New Ransomware Strain ‘CACTUS’ Exploits VPN Flaws To Infiltrate Networks
Also known as money mules; People that help conceal the identity of a cybercriminal by assisting in fraud by moving money illegally on their behalf. A user gives a combination of two or more credentials to gain accesss in a layered approach to securing data and information. A humerous image, video or phrase that is often altered and spread via the internet using social media.
Exploring the Dark Web Forum
HVNC is a nefarious variation of this technology, typically distributed through attack vectors such as email attachments, malicious websites, or exploit kits. The macOS hVNC has been available since April 2023, with updates made as recently as July 13, 2023, and was tested on a wide array of macOS versions from 10 through 13.2. It is being sold at a lifetime price of $60K with additional capabilities available for an added fee, on offer from an active Exploit forum member called RastaFarEye.
The onion domain name reflects the fact that, like the layers of an onion, the Tor browser consists of layers of protection. Tor encrypts traffic, masks your IP address, blocks trackers and browser fingerprinting, and doesn’t store a record of your activity. Positive Technologies estimates that about $600,000 worth of corporate network access is sold on the dark web on a quarterly basis. Interestingly, the share of expensive access lots priced above $5,000 almost halved.
Exploits, RATs, ATM malware, and other malicious tools were also discussed and offered for sale. It appears that Torum had loyal members, who rarely posted on other underground forums, at least with the same user handles. Torum’s ten most active users used 2-3 other forums on average, with Torum as their primary platform. As a result, it is easy to infect your machine by clicking links or downloading information.
For example, they prevent the same advertisement from being shown again to the visitor in a short period.
KickAss is one the most revolutionary and exclusive forums on the dark web, describing itself as the first platform for insider trading. It’s unique in that it operates out in the open and publicizes its actions to draw attention to itself, while most dark web forums try to stay as hidden as possible. It has a reputation among many hackers and threat intelligence companies as the place to trade information and establish credibility on the dark web.
The dark web forum is a hidden part of the internet that is not indexed by traditional search engines. It can be a haven for anonymity, allowing users to share information and engage in discussions largely unmonitored.
Topics in higher tiers are considered very sensitive where the most well-regarded actors coordinate, including potential nation state actors/groups. This forum is more collaborative with regard to the development of malicious tools, initial access actors, and ransomware actors, but the majority of this communication takes place off-forum in various encrypted chat services. Fewer data and malicious tools sales than XSS, but contains probably the most sophisticated group of threat actors on the planet.
Among those still operating are the prominent Russian-language marketplace Exploit.in, the “carding” forum Joker’s Stash and Hackforums, which offers guidance on how to become a hacker. Exploit, in particular, has gained nearly 1,000 new accounts over the past six weeks, with current membership at 44,433 user accounts as of May 13, according to research conducted by Digital Shadows exclusively for CyberScoop. The URL is xss.is, but to really get in you’ll have to access the page via Tor. You can use Google Translate to see what’s going on, just like with exploit.in. This forum is more about learning, so expect to get a cutting edge view of the techniques every day cybercrime people are using to hack.
Understanding the Dark Web
The dark web is made up of encrypted networks that require specific software to access, the most common being Tor (The Onion Router). This provides users with a level of anonymity that is often sought after by various subcultures and individuals.
Some notable features of the dark web include:
- Privacy: Users can engage without revealing their identities.
- Hidden Services: Websites that are only accessible through Tor connections.
- Variety of Content: From forums discussing technology to classified ads for illegal goods.
Functionality of a Dark Web Forum
A dark web forum serves as a digital meeting place for individuals with shared interests. These forums may focus on a variety of topics, including:
- Cybersecurity: Discussions about hacking techniques and defensive strategies.
- Cryptocurrency: Information on crypto investments, trades, and scams.
- Politics: Activism, whistleblowing, and political discussions often take place here.
- Illegal Activities: Some forums operate as marketplaces or centers for illegal transactions.
Features of Dark Web Forums
Dark web forums have several unique components that distinguish them from regular forums. These include:
- Anonymous Registration: Users can often sign up without providing personal details.
- Encryption: Communications on these forums are often encrypted to ensure privacy.
- Moderation: While some forums have moderators, others are completely unmonitored, leading to less accountability.
Risks and Considerations
While dark web forums offer anonymity, they also come with significant risks. Users must be aware of the following:
- Malware Risks: Downloading files from untrusted sources can lead to malware infections.
- Legal Repercussions: Engaging in illegal activities can bring legal actions.
- Scams: Many users fall victim to scams when engaging in transactions.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
1. Can I access dark web forums without special software?
No, most dark web forums require the use of specific software like Tor to ensure anonymity.
2. Are all activities in dark web forums illegal?
No, while some forums host illegal activities, many discussions are legal and focus on legitimate topics.
3. How can I ensure my safety on dark web forums?
Use a VPN, avoid sharing personal information, and be cautious of links and downloads.
- These forums provide a space for adherents of cybercrime and other illicit activities to meet, exchange ideas, purchase goods and services, and form connections with one another.
- On the other hand, Illicit Telegram groups require users to scroll through endless messages before finding a discussion thread that may be relevant.
- Commonly, the area of the internet that experts advise has the highest criminal activity is on dark web forums and markets.
- The affected platforms include Windows, JetBrains software, Microsoft Streaming Service Proxy, and Ubuntu kernels.
4. Can I trust the information I find on dark web forums?
Information can be misleading or false; always verify information through multiple sources.
The dark web forum represents a complex and multifaceted aspect of the internet, offering both opportunities for communication and significant risks. Understanding its workings can help users navigate this clandestine environment more safely.
