TAG-100: The New Threat Actor Exploiting Open-Source Intelligence Tools

July 18, 2024 Security

A recent revelation by Alphabet's cybersecurity company, Chronicle, has exposed a new threat actor, TAG-100, who is actively exploiting open-source intelligence tools. The actor has been linked to spear-phishing attempts, targeting non-profit organizations that champion human rights and focus on exposing corruption.

The Threat Analysis Group (TAG) at Chronicle discovered the activities of TAG-100, who are believed to have been active since at least July 2024. They have been exploiting open-source intelligence (OSINT) tools to obtain valuable information, which is then used for malicious purposes.

The hackers have been using OSINT tools such as Harvester, Recon-ng, and Photon to gather email addresses, subdomains, URLs, and other data. They have also been using Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) tactics, techniques, and procedures to carry out their malicious activities.

The group was first noticed when they launched a spear-phishing campaign against a non-profit organization. The email, disguised as a legitimate request for information, contained a hidden malware payload. Once the victim clicked on the link, the payload was dropped onto their system, allowing the attackers to gain control.

The TAG-100 group is not just using OSINT tools for data gathering; they are also using them to cover their tracks. They are using a combination of legitimate services and malware to make their operations difficult to trace.

The most alarming aspect of TAG-100’s activities is the group’s focus on human rights and anti-corruption organizations. These organizations often hold sensitive information that could be used for various malicious activities.

Chronicle’s Threat Analysis Group has been tracking TAG-100’s activities and is working tirelessly to mitigate the threat they pose. However, the existence of this group raises critical concerns about the security of open-source tools and the need for more robust cybersecurity measures.

The discovery of TAG-100 serves as a reminder of the growing sophistication of cyber threats. As cybercriminals become more advanced, the need for comprehensive cybersecurity strategies becomes more critical. Organizations must ensure they have robust security measures in place to protect sensitive data and maintain the trust of those they serve.

In conclusion, the emergence of threat actors like TAG-100 exploiting open-source intelligence tools underscores the evolving landscape of cyber threats. It is crucial for organizations to stay vigilant and prioritize cybersecurity to protect their data from such sophisticated attacks.

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