QBot malware abuses Windows WordPad EXE to infect devices

silversurfer

Super Moderator
Thread author
Verified
Top Poster
Staff Member
Malware Hunter
Aug 17, 2014
11,062
The QBot malware operation has started to abuse a DLL hijacking flaw in the Windows 10 WordPad program to infect computers, using the legitimate program to evade detection by security software.

Security researcher and Cryptolaemus member ProxyLife told BleepingComputer that a new QBot phishing campaign began abusing a DLL hijacking vulnerability in the Windows 10 WordPad executable, write.exe.

While BleepingComputer has not seen the original phishing emails, ProxyLife told us they contain a link to download a file. When a person clicks on the link it will download a random named ZIP archive from a remote host will be downloaded. This ZIP file contains two files: document.exe (the Windows 10 WordPad executable) and a DLL file named edputil.dll (used for the DLL hijack).
 

NoVirusThanks

From NoVirusThanks
Verified
Developer
Well-known
Aug 23, 2012
293
Thanks for sharing and interesting sample. The malicious DLL file is hidden, a quick test with OSArmor (Default Protection):

win11-x64-tests-2023-05-30-22-50-50.png
 

About us

  • MalwareTips is a community-driven platform providing the latest information and resources on malware and cyber threats. Our team of experienced professionals and passionate volunteers work to keep the internet safe and secure. We provide accurate, up-to-date information and strive to build a strong and supportive community dedicated to cybersecurity.

User Menu

Follow us

Follow us on Facebook or Twitter to know first about the latest cybersecurity incidents and malware threats.

Top