FAKEUPDATES
Intelligence Profile
FAKEUPDATES is a downloader written in JavaScript that communicates via HTTP. Supported payload types include executables and JavaScript. It writes the payloads to disk prior to launching them. FAKEUPDATES has led to further compromise via additional malware families that include CHTHONIC, DRIDEX, EMPIRE, KOADIC, DOPPELPAYMER, and AZORULT.
FAKEUPDATES has been heavily used by UNC1543, a financially motivated group.
Threat Analysis
FAKEUPDATES is a high-sophistication threat actor of undetermined national origin, engaged in cyber operations with a primary motivation of financial.
Financially motivated threat actors like FAKEUPDATES prioritize monetary gain through methods such as ransomware deployment, banking trojans, cryptocurrency theft, BEC scams, or credential harvesting for resale on underground markets.
With high sophistication, FAKEUPDATES is capable of targeted intrusions using adapted commodity tools alongside custom implants, maintaining operational security and evading standard detection mechanisms.