CyberWire Daily

Riding the hype for new Arc browser. [Rsearch Saturday]

Jun 8, 2024

Jérôme Segura, Senior Director of Threat Intelligence at Malwarebytes discusses how cybercriminals are exploiting the hype around the new Arc browser by distributing malware through deceptive Google search ads. They use techniques like embedding malware in image files and utilizing the MEGA cloud platform, emphasizing the need for caution with sponsored search results and the effectiveness of Endpoint Detection and Response systems.

27:51

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Episode guests

Jérôme Segura

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Quick takeaways

Cybercriminals exploit Arc browser hype through deceptive Google search ads, distributing malware disguised as the browser.

Implementing DNS filtering and centralized software repositories can enhance security against malicious ad campaigns.

Deep dives

Attack Using Fake Browser Ads

Threat actors exploit Google search ads to lure users searching for legitimate software like Arc browser. By creating convincing ads with legitimate-looking URLs and logos, users are misled into clicking. These ads redirect users to malicious sites with subtly altered domain names, a tactic known as typosquatting. Once clicked, users unknowingly download and install malware disguised as the desired software.

Intro

2min

Threat Actors Exploit Arc Browser Hype

10min

Discussing Cyber Attackers' Creative Use of AI and Impersonation in Google Ads

6min

Addressing the Issue of Malicious Ads and Recommendations for Mitigation

5min

Analysis of Threat Actors and Newly Released Arc Browser

3min

Jérôme Segura, Senior Director of Threat Intelligence at Malwarebytes, is discussing their work on "Threat actors ride the hype for newly released Arc browser." The Arc browser, newly released for Windows, has quickly garnered positive reviews but has also attracted cybercriminals who are using deceptive Google search ads to distribute malware disguised as the browser.

These malicious campaigns exploit the hype around Arc, using techniques like embedding malware in image files and utilizing the MEGA cloud platform for command and control, highlighting the need for caution with sponsored search results and the effectiveness of Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems.

The research can be found here: