Akamai Alerts on Active Attacks from New Mirai Variant

Akamai Alerts on Active Attacks from New Mirai Variant

Akamai Warns of New Aquabotv3 Botnet Targeting Mitel Devices

Akamai is raising concerns about a new threat in the cybersecurity landscape: the Aquabotv3 botnet, which is derived from the notorious Mirai framework. This malware exploits a critical vulnerability in Mitel internet-connected phones, posing significant risks for organizations relying on these devices. Researchers Larry Cashdollar and Kyle Lefton from Akamai have identified that the primary goal of Aquabotv3 is to facilitate distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks, a growing menace in today’s digital environment.

Understanding the Aquabotv3 Botnet

The Aquabotv3 botnet has been on the radar since November 2023 and was first reported by Antiy Labs. The malware leverages the CVE-2024-41710 vulnerability, which is a command injection flaw linked to the improper sanitization of POST requests in Mitel firmware. This flaw allows attackers to send specially crafted HTML requests, enabling them to execute unauthorized commands, such as downloading and running a botnet client.

  • Key Features of the Aquabotv3 Botnet:
    • Built upon the Mirai framework, known for its DDoS capabilities.
    • Targets a specific vulnerability in Mitel devices, making it a serious threat.
    • Capable of transforming everyday internet devices into a large-scale DDoS arsenal.

While the immediate threat may seem limited to the Mitel devices, the broader implications are alarming. These compromised devices can launch extensive attacks on other organizations, effectively turning them into DDoS cannons when activated at scale.

New Behavior Patterns in Aquabotv3

Akamai’s researchers have noted some innovative behaviors in the third iteration of the Aquabot malware. Infected devices now actively monitor incoming requests and can report back to the controlling server. Notably, when they receive a "kill connection" command, they utilize a "report_kill" function to send data back to the command and control (C2) server. This behavior is unprecedented among Mirai variants and may be indicative of the botnet author’s efforts to monitor its operational health.

  • Implications of New Behavior:
    • Enhanced monitoring could allow for more sophisticated control of the botnet.
    • This communication may offer insights into the botnet’s performance and effectiveness.

Mitigating the Threat: Recommended Actions

As the Aquabotv3 botnet continues to evolve, administrators are urged to take immediate action:

  1. Update Firmware: Ensure all Mitel devices are running the latest firmware to mitigate potential vulnerabilities.
  2. Monitor Network Traffic: Keep an eye on unusual traffic patterns that may indicate a DDoS attack.
  3. Educate Staff: Promote awareness about the risks associated with outdated firmware and the importance of cybersecurity practices.

For further information on how to secure your network, you can visit Akamai’s official blog and CVE Details.

In conclusion, the emergence of the Aquabotv3 botnet serves as a reminder of the evolving landscape of cyber threats. As organizations increasingly rely on internet-connected devices, vigilance and proactive measures are essential to safeguarding against potential attacks. Share your thoughts on this issue or read related articles to stay informed about the latest in cybersecurity.

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