Hackers are orchestrating widescale attacks on WordPress sites, leveraging them as platforms to execute browser-based password bruteforce attacks on unsuspecting visitors. This emerging threat was initially identified by cybersecurity firm Sucuri, which has been monitoring the activities of a threat actor previously known for injecting crypto wallet drainer scripts into compromised sites. However, the focus has shifted towards coercing visitors into conducting bruteforce attacks, signaling a strategic shift towards building a larger network of compromised sites for future malicious activities.
The attackers deploy malicious scripts on compromised WordPress sites, discreetly loading them into visitors’ browsers upon accessing the site. These scripts quietly communicate with the attackers’ server to receive instructions for conducting bruteforce attacks on other websites. Utilizing WordPress site vulnerabilities, the attackers inject malicious code into HTML templates, enabling them to orchestrate password guessing attempts on a massive scale.
As visitors’ browsers engage in bruteforce attacks, attempting various password combinations, the attackers receive notifications upon successful compromises. This allows them to collect sensitive information, such as login credentials, which can be exploited for various nefarious purposes. With over 1,700 compromised sites identified, unsuspecting visitors unwittingly contribute to a distributed bruteforce army, highlighting the scale and impact of these coordinated attacks.
While the motive behind the switch from crypto wallet draining to password bruteforce remains unclear, Sucuri speculates it’s aimed at building a broader portfolio of compromised sites for future exploitation. This strategic maneuver reflects the evolving tactics of threat actors, emphasizing the need for enhanced cybersecurity measures to safeguard against such sophisticated attacks targeting popular web platforms like WordPress.
