Logging In, Not Breaking In: The New Face of Hacking

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity, the phrase “Hackers don’t hack, they log in” encapsulates a disturbing trend that modern cybercriminals increasingly rely on stolen credentials rather than sophisticated exploitation techniques. Stealer logs, generated from malware designed to extract sensitive information such as usernames, passwords, and session tokens, have become indispensable tools in the arsenal of identity-focused attackers. Let’s delve into how these logs are fueling modern cybercrime, backed by statistics, real-world examples, and actionable insights.

The Rise of Stealer Logs

Stealer logs are collections of data exfiltrated from infected devices, often packaged and sold on dark web marketplaces. According to a recent report by cybersecurity firm Group-IB, stealer logs account for more than 70% of initial access methods leveraged in breaches. These logs provide attackers with everything they need to bypass traditional defenses: valid credentials, multi-factor authentication tokens, browser cookies, and even autofill data.

Key Statistics:

• Credential Theft Surge: In 2023 alone, over 22 billion credentials were found circulating on the dark web, an increase of 37% from the previous year.
• Cost of Compromise: The average cost of a data breach involving stolen credentials stands at $4.5 million, according to IBM’s Cost of a Data Breach Report.
• Speed of Attack: Once credentials are obtained, attackers can use them to access systems within minutes, with 82% of breaches involving credentials occurring within hours of data theft.

Real-World Incidents

The Colonial Pipeline Ransomware Attack:

In May 2021, the Colonial Pipeline—a critical infrastructure entity in the U.S.—fell victim to a ransomware attack that led to fuel shortages across the country. Investigation revealed that the attackers gained initial access using a single stolen password purchased from a stealer log marketplace. Despite the presence of multi-factor authentication, the attackers exploited a lapse in implementation to gain access.

Uber Data Breach:

In 2022, Uber experienced a breach when an attacker used credentials found in stealer logs to infiltrate the company’s internal systems. By leveraging these credentials, the attacker accessed critical administrative tools and compromised the company’s data.

Stealer Gangs and Common Techniques

Stealer logs are not just isolated tools but are often the product of organized cybercrime groups specializing in stealing and selling credentials. These gangs leverage stealer malware and sophisticated distribution techniques to ensure maximum reach and profitability.

Prominent Stealer Gangs:

• SmokeLoader Operators: Known for distributing RedLine and Raccoon Stealer, these groups utilize phishing campaigns and malicious ads to infect victims and harvest data.
• Genesis Market: A notorious dark web marketplace that sells not just stolen credentials but also full browser profiles, enabling attackers to impersonate victims seamlessly.
• Vidar Operators: Focused on targeted campaigns, these groups deliver Vidar malware through cracked software and fake updates to infect devices.

Common Techniques:

1. Phishing Emails: Cybercriminals send emails with malicious attachments or links that download stealer malware upon clicking.
2. Malvertising: Attackers use legitimate-looking ads to redirect users to exploit kits or fake websites hosting stealer malware.
3. Bundled Software: Free software downloads often come bundled with stealer malware, infecting devices when users install the program.
4. Exploitation of Weak Passwords: Attackers use brute force or credential stuffing to access systems where stealer malware can be deployed.

How Stealer Logs Enable Identity Compromise

Stealer logs simplify the attack process, removing the need for sophisticated intrusion tactics. With a single log, attackers can:

1. Bypass Multi-Factor Authentication (MFA): Many stealer logs include session cookies or one-time passwords (OTPs), allowing attackers to sidestep MFA protections.
2. Pivot Across Systems: Access to one account often provides a foothold into other connected systems, thanks to single sign-on (SSO) integrations.
3. Launch Phishing Campaigns: Autofill data and contact lists make phishing campaigns more convincing and successful.

Living Off the Land (LotL) as a critical enabler

A critical enabler for identity-based attacks is the "Living Off the Land" (LotL) approach. LotL involves attackers leveraging legitimate tools and processes already present in the target environment to carry out their malicious activities. By using native tools such as PowerShell, Windows Management Instrumentation (WMI), or administrative credentials obtained from stealer logs, attackers can avoid triggering traditional security defenses.

LotL in Action:

• Persistence: Attackers use legitimate processes to maintain long-term access to systems without raising suspicion.
• Data Exfiltration: Native tools like certutil or built-in file transfer utilities are used to extract sensitive information.
• Lateral Movement: Attackers leverage existing network shares, remote desktop protocols, or SSO credentials to pivot across systems seamlessly.

This stealthy technique, combined with the abundance of data in stealer logs, creates a potent mix that undermines traditional detection mechanisms reliant on identifying unauthorized tools or behaviors.

Trends Amplifying the Threat

The Rise of “Malware-as-a-Service”:

Malware developers now offer stealer malware like RedLine, Raccoon, and Vidar as a service, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for aspiring cybercriminals.

Increasing Availability of Logs:

Dark web marketplaces and Telegram channels now sell stealer logs for as little as $10 per log, making them accessible to even low-level attackers.

Automation of Credential Abuse:

Tools like OpenBullet and SilverBullet automate the testing of stolen credentials across thousands of websites, enabling attackers to scale their operations rapidly.

Protecting Your Organization

1. Implement Strong MFA Policies: Enforce the use of phishing-resistant MFA methods, such as hardware security keys or FIDO2-compliant solutions.
2. Monitor for Threat Intelligence: Regularly scan dark web marketplaces and forums for stealer logs containing your organization’s credentials.
3. Enable Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR): Deploy EDR solutions to detect and mitigate stealer malware infections before data exfiltration occurs.
4. Conduct Regular Security Awareness Training: Educate employees on recognizing phishing attempts and avoiding unsafe downloads that might introduce malware.
5. Adopt Zero Trust Architecture: Limit access to resources based on strict identity verification and contextual factors like location and device health.
6. Use Password Managers: Encourage the use of password managers to generate and store complex, unique passwords that are less susceptible to theft.
7. Detect LotL Techniques: Implement tools and techniques to monitor for anomalous use of native tools, such as unusual PowerShell executions or unexpected WMI activity.

Conclusion

Hackers no longer need to rely on brute force or elaborate exploitation techniques. With the proliferation of stealer logs and the adoption of Living Off the Land techniques, the path of least resistance often involves simply logging in with stolen credentials and using legitimate tools for malicious purposes. By understanding the role of stealer logs, organized gangs, and LotL in modern identity attacks and implementing robust security measures, organizations can stay one step ahead of cybercriminals.

In the world of cybersecurity, vigilance, and proactive defense are key to protecting your most valuable assets: your data and identity.