PLUGGYAPE Malware Uses Signal and WhatsApp to Target Ukrainian Defense Forces

The Hacker News

January 14, 2026 at 5:48 AM

Actively Exploited

Overview

The Computer Emergency Response Team of Ukraine (CERT-UA) has reported a series of cyber attacks targeting Ukrainian defense forces using a malware called PLUGGYAPE. These attacks occurred between October and December 2025 and have been linked to a Russian hacking group known as Void Blizzard. This group, also referred to as Laundry Bear or UAC-0190, has been active for several years. The use of popular messaging platforms like Signal and WhatsApp suggests that attackers are exploiting familiar tools to deliver their malware, making detection and prevention more challenging. This incident raises concerns about the cybersecurity of military organizations, especially in conflict zones, where the integrity of communications is crucial.

Key Takeaways

Active Exploitation: This vulnerability is being actively exploited by attackers. Immediate action is recommended.
Affected Systems: Ukrainian defense forces, Signal, WhatsApp
Action Required: Users should implement security best practices such as updating all software, using strong, unique passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication on messaging apps.
Timeline: Newly disclosed

Original Article Summary

The Computer Emergency Response Team of Ukraine (CERT-UA) has disclosed details of new cyber attacks targeting its defense forces with malware known as PLUGGYAPE between October and December 2025. The activity has been attributed with medium confidence to a Russian hacking group tracked as Void Blizzard (aka Laundry Bear or UAC-0190). The threat actor is believed to be active since at least

Impact

Ukrainian defense forces, Signal, WhatsApp

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 implement security best practices such as updating all software, using strong, unique passwords, and enabling two-factor authentication on messaging apps.

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 Malware.

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