China-linked UAT-7290 spies on telco in South Asia and Europe using modular malware

Security Affairs

January 9, 2026 at 9:47 AM

Actively Exploited

Overview

The China-linked hacking group UAT-7290 has been actively spying on telecom providers in South Asia and Southeastern Europe since 2022. This group uses modular malware, including tools named RushDrop, DriveSwitch, and SilentRaid, to infiltrate and monitor their targets. By embedding deeply within the victim networks, they conduct extensive espionage operations that could compromise sensitive communications and data. The ongoing attacks raise concerns about the vulnerability of telecom infrastructure in these regions and the potential risks to national security and privacy for users. As these threats continue to evolve, it is crucial for telecom companies to enhance their cybersecurity measures to protect against such sophisticated espionage tactics.

Key Takeaways

Active Exploitation: This vulnerability is being actively exploited by attackers. Immediate action is recommended.
Affected Systems: Telecom providers in South Asia and Southeastern Europe
Action Required: Telecom companies should enhance network security measures, implement regular security audits, and monitor for unusual activity to mitigate risks.
Timeline: Ongoing since 2022

Original Article Summary

China-linked UAT-7290 has targeted South Asia and Southeastern Europe since 2022, conducting espionage and deploying RushDrop, DriveSwitch, and SilentRaid. China-linked threat actor UAT-7290 has conducted espionage attacks since at least 2022, targeting South Asia and Southeastern Europe. UAT-7290 primarily targets telecom providers, it conducts espionage by deeply embedding in victim networks and also operates Operational […]

Impact

Telecom providers in South Asia and Southeastern Europe

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

Ongoing since 2022

Remediation

Telecom companies should enhance network security measures, implement regular security audits, and monitor for unusual activity to mitigate risks.

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 Vulnerability, Malware.

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