- Styx Stealer: New Threats to Cryptocurrency
- How Styx Stealer Works
- Safety Measures for Windows Users
Check Point Research has recently uncovered a new type of malware called Styx Stealer, which poses a serious threat to cryptocurrency users.
Styx Stealer: New Threats to Cryptocurrency
This malware, which surfaced in April, is reported to be more advanced than the older Phemedrone Stealer. It comes with enhanced features that make it particularly dangerous for those involved in digital currencies.
How Styx Stealer Works
According to the research, Styx Stealer works by intercepting cryptocurrency transactions. When a user tries to send cryptocurrency, the malware replaces the recipient’s wallet address with the hacker’s address. As a result, the money ends up in the wrong hands. This makes it a serious risk for anyone involved in digital currencies.
Safety Measures for Windows Users
The malware was initially available for rent on a website called styxcrypter.com. Users could pay $75 a month or $350 for a lifetime license. Payments could be made using various cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Litecoin. However, as of August 16, the website no longer lists Styx Stealer, which suggests the developer might be moving on to other projects. Styx Stealer was discovered because the developer accidentally leaked some data during testing. This leak helped cybersecurity experts understand how the malware works. It’s estimated that in the first two months, the malware developer earned about $9,500 in cryptocurrency from their customers. Fortunately for Windows users, those with up-to-date operating systems are protected from Styx Stealer. This is due to a patch issued last year that fixed a vulnerability in Microsoft Windows Defender, which Styx Stealer relies on to execute its attacks.
The new threat posed by the Styx Stealer malware highlights the need for continuous software updates and adherence to cybersecurity measures, especially for those actively using cryptocurrencies.
