Summary:
SmokeLoader, which has been around since 2011, is a malware loader that’s still being actively used by cybercriminals. Recently, it’s been found exploiting outdated vulnerabilities in Microsoft Office documents, particularly old DOC and XLS files. These files are often sent through phishing emails, targeting users who haven’t updated their systems. Once SmokeLoader gets into a system, it acts as a gateway for other malware, like information stealers or ransomware. This makes it a serious threat for organizations, especially those with outdated security practices.

The malware takes advantage of human error and outdated security practices, relying on phishing emails to distribute infected files. These emails often appear legitimate, tricking users into opening malicious attachments that exploit unpatched vulnerabilities in older versions of Microsoft Office. SmokeLoader’s ability to deliver a wide range of secondary payloads, from keyloggers to ransomware, makes it a versatile tool for attackers. Its persistence over more than a decade highlights the effectiveness of its techniques and the ongoing challenges organizations face in maintaining cybersecurity hygiene.

Analyst Comments:
The fact that attackers are still using old vulnerabilities like CVE-2017-0199 and CVE-2017-11882 shows just how important it is for organizations to stay on top of updates. Even though patches have been available for years, plenty of systems are still unpatched, making them easy targets. SmokeLoader’s modular structure makes it even more dangerous because it can adapt to different types of attacks by downloading whatever payload is needed for the situation. It’s clear that this malware isn’t going away anytime soon, and businesses need to take it seriously by fixing their security gaps and teaching their employees how to avoid these traps.

Suggested Corrections:
To protect against SmokeLoader, there are a few key things organizations should be doing. First, patch management is critical—make sure all systems, especially Microsoft Office products, are fully updated to close the gaps attackers are using. Second, organizations should invest in better email security, like filtering systems, to catch these phishing attempts before they even reach employees. Another thing to consider is disabling macros by default in Office applications since macros are a common way for malware to sneak in. Employees also need regular training so they know how to spot phishing emails and avoid opening suspicious attachments. Lastly, endpoint security solutions that can detect and block malware activity are a must-have.

Link(s):
https://cybersecuritynews.com/smokeloader-malware-exploits-doc-xls/