Do You Need to Worry About Zero-Click Malware?

YES!!!

In today’s fluid digital landscape, cyber-threats are evolving with ever-growing speed, and they adapt to defenses faster than ever before, posing significant risks to individuals and organizations alike. Zero-click malware is not entirely new, but it has been gaining tremendous traction over the last couple of years. This insidious form of malware can covertly compromise devices and networks, and the scariest part: It requires NO user interaction.

Perhaps the best example of this type of attack happened due to a missed call – which means the victim didn’t even have to answer for the breach to occur. Zero-click malware was behind infamous WhatsApp breach from 5 years ago in 2019, which was enabled by a zero-day exploit. The missed call triggered a spyware injection into a resource in the device’s software.

A new zero-click threat attacking iOS users began to appear more recently. This attack initiates when the user receives a message via iMessage. The victim doesn’t need to click on anything or interact with the message in any way for the malicious code to execute and infect the device. That code allows a total device takeover.

What is a zero-click malware?

Simply put, zero-click malware that needs zero-clicks from the victim to release malicious malware into a system to do a very specific thing, rather than be a random nuisance. It can exploit vulnerabilities in an app or system with no interaction from the user, unlike traditional malware that requires users to click on a link, download a file, or open an attachment.

The victim has no idea it’s there (until it’s too late) because zero-click malware operates in the background, unseen. It can infiltrate devices through various attack vectors, including malicious websites, compromised networks, or even legitimate applications with security loopholes.

Why is zero-Click malware dangerous?

Because of its stealthy nature and ability to bypass security measures, zero-click malware constitutes significant threats. Once it infects a device, it can execute a wide range of malicious activities.

These include:

Data theft

Remote control

Cryptocurrency mining

Spyware

Ransomware

Turning devices into botnets for launching attacks

Zero-click malware affects individuals, businesses, and even critical infrastructure. Attacks can lead to financial losses, data breaches, and reputational damage.

How to Defend Against Zero-Click Malware

Adopting a proactive and multi-layered approach to network security is crucial in defending yourself against EVERY type of attack, not just zero-click malware. Here are some essential strategies to consider:

Update Constantly!

While diligent updating alone is not a panacea, it is a very important cog in your cybersecurity machine. This malware is certainly not the only reason you need to regularly update software, operating systems, applications, and security patches. This is vital in preventing many problems, including zero-click malware attacks.

Software updates often contain bug fixes and security enhancements. These things address vulnerabilities targeted by malware developers. Enabling automatic updates can streamline this process and ensure devices remain protected.

Updates are easy to do but they earn their keep. Think of baseball: Every position is important in the role it plays, but updating is like the shortstop. With its facile nature it performs varied actions to protect the infield.

Establish Robust Endpoint Protection

Comprehensive endpoint protection solutions can help detect and block zero-click malware. Use advanced, next-generation antivirus software, firewalls, and intrusion detection systems. They establish many layers of defense and should be updated regularly. This enables the latest threat intelligence to stay ahead of emerging malware variants.

Initiate Network Segmentation

Based on user roles, device types, or sensitivity levels, start segmenting your networks into distinct zones, which will add an extra layer of protection against zero-click malware. Isolate critical systems and install strict access controls to limit the damage. These help to mitigate lateral movement of malware and its potential harm.

Think of a 60,000 square foot warehouse – entirely open with no interior walls. Once a crook gets in, they can easily go everywhere. Segmentation puts up walls and halls with many locked doors the hacker has to get through. Not so easy now, is it?

Employ AI and Behavioral Analytics

AI is everywhere, and it NEEDS to be here as well. Advanced technologies like behavioral analytics and Artificial Intelligence can help identify anomalous activities that may indicate the presence of zero-click malware. These solutions detect patterns, anomalies, and suspicious behavior, allowing for early detection and proactive mitigation.

Regular Vulnerability Assessments

Here at ITFIRM.COM, we have likened cybersecurity as a game of ‘Whack-A-Mole” - when one vulnerability is solved, another one is bound to occur elsewhere, so it’s important to perform regular routine vulnerability assessments and penetration testing. This can help identify weaknesses in systems and applications that can enable a zero-click attack. Address these vulnerabilities promptly through patching or other remediation measures which can significantly reduce the attack surface.

Get Rid of Redundant and Unneeded Applications

Again, this should be an ongoing exercise as it a good general rule to avoid clutter. The more applications on a device, the more vulnerabilities it has. Many users download apps then rarely use them. Yet they remain on their device, vulnerable to an attack. They are also more likely to lack updates, which is a very exploitable weakness.

Have employees or your IT services team remove unneeded apps on all company devices. This will reduce the potential vulnerabilities to your network.

Download Apps from Official App Stores ONLY

Be careful where you download apps because all app distributors are not equal. Don’t go to ‘Shifty’s Cheap App Store’ - stick with the official app stores, and when you do, check the reviews and comments. Malicious apps can sometimes slip through the security controls before they’re discovered.

Continuous Security Awareness Training

Putting zero-click attacks aside, ongoing Security Awareness Training is the best insurance against human error you can get. This remains the most significant factor in successful malware attacks. A full 88% of data breaches are the result of human error.

Keep your employees informed about the risks of zero-click malware and promote good Cybersecurity practices. This is crucial. Encourage strong password management. Caution users to stay aware when opening email attachments or clicking on unfamiliar links. Support regular training on identifying phishing attempts.