What is PDFixers malware?
PDFixers malware is a dangerous and sophisticated cybersecurity threat known for targeting users through malicious PDF documents. It typically acts as a trojan, leveraging crafted PDF files to deliver payloads that compromise systems, steal sensitive data, or give attackers remote access. The malware often masquerades as legitimate documents, making it especially deceptive. Due to its evasive tactics and potential damage, it presents a high-level threat to individuals and organizations alike.
When was PDFixers first discovered?
PDFixers was first identified in the wild in 2020 by multiple security researchers. Its clear threat and ability to evolve have kept it relevant in cybersecurity discussions, indicating persistent activity and adaptations to bypass detection efforts.
Who created PDFixers?
The creators of PDFixers malware remain unknown, but indications suggest it could be linked to cybercrime organizations specializing in phishing and ransomware delivery. Attribution is challenging due to the lack of distinct signatures tying it to specific actors.
What does PDFixers target?
PDFixers primarily targets Windows operating systems, but users of other platforms remain at risk if malicious documents are opened using vulnerable PDF viewers. It especially affects industries dealing with documents heavily, such as legal, healthcare, and finance sectors, by exploiting their routine use of PDFs in workflows.
PDFixers distribution method
PDFixers spreads via phishing campaigns, malicious email attachments, and website redirect chains. Users are typically tricked into opening a seemingly benign PDF document which then triggers the installation of the malware payload. The malware may also exploit known vulnerabilities within outdated PDF reader software.
Technical analysis of PDFixers malware
PDFixers executes a multi-layered infection process. Upon opening the malicious PDF, the malware executes embedded code, often JavaScript, to exploit system vulnerabilities. The payload typically creates persistence mechanisms, such as registry key modifications or scheduled tasks, ensuring it survives system reboots. It also employs obfuscation techniques to avoid detection by antivirus tools.
Tactics, Techniques & Procedures (TTPs)
PDFixers has been associated with MITRE ATT&CK techniques such as T1566.001 (Spear Phishing Attachment) and T1055 (Process Injection). Its evasion capabilities include disabling security tools and using encrypted communications.
Indicators of Compromise (IoCs)
Malicious domains hosting infected PDFs
Hashes of known malicious PDFs: e7d9c5a8f661f6bafc164d20a59...
IP activity from compromised systems to Command-and-Control (C2) servers
How to know if you’re infected with PDFixers?
Signs of infection include sudden system slowdowns while working with PDFs, unexpected network communication with unfamiliar servers, and unauthorized modifications to system files. Users may also notice PDF readers crashing or behaving erratically.
PDFixers removal instructions
For manual removal, disconnect the affected system from the network to prevent further spread or data exfiltration. Use reputable endpoint detection and response (EDR) tools to identify and eliminate the malware. Huntress strongly recommends conducting a full system scan and resetting any credentials potentially compromised during the attack.
Is PDFixers still active?
Yes, PDFixers continues to pose a threat as it evolves with new variants. Security researchers frequently observe its presence in phishing campaigns leveraging updated attack methods.
Mitigation & prevention strategies
To prevent PDFixers infections, organizations should enforce robust security awareness training (e.g., phishing simulations). Always update PDF reader software, enable multifactor authentication (MFA), and monitor network activity for signs of compromise. Huntress’ 24/7 Security Operations Center and Managed ITDR solutions can help identify and eliminate these threats effectively.
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