Kimwolf Botnet Hijacks 1.8 Million Android TVs, Launches Large-Scale DDoS Attacks
Overview
A new botnet named Kimwolf has compromised around 1.8 million Android-based devices, including TVs, set-top boxes, and tablets. Researchers from QiAnXin XLab report that this botnet may be linked to another one known as AISURU. Kimwolf is built using the Native Development Kit (NDK), which allows attackers to control these devices and use them for large-scale distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. This incident raises concerns about the security of smart devices, as many consumers may not realize their equipment can be hijacked in this way. Users of affected devices should be vigilant and consider measures to secure their systems against such threats.
Key Takeaways
- Active Exploitation: This vulnerability is being actively exploited by attackers. Immediate action is recommended.
- Affected Systems: Android TVs, set-top boxes, tablets
- Action Required: Users should ensure their devices are updated to the latest firmware, disable unnecessary features, and consider using network security measures such as firewalls.
- Timeline: Newly disclosed
Original Article Summary
A new distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) botnet known as Kimwolf has enlisted a massive army of no less than 1.8 million infected devices comprising Android-based TVs, set-top boxes, and tablets, and may be associated with another botnet known as AISURU, according to findings from QiAnXin XLab. "Kimwolf is a botnet compiled using the NDK [Native Development Kit]," the company said in a report
Impact
Android TVs, set-top boxes, tablets
Exploitation Status
This vulnerability is confirmed to be actively exploited by attackers in real-world attacks. Organizations should prioritize patching or implementing workarounds immediately.
Timeline
Newly disclosed
Remediation
Users should ensure their devices are updated to the latest firmware, disable unnecessary features, and consider using network security measures such as firewalls.
Additional Information
This threat intelligence is aggregated from trusted cybersecurity sources. For the most up-to-date information, technical details, and official vendor guidance, please refer to the original article linked below.
Related Topics: This incident relates to Android, Google, Malware, and 2 more.