Raccoon Malware Aims to Steal Credentials of People Who Use Popular Apps

Security researchers have followed the evolution of a piece of infostealer malware named Raccoon, as it’s being developed and enhanced to work in as many scenarios as possible, including email clients, Internet browsers, and more.

Infostealers are a type of malware designed for a very specific purpose, to steal credentials from as many sources as possible. Raccoon is one such tool that’s developed as a malware-as-a-service, which means it’s available to cybercriminals through various forums. More precisely, it’s rented at $75 per week or $200 per month, and deploying it doesn’t require extensive technical knowledge.

The Racoon malware, initially spotted in the wild in April 2019, was built to steal all kinds of information, such as credentials, credit card information, and even cryptocurrency wallets. Since it’s distributed as malware-as-a-service, it’s continuously adapted and enhanced to cover more and more avenues. As it stands, it covers almost 60 apps including email clients, most Internet browsers, and major cryptocurrency wallets.

This malware can spread to unsuspecting victims in two ways. One is through exploit kits embedded into a website to infect users with unpatched browsers and operating systems. The other is through phishing campaigns that persuade people to open a Microsoft Office email and run a macro script.

What’s interesting about this malware is that its developers are expanding features to include ever-more attack vectors.

“Raccoon targets 29 chromium-based browsers including Google Chrome, Opera, etc that have the same folder structure and share a similar codebase, which leads to a similar way of handling sensitive data,” explain the researchers.

“The stealer also relies on the same methodology for Mozilla based applications. When looking for cryptocurrency wallets, Racoon targets popular applications like Exodus, Jaxx and more.”

While this relatively new malware is not all that complex and dangerous, the fast rate of development makes it a favorite for attackers, especially since it doesn’t require programming experience. The best ways for people and companies to stay safe is to keep devices and software up to date, to use a security solution, and to be wary of potential phishing campaigns.