We identified a cluster of activity that we track as CL-STA-0048. This cluster targeted high-value targets in South Asia, including a telecommunications organization.
This activity cluster used rare tools and techniques including the technique we call Hex Staging, in which the attackers deliver payloads in chunks. Their activity also includes exfiltration over DNS using ping, and abusing the SQLcmd utility for data theft. Based on an analysis of the tactics, techniques and procedures (TTPs), as well as the tools used, the infrastructure and the victimology, Unit 42 assess with moderate-high confidence that this activity originates in China.
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Source: Palo Alto Unit 42
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