The campaign typically begins with a spear-phishing email containing a link to a cloud storage service (such as Google Drive or Dropbox) where the archive is hosted. By using legitimate cloud services, the attackers increase the likelihood that the download will not be flagged by automated security filters. 2. Archive Contents and DLL Side-Loading The .7z archive usually contains three core components:
When the user runs the legitimate executable, it automatically searches for and loads the malicious DLL found in the same folder—a technique known as . 3. The PlugX Malware Payload ThanksGivingRecipe.7z
Uploading, downloading, and executing files. The campaign typically begins with a spear-phishing email
Allowing the attacker to run arbitrary commands on the infected host. 4. Command and Control (C2) Communication Archive Contents and DLL Side-Loading The
Often a signed application, such as a component of Adobe or a security tool, which is used to gain trust from the operating system.
A binary file (e.g., data.dat ) containing the final malware.