From Search Results to Malware Lures: SEO Poisoning
As search engines became the first point of contact for internet, threat actors are leveraging it for their advantage to spread malware using SEO Poisoning. Loopholes and vulnerabilities in SEO algorithms are used to improve ranking of fake or compromised websites to deceive search engines and unsuspecting users. Malvertising are also used to trick users into these websites.
What is SEO?
SEO, or Search Engine Optimization, is like the secret sauce for getting noticed online. It’s all about making your website show up higher in search results, so more people can find you when they’re looking for what you offer. Think of it as giving your online presence a boost so that you stand out in the crowd. You tweak your website’s content, structure, and technical bits to make search engines love it, which means more folks stumble upon your corner of the internet. It’s like waving a big, flashy sign that says, “Hey, come check me out!” SEO is the key to getting your voice heard amidst the noise of the internet, helping you connect with the right people at the right time.
SEO Poisoning
SEO poisoning is like a digital trap set by cyber tricksters, waiting for unsuspecting users to stumble into it. Picture yourself scrolling through search results, looking for answers or cool stuff online. You click on what seems like a legit link, expecting to find what you’re after—a great blog, a handy tutorial, or maybe a sweet deal. But instead of landing where you wanted, you’re whisked away to a sketchy website, like a back alley in the internet world.How
How it Works
- Exploiting Hot Keywords: Malicious actors identify popular keywords and sneak them into compromised web pages. When users search for these terms, they get directed to malicious sites instead of the legitimate ones they’re expecting.
- Compromising Legitimate Sites: Threat actors exploit vulnerabilities in websites, like outdated software or missing security measures, to insert malicious code or links. These unsuspecting sites then become unwitting vehicles for spreading malware to innocent visitors.
- Cloaking Techniques: SEO poisoners use cloaking to show search engines one thing while displaying something else to users. This deceitful tactic lets them manipulate search rankings while keeping their malicious activities hidden.
- Phishing and Malware Distribution: Once users land on these rogue websites, they might encounter phishing scams, bogus software downloads, or malware-laden content. The aim? To steal personal info, install malware on devices, or hijack browsers for further exploitation.
Recent Cyber Attacks that weaponized SEO Poisoning
- SEO Poisoning to Domain Control: In this article by DFIR Report, SEO Poisoning was used for Gootloader infection. The Gootloader deployed Cobalt strike beacons to the registry of the infected machine and executed it in memory. The attacker also gained RDP access to the system and compromised domain controllers.
- SEO#LURKER Attack Campaign: WinSCP lures were used to trick the users to download the infected software. It installed the malware along with the legitimate WinSCP. Winscp is an open source file manger software which is very popular among IT administrators. Given below is the attack chain
Detect and Stop
- Be Cautious with Search Results: When searching for information online, be cautious of search results. Be careful when it is too good to be true. Beware of unfamiliar websites that appear at the top of the list. Stick to reputable websites and sources you trust.
- Verify Website Authenticity: Pay attention to the website’s domain name and URL. Make sure it matches the legitimate source you intended to visit. Be cautious of misspelled URLs or slight variations that may indicate a phishing scam or spoofed website.
- Watch Out for Suspicious Pop-ups: If you encounter unexpected pop-up windows or advertisements while browsing the web, proceed with caution. Close any suspicious pop-ups immediately to avoid potential malware infections.
- Use Security Software: Install reputable antivirus and antimalware software on your devices. This will detect and block malicious threats, including those spread through SEO poisoning. Keep your security software up to date and perform regular scans to identify and remove any malware infections.