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Malicious Code on GitHub: A Threat to Your Cryptocurrency Holdings
The Risks of Using GitHub for Cryptocurrency Development
The GitHub code you use to build a trendy application or patch existing bugs might just be used to steal your bitcoin (BTC) or other crypto holdings, according to a Kaspersky report.
GitHub is a popular tool among developers of all types, but even more so among crypto-focused projects, where a simple application may generate millions of dollars in revenue.
The “GitVenom” Campaign: A Two-Year-Old Malware
The report warned users of a “GitVenom” campaign that’s been active for at least two years but is steadily on the rise, involving planting malicious code in fake projects on the popular code repository platform.
How the Attack Works
The attack starts with seemingly legitimate GitHub projects — like making Telegram bots for managing bitcoin wallets or tools for computer games.
Each comes with a polished README file, often AI-generated, to build trust. But the code itself is a Trojan horse: For Python-based projects, attackers hide nefarious script after a bizarre string of 2,000 tabs, which decrypts and executes a malicious payload.
For JavaScript, a rogue function is embedded in the main file, triggering the launch attack. Once activated, the malware pulls additional tools from a separate hacker-controlled GitHub repository.
The Payload
Once the system is infected, various other programs kick in to execute the exploit. A Node.js stealer harvests passwords, crypto wallet details, and browsing history, then bundles and sends them via Telegram. Remote access trojans like AsyncRAT and Quasar take over the victim’s device, logging keystrokes and capturing screenshots.
A “clipper” also swaps copied wallet addresses with the hackers’ own, redirecting funds. One such wallet netted 5 BTC — worth $485,000 at the time — in November alone.
Global Reach and Impact
Active for at least two years, GitVenom has hit users hardest in Russia, Brazil, and Turkey, though its reach is global, per Kaspersky.
How to Protect Yourself
By scrutinizing any code before running it, verifying the project’s authenticity, and being suspicious of overly polished READMEs or inconsistent commit histories.
Conclusion
The attack is a serious threat to cryptocurrency holders, and it is essential to be aware of the risks involved in using GitHub for development. By being vigilant and taking the necessary precautions, you can protect your cryptocurrency holdings from falling prey to these malicious attacks.
FAQs
Q: What is GitVenom? A: GitVenom is a two-year-old malware that targets GitHub users, specifically those in the cryptocurrency space, to steal their bitcoin and other crypto holdings.
Q: How does the attack work? A: The attack starts with seemingly legitimate GitHub projects, which are actually Trojan horses containing malicious code. The code is designed to steal passwords, crypto wallet details, and browsing history, and to take over the victim’s device.
Q: What is the impact of the attack? A: The attack has already resulted in the theft of 5 BTC worth $485,000, and it is expected to continue to spread and evolve, potentially with new variations and tactics.
Q: How can I protect myself from this attack? A: To protect yourself, you should scrutinize any code before running it, verify the project’s authenticity, and be suspicious of overly polished READMEs or inconsistent commit histories.
Q: How can I report suspicious activity on GitHub? A: You can report suspicious activity to GitHub’s security team, which will investigate and take appropriate action to prevent further harm.
Q: What should I do if I suspect I have been a victim of this attack? A: If you suspect you have been a victim of this attack, you should immediately change your passwords, check your accounts for suspicious activity, and consider seeking the help of a cybersecurity expert to assess and remediate the situation.
