The WoofLocker tech support scam campaign, originating in 2017, has persisted and evolved into a more resilient threat. This campaign employs a sophisticated traffic diversion scheme, primarily targeting compromised websites, especially those featuring adult content. Unlike typical tech support scams that rely on malvertising, WoofLocker strategically uses a select set of compromised websites to distribute its malicious payload. The attackers differentiate between adult and non-adult traffic through distinct redirection URLs, employing obfuscated code hidden within images using steganography techniques.
This campaign employs intricate tactics to achieve its objectives. Compromised websites host malicious code that fetches WoofLocker from specific domains. The attackers use fingerprinting techniques to exclude virtual machines and certain browser extensions, ensuring the execution of their malicious intent on legitimate residential IPs. The victim is then directed through a unique session-based URL to a browser locker screen displaying fake virus warnings. Despite the relatively lower severity rating of the vulnerability, the practical aspect of deceiving users into engaging with the malicious content poses significant risk given the broad user base of WoofLocker.
WoofLocker’s longevity and adaptability highlight its sophisticated nature. This campaign not only serves as a fingerprinting and redirection tool but also demonstrates its ability to evade detection by hosting its infrastructure through reputable services. While WoofLocker’s primary focus has been on facilitating tech support scams, its potential to serve various web threats makes it a notable concern. Security experts stress the importance of regular website security audits, implementing robust traffic analysis and anomaly detection mechanisms, and continuous monitoring of website integrity to effectively counter the evolving tactics of persistent cyber threats like WoofLocker.
