When a victim opens the LNK file, embedded PowerShell code executes a script that contacts geo-fenced servers in Russia and Germany. It downloads a second-stage ZIP file containing a malicious DLL, which is then launched using DLL side-loading. This DLL acts as a loader that decrypts and runs the final Remcos payload, allowing the attacker to gain remote access and control of the system. A decoy document is also displayed to the user to hide the malicious activity.

The campaign is attributed with moderate confidence to the Russian state-sponsored group Gamaredon, also known by aliases like Armageddon, Primitive Bear, and Trident Ursa. Gamaredon has been active since at least 2013 and is linked to Russia’s Federal Security Service. The group is known for espionage operations against Ukraine, particularly targeting government and military sectors. The attribution is supported by forensic links to systems previously used by Gamaredon to create similar malicious shortcut files.

Security Officer Comments:
At the same time, security researchers observed phishing websites tied to this broader campaign, used to collect sensitive data from individuals, particularly Russians expressing sympathy for Ukraine. These fake websites impersonate trusted groups such as the CIA, the Russian Volunteer Corps, and Legion Liberty, as well as the “I Want to Live” hotline for Russian troops seeking to surrender. Hosted by a bulletproof provider, the sites collect personal information—such as political beliefs, physical fitness, and behavioral traits—through Google Forms and direct email responses. Researchers believe this entire operation serves a dual purpose: infecting Ukrainian systems with malware for espionage and gathering intelligence on pro-Ukraine Russians. Both aspects are likely driven by Russian Intelligence Services or aligned threat actors.

Suggested Corrections:
Users should always be cautious of individuals or organizations that ask for personal information. Most companies will not ask for sensitive data from their customers. If in doubt, users should verify with the company itself to avoid any potential issues.

Users should always take a close look at the sender’s display name when checking the legitimacy of an email. Most companies use a single domain for their URLs and emails, so a message that originates from a different domain is a red flag.

As a general rule, users should not click links or download files even if they come from seemingly “trustworthy” sources.

Check for mismatched URLs. While an embedded URL might seem perfectly valid, hovering above it might show a different web address. In fact, users should avoid clicking links in emails unless they are certain that it is a legitimate link.

Users should always be on the lookout for any grammatical errors and spelling mistakes. Legitimate companies will often employ proofreaders and editors who ensure that the materials they send out are error-free.

Users should not be frightened or intimidated by messages that have an alarmist tone. They should double check with the company if they are uncertain about the status of their accounts.

Phishing emails are designed to be sent to a large number of people, so they need to be as impersonal as possible. Users should check whether the message contains a generic subject and greeting, as this can be a sign of a phishing attempt.

Although not every end user has access to advanced anti-phishing software, they can still use the built-in protection of their email clients to filter messages. One example is setting the email client to block all images unless approved.

Legitimate companies will never send confirmation emails unless there are specific reasons for doing so. In fact, most companies will avoid sending unsolicited messages unless it’s for company updates, newsletters, or advertising purposes.

Users should always take the context of an email or message into account. For example, most online accounts do away with viewable member numbers, so users should be wary if they receive emails containing a “member number” for services that generally don’t use them.

It is important to take note of unusual information in the text of the message. Any mentions of operating systems and software that are not typically used by consumers can often be indicators of a phishing attempt.

If it seems suspicious, it probably is. Users should always err on the side of caution when it comes to sending out personally identifiable information through messages and emails.

Link(s):
https://thehackernews.com/2025/03/russia-linked-gamaredon-uses-troop.html