The Socks5Systemz botnet has been revealed as the backbone for the illicit proxy service PROXY.AM, compromising over 85,000 devices globally. This botnet enables cybercriminals to conduct anonymous operations, including fraud, data theft, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. Continue to read this Cybersecurity Threat Advisory to see how you can safeguard against this threat.
What is the threat?
Socks5Systemz is a sophisticated malware botnet that converts infected devices into proxy exit nodes, allowing attackers to reroute their traffic and hide their true locations. Distributed through loaders like PrivateLoader, SmokeLoader, and Amadey, the malware gains persistence on systems and can deploy additional harmful payloads. Hacking unprotected devices enables cybercriminals to perform covert activities, from credential theft to large-scale DDoS campaigns. Its adaptability and reliance on exploiting weak system defenses make it a significant cybersecurity threat.
Why is it noteworthy?
Socks5Systemz uses PROXY.AM offers cybercriminals an extensive anonymous proxy network for executing illicit activities while evading detection. This mirrors tactics seen in botnets like Gafgyt, which also leverage vulnerable systems—such as misconfigured Docker Remote API servers—to expand their reach. The growing trend of exploiting insecure systems to build proxy infrastructures underscores the need for stronger defenses against emerging threats. Geographically, the botnet’s activity is concentrated in countries such as India, Indonesia, Ukraine, Algeria, Vietnam, and several others, with notable hotspots in regions with weaker cybersecurity practices.
What is the exposure or risk?
Organizations face several risks due to Socks5Systemz, including the following:
- Bandwidth consumption: The botnet utilizes infected systems’ resources, causing reduced performance and increased operational costs.
- Reputation damage: Businesses risk association with cybercrime if their systems are implicated in malicious activities.
- Data breaches: The malware allows attackers to steal sensitive information or deploy further malicious payloads.
- Secondary exploitation: Compromised devices could serve as launch points for additional attacks by other malware.
What are the recommendations?
Barracuda recommends the following actions to combat the Socks5Systemz botnet threat:
- Utilize endpoint protection tools to detect and block malware infections.
- Patch vulnerabilities in software and firmware to prevent exploitation by malware loaders.
- Implement traffic analysis tools to identify unusual behaviors linked to proxy activity.
- Educate employees on recognizing attempts and other attack vectors.
- Remove compromised devices from networks to prevent further infections or abuse.
- Prepare strategies to respond quickly to infections, limiting potential damage.
Reference:
For more in-depth information, please visit the following link:
If you have any questions about this Cybersecurity Threat Advisory, please contact Barracuda XDR’s Security Operations Center.
