Info-Stealers 101
Hey everyone! It’s my first post, and I’m trying to keep it as light as I can.
Let’s talk about
info-stealers. Those sneaky cyber threats that swipe your passwords and personal info without you even noticing!
I’ve been seeing these attacks pop up all over the place lately, so I figured it was a good topic to chat about!
1. What Are Info-Stealers?
Info-stealers are malware designed to silently collect sensitive information from your devices. They target data like saved browser passwords, session cookies, and auto-fill data. Once stolen, this information is sent to the attacker’s server, where it can be sold on dark web platforms or used for account takeovers or identity theft.
Unlike phishing attacks that rely on user interaction, info-stealers operate in the background—you won’t even know they’re working.
Data-Stealing Malware Infection Statistics (2020-2023)
Image source: Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence
2. How Do Info-Stealers Infect Devices?
Drive-by downloads
Just visiting a malicious website can trigger a hidden download prompt or a disguised file download. But installation still require user interaction. So, be cautious with unrecognized file in your machine.
Pirated software
Cracked applications frequently come with malware, including info-stealers. Using unauthorized software can jeopardize your data. P.S. Be cautious with all the software you’ve bought from Shopee!
Malicious email attachments
Files disguised as invoices or PDFs can contain hidden malware that installs when opened. Always verify the sender's information before opening any attachments!
3. What Data Do Info-Stealers Target?
Saved browser passwords
All login credentials stored in browsers like Chrome and Firefox are vulnerable to theft.
Session cookies
Attackers can use these cookies to hijack your active sessions, even if you log out.
Auto-fill data
Info-stealers can grab your saved addresses, phone numbers, and credit card details.
Cryptocurrency wallets
Stored wallet keys can be stolen, allowing attackers to empty your crypto funds.
Email and VPN credentials
Hackers can use these credentials to gain unauthorized access to personal or corporate networks.
4. Info-Stealer Ecosystem
Image source: Australian Cyber Security Centre
5. Tips to Stay Safe from Info-Stealers
Use a password manager
Avoid storing passwords in your browser; use a password manager instead.
Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA)
MFA adds an extra layer of protection, even if your passwords are compromised.
Monitor account activity
Check for unauthorized logins regularly and act quickly if you see anything suspicious.
Avoid pirated software
Stick to legitimate software to reduce the risk of infection.
Install security software
Use antivirus or endpoint protection tools to detect malware.
And that’s the basics of infostealers.
In conclusion, infostealers are a stealthy type of malware that silently collects sensitive data from your device, such as saved passwords, financial details, and even gaming accounts. Once they’re active, they can harvest large amounts of personal information, which cybercriminals may use for account hacks, identity theft, or selling the data on the black market.
Ever wondered just how much sensitive data infostealers can grab?
In my latest post, I explore a hefty log captured by an infostealer, showcasing the sheer scale of stolen data.
This one log alone holds over 5,000 Valorant account credentials and a massive collection of over one million browser-saved credentials from countless users.
Go checkout
🔗 Inside 5K Stolen Valorant Credentials
.jpg)
