February 25, 2025 | Impress IT Solutions | Endpoint Security & Vulnerability

Cybersecurity threats continue to evolve, and businesses in West Houston must remain vigilant against new attack methods. Impress IT Solutions has identified a rising malware campaign that spreads information stealers like Lumma and ACR Stealer by leveraging cracked versions of popular software.

How the Attack Works

According to recent cybersecurity reports, hackers are embedding malware into pirated software, tricking unsuspecting users into installing malicious programs. The AhnLab Security Intelligence Center (ASEC) has observed a surge in ACR Stealer infections since January 2025.

A critical aspect of this malware campaign is the use of a dead drop resolver technique, allowing attackers to retrieve command-and-control (C2) servers through legitimate platforms like Steam, Telegram’s Telegraph, Google Forms, and Google Slides.

“Threat actors encode the actual C2 domain in Base64 on a specific page,” ASEC reported. “The malware accesses this page, extracts the string, and uses it to execute malicious commands.”

What ACR Stealer Can Do

Once installed, ACR Stealer harvests sensitive data, including:

  • Web browser credentials
  • Cryptocurrency wallet extensions
  • Files stored on the compromised device

Additionally, other malware delivery methods have emerged, such as Microsoft Management Console (MMC) files disguised as Word documents, which execute PowerShell scripts to install Rhadamanthys stealer malware. One of the known vulnerabilities exploited in this campaign is CVE-2024-43572 (GrimResource), patched by Microsoft in October 2024.

The Risk to West Houston Businesses

Malware campaigns like this pose a significant threat to businesses in West Houston, where industries such as construction, manufacturing, IT, and logistics rely on secure data. Attackers use stolen credentials to infiltrate corporate networks, leading to data breaches, financial losses, and operational disruptions.

A report from Hudson Rock highlights the growing impact of stealer malware, revealing that over 30 million computers have been compromised in the past few years. Cybercriminals sell stolen credentials for as little as $10 per infected device, providing unauthorized access to corporate systems.

How Impress IT Solutions Protects Businesses

To combat these growing threats, Impress IT Solutions offers comprehensive cybersecurity solutions tailored to West Houston businesses, including:

  • Endpoint Security & Monitoring: Detects and prevents malware infections in real time.
  • Patch Management & Software Updates: Ensures all security vulnerabilities are promptly addressed.
  • Network Security Audits: Identifies and mitigates risks before cybercriminals exploit them.
  • Employee Awareness Training: Educates staff on avoiding cracked software and phishing scams.
  • Incident Response & Recovery: Rapid containment and recovery solutions to minimize downtime.

Stay Ahead of Cyber Threats

Cybercriminals constantly adapt their techniques, making it critical for businesses to stay proactive. Impress IT Solutions is committed to ensuring that West Houston businesses are equipped with the best security defenses against malware, information stealers, and emerging cyber threats.

Don’t wait for a security breach to take action. Contact Impress IT Solutions today to secure your business against evolving threats.

Protect Your Business. Secure Your Future.

 

FREE EXECUTIVE REPORT

Cyber Incident Prevention Best Practices For
Your Small Business