Cybersecurity researchers have recently uncovered a sophisticated scam campaign that targets professionals in the Web3 space using fake video conferencing apps. These malicious apps deliver an information-stealing malware called Realst, which is designed to steal sensitive data from the victims. The attackers use AI-generated content to create fake business websites, making the scams appear legitimate. These fake companies reach out to targets, often via Telegram, offering investment opportunities and encouraging them to join a video call hosted on fraudulent platforms with names such as Meeten, Clusee, and Meetio.
Once a victim visits one of these websites, they are prompted to download a meeting application. Depending on the operating system, the malware is delivered in the form of either a Windows or macOS application. On macOS, the fake app requests the victim’s system password by claiming compatibility issues with the operating system. This technique, known as osascript, has been used in previous malware campaigns, such as Atomic macOS Stealer and MacStealer, to gain unauthorized access to systems. On Windows, the malware is delivered through an installer that appears legitimate, but it ultimately pulls the malicious stealer executable from an attacker-controlled domain.
The Realst malware is designed to steal a wide range of sensitive data, including cryptocurrency wallet credentials, banking information, iCloud Keychain data, and browser cookies from popular web browsers like Google Chrome, Microsoft Edge, Opera, Brave, and Vivaldi. The stolen data is then sent to remote servers controlled by the attackers. The attackers’ goal is to gain access to critical financial and personal information, which can then be exploited for malicious purposes, including theft or fraud. This campaign highlights the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals who use social engineering tactics, such as fake business meetings, to lure victims into downloading malware.
This attack is part of a larger trend where threat actors are leveraging artificial intelligence (AI) to create highly realistic and convincing scams. The use of AI allows cybercriminals to generate legitimate-looking content quickly, making it more challenging for users to detect suspicious websites or apps. Previous attacks, like the markopolo campaign, have also targeted cryptocurrency users by using fake meeting software to deliver information stealers. As cybercriminals continue to innovate, experts emphasize the importance of vigilance and caution when interacting with unknown software or online communication platforms, especially those promoting investment opportunities or business meetings.
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