate an ongoing compromise.

BlackPOS removal instructions

To remove BlackPOS, isolate the infected system immediately to prevent further data exfiltration. Use a trusted Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) solution, like Huntress Managed EDR, to analyze and resolve the infection. Perform a forensic review of the impacted systems, change all credentials, and ensure that the POS firmware/software is up-to-date.

Is BlackPOS still active?

Yes, BlackPOS remains a persistent threat. Variants of this malware continue to evolve, leveraging new tactics to bypass security measures. Retailers and other organizations must remain vigilant in monitoring and patching vulnerabilities.

Mitigation & prevention strategies

Implement advanced endpoint protection and monitoring solutions to detect suspicious activity early. Regularly update POS systems and apply patches to address known vulnerabilities. Enforce strict access control policies, multifactor authentication, and employee training to reduce the risk of exploitation through phishing. Huntress’ 24/7 SOC can help organizations identify and contain POS threats like BlackPOS before significant damage occurs.

BlackPOS Malware FAQs

BlackPOS is a Point-of-Sale malware designed to steal payment card data from retail systems. It works by infiltrating POS systems, retrieving cardholder information through memory scraping, and exfiltrating the data to a remote server controlled by attackers.

BlackPOS infects systems by exploiting weak credentials, phishing attacks, or vulnerabilities in POS software. Once inside a network, attackers deploy the malware to execute data theft operations on targeted POS endpoints.

Yes, BlackPOS and its variants continue to pose a threat. Cybercriminals regularly adapt the malware to bypass security defenses, making robust detection, monitoring, and preventive measures necessary.

Organizations can protect themselves by regularly updating POS systems, implementing advanced EDR technology, enforcing multifactor authentication, and conducting employee cybersecurity awareness training. Huntress’ 24/7 monitoring services can further reduce risks by detecting and responding to threats like BlackPOS.