FERRET Malware: North Korean Hackers Target macOS via Job Interviews

Govind Kumar
Govind Kumar

Co-founder/CPO

 
February 4, 2025 2 min read

North Korean hackers are getting sneaky, using fake job interviews to trick macOS users into downloading malware. This new tactic, which involves posing as recruiters on LinkedIn, highlights the ever-evolving threat landscape and the importance of cybersecurity awareness – even in the hiring process. Source: Hacker News Cybersecurity marketers, listen up! A new report from SentinelOne reveals that North Korean threat actors are using a sophisticated tactic to deliver macOS malware, known as the FERRET family. They are posing as recruiter to trick users into doing video assessment where goal is to drop a Golang-based backdoor and stealer that's designed to drain the victim's MetaMask Wallet and run commands on the host.

Why This Matters to YOU

  • Target Shift: This shows that hackers will target anyone using a computer.

  • Evolving Tactics: It shows that Hackers are more intelligent now. They can target individual to large industry. They can use any fake identity for achieving their goal.

  • Brand Impact: A security breach related to a fake job posting, especially if it targets your brand, can severely damage your reputation.

Key Takeaways

  • The "FERRET" Malware: This macOS malware family includes components like FRIENDLYFERRET and FROSTYFERRET_UI, used for persistence and downloading further payloads from command-and-control servers.

  • LinkedIn Lures: The attacks start with attackers posing as recruiters on LinkedIn, urging victims to complete a video assessment.

  • Fake GitHub Issues: To increase distribution, these hackers are even opening fake issues on legitimate GitHub repositories, targeting developers in addition to job seekers.

  • Supply Chain Attacks: The group is also using malicious npm packages like "postcss-optimizer" (containing the BeaverTail malware) to infect developer systems.

What Can Cybersecurity Marketers Do?

  1. Awareness Training: It is important to aware everyone not to click unknown sources. And to make any important decision.

  2. Vendor Security: Ensure your third-party vendors and partners have robust security measures. A breach in their systems could expose your data.

  3. Monitor Brand Reputation: Keep a close eye on your brand's online reputation. Address any security-related concerns promptly.

  4. Promote Security Best Practices: Share tips and resources on staying safe online with your audience.

GrackerAI Insight:

Staying up-to-date on the latest threats is critical for cybersecurity marketers. GrackerAI can help you monitor security news and quickly generate relevant, SEO-optimized content to keep your audience informed and engaged.

Govind Kumar
Govind Kumar

Co-founder/CPO

 

Product visionary and cybersecurity expert who architected GrackerAI's 40+ portal templates that generate 100K+ monthly visitors. Transforms complex security data into high-converting SEO assets that buyers actually need.

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