North Korean Hackers Exploit CyberLink Software in Global Supply-Chain Attack
Malicious CyberLink Installer Targets Users Worldwide
North Korean state-backed hackers have launched a sophisticated supply-chain attack by distributing a trojanized version of a legitimate CyberLink application. The Taiwanese software developer, known for multimedia tools like PowerDVD and AI facial recognition technology, confirmed the compromise of one of its video editing apps, Promeo.
Key Details of the Attack
- Attack Vector: Modified installer file hosted on CyberLink’s legitimate update infrastructure
- Malware Identified: Microsoft tracks the threat as “LambLoad”
- First Detected: Suspicious activity observed as early as October 20, 2023
- Affected Devices: Over 100 systems across Japan, Taiwan, Canada, and the United States
Microsoft’s Findings and Attribution
Microsoft’s Threat Intelligence team reported that attackers used a valid CyberLink code signing certificate to authenticate the malicious executable. The company has since added this certificate to its disallowed certificate list to prevent further exploitation.
Connection to North Korean Threat Actors
Microsoft attributes the attack with “high confidence” to Diamond Sleet, a North Korean hacking group linked to the infamous Lazarus collective. This group specializes in:
- Corporate espionage
- Financial theft
- Network destruction
- Supply-chain compromises
CyberLink’s Response and Security Measures
CyberLink spokesperson Melinda Ziemer stated that the company identified and removed the malware from Promeo’s installation file on November 11. The company implemented additional security protocols to prevent future incidents and confirmed no other applications were affected.
Ongoing Threats and Mitigation
While Microsoft hasn’t detected active hands-on-keyboard activity, Diamond Sleet typically:
- Steals sensitive data from compromised systems
- Infiltrates software development environments
- Moves laterally to exploit additional victims
- Establishes persistent access
Microsoft has notified affected Microsoft Defender for Endpoint customers and CyberLink about the compromise. The full extent of the attack’s impact remains under investigation.
Last Updated: November 29, 2023
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