Researchers have recently uncovered a new malicious Python package named “CryptoAITools,” posing as a cryptocurrency trading tool but engineered to steal sensitive information and drain users’ crypto wallets. The malware was distributed via the Python Package Index (PyPI) and on GitHub, managing to garner over 1,300 downloads before it was removed from PyPI.
CryptoAITools targets both Windows and macOS systems, executing its malicious activities immediately upon installation. Through a deceptive graphical user interface (GUI), the malware distracts victims while silently stealing data in the background. Upon execution, CryptoAITools first determines the target operating system, initiating the appropriate malware version for either Windows or macOS.
The malware relies on a helper function that downloads additional payloads from a fake website, “coinsw[.]app,” presented as a legitimate trading bot service. This approach allows the threat actor to evade detection while dynamically expanding the malware’s capabilities through updated payloads. The use of a fake GUI setup process further hides the malicious behavior, enabling the malware to conduct a multi-stage infection without alerting the user. The malware is designed to conduct extensive data theft, targeting various sensitive files and credentials, especially those linked to cryptocurrency assets.
It gathers data from wallets such as Bitcoin, Ethereum, Exodus, and Atomic, as well as saved passwords, browsing history, and cryptocurrency extensions. On macOS, the stealer goes a step further, collecting data from Apple Notes and Stickies. All collected information is uploaded to the gofile[.]io file-sharing service before the local copy is erased, ensuring that traces of the data theft are minimized on the victim’s device.
Additionally, Checkmarx has reported that the same stealer malware is distributed on GitHub under a repository named “Meme Token Hunter Bot,” advertised as an AI-powered trading bot for meme tokens on the Solana network. The campaign targets cryptocurrency users who may choose to clone and run the code directly from GitHub, thus widening the attacker’s reach. A Telegram channel managed by the threat actors further promotes the GitHub repository, offering subscriptions and technical support. This multi-platform attack strategy enables the attackers to reach a broad audience, impacting the cryptocurrency community on a global scale.
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