A newly identified malware, dubbed Zhong Stealer, has emerged as a significant threat to the fintech and cryptocurrency sectors.

Any.run researchers discovered zhong malware during a phishing campaign between December 20 and 24, 2024, the malware exploits customer support platforms like Zendesk to infiltrate organizations.

The attackers masquerade as customers, leveraging social engineering tactics to trick support agents into downloading malicious files.

Exploitation via Zendesk

The attack begins with the creation of fraudulent support tickets by attackers using newly registered accounts.

These tickets often include poorly written messages in Chinese and ZIP file attachments claiming to contain screenshots or additional details.

The ZIP files, named in Simplified or Traditional Chinese characters, conceal executable (.exe) files that initiate the malware upon opening.

Once executed, Zhong Stealer connects to a command-and-control (C2) server hosted in Hong Kong.

The malware downloads additional components, including a downloader disguised as a legitimate BitDefender Security updater, using a stolen but revoked digital certificate.

This deceptive approach enables the malware to bypass initial detection mechanisms effectively.

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Advanced Techniques for Persistence

Zhong Stealer employs multiple tactics to establish persistence on compromised systems.

It modifies Windows registry keys and schedules tasks via Task Scheduler to ensure it runs at startup, even after system reboots.

Additionally, it disables security event logging to evade detection during forensic analysis.

The malware conducts reconnaissance by querying system properties such as language settings, hostnames, and proxy configurations.

It also scans browser extensions and saved credentials from popular browsers like Brave and Edge/Internet Explorer.

Once sensitive data is harvested, Zhong exfiltrates it to its C2 server over non-standard network ports like port 1131, further complicating detection efforts.

The Zhong Stealer campaign underscores the growing sophistication of cyber threats targeting fintech and cryptocurrency companies.

By exploiting human vulnerabilities through customer support platforms, attackers bypass traditional security measures.

The malware’s ability to steal credentials and sensitive data poses severe risks for organizations handling financial transactions and digital assets.

To defend against threats like Zhong Stealer, organizations must adopt proactive cybersecurity measures:

• Train customer support teams to recognize phishing attempts and avoid opening suspicious attachments.
• Implement zero-trust security policies to restrict file execution from unverified sources.
• Monitor network traffic for unusual activity, particularly connections to non-standard ports associated with C2 servers.
• Utilize advanced malware analysis tools like ANY.RUN’s Interactive Sandbox for real-time threat detection and behavioral analysis.

The Zhong Stealer incident highlights the critical need for vigilance in cybersecurity practices within the fintech and cryptocurrency sectors.

By combining technical defenses with employee training, organizations can mitigate the risks posed by evolving malware campaigns like this one.

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