Technology

Surge in “Hunter-killer” Malware Uncovered by Picus Security

Published

1 year ago

February 13, 2024

The Picus Red Report 2024 reveals 333% increase in malware that targets and disables security controls

SAN FRANCISCO, Feb. 13, 2024 /PRNewswire/ — Picus Security, the Security Validation company, has released the Picus Red Report 2024. This fourth annual report shares learnings from an in-depth analysis of more than 600,000 real-world malware samples and identifies the most common techniques leveraged by attackers. This year, Picus uncovered a surge of “Hunter-killer” malware from the research findings, demonstrating a drastic shift in adversaries’ ability to identify and neutralize advanced enterprise defenses such as next-gen firewalls, antivirus, and EDR. According to the report, there was a 333% increase in malware that can actively target defensive systems in an attempt to disable them.

“We are witnessing a surge in ultra-evasive, highly aggressive malware which shares the characteristics of hunter-killer submarines,” said Dr. Suleyman Ozarslan, Picus Security Co-founder and VP of Picus Labs. “Just as these subs move silently through deep waters and launch devastating attacks to defeat their targets’ defenses, new malware is designed to not only evade security tools but actively bring them down. We believe cybercriminals are changing tact in response to the security of average businesses being much-improved, and widely used tools offering far more advanced capabilities to detect threats. A year ago, it was relatively rare for adversaries to disable security controls. Now, this behavior is seen in a quarter of malware samples and is used by virtually every ransomware group and APT group.”

The Red Report helps security teams better understand and battle cyber attacks by identifying the Top 10 most prevalent MITRE ATT&CK techniques exhibited by the latest malware. Its insights help prioritize defensive actions against commonly used techniques. Additional key findings include:

Evolving tactics challenge detection and response: 70% of malware analyzed now employ stealth-oriented techniques by attackers, particularly those that facilitate evading security measures and maintaining persistence in networks.Invisibility at the forefront of evasion: There was a 150% increase in the use of T1027 Obfuscated Files or Information. This highlights a trend toward hindering the effectiveness of security solutions and obfuscating malicious activities to complicate the detection of attacks, forensic analysis, and incident response efforts. The ransomware saga continues: There was a 176% increase in the use of T1071 Application Layer Protocol, which are being strategically deployed for data exfiltration as part of sophisticated double extortion schemes.

To combat Hunter-killer malware and stay ahead of 2024 malware trends, Picus is urging organizations to embrace machine learning, protect user credentials, and consistently validate their defenses against the latest tactics and techniques used by cybercriminals.

“It can be incredibly difficult to detect if an attack has disabled or reconfigured security tools, because they may still appear to be working as expected,” said Huseyin Can YUCEEL, Security Research Lead at Picus Security. “Preventing attacks that would otherwise operate under the radar requires the use of multiple security controls with a defense-in-depth approach. Security validation must be a starting point for organizations to better understand their readiness and identify gaps. Unless an organization is proactively simulating attacks to assess the response of its EDR, XDR, SIEM, and other defensive systems that may be weakened or eliminated by Hunter-killer malware, they will not know they are down until it is too late.”

For more information:

Download the Picus Red Report 2024 Read the Red Report 2024 blog

Methodology

Between January 2023 and December 2023, Picus Labs, the research unit of Picus Security, analyzed 667,401 unique files, with 612,080 (92%) categorized as malicious. Sources of these files include but are not limited to commercial and open-source threat intelligence services, security vendors and researchers, malware sandboxes, malware databases, and forums. From these files, a total of 7,754,801 actions were extracted, an average of 13 malicious actions per malware. These actions were then mapped to 7,015,759 MITRE ATT&CK techniques, an average of 11 techniques per malware.

To compile the Picus Red Report 2024 Top Ten, Picus Labs researchers determined the number of malicious files that used each technique. They then calculated the percentage of malware in the dataset that utilized that technique. For example, the T1055 Process Injection technique was used in 195,044 (32%) of the 612,080 malicious files analyzed.

About Picus Security

Picus Security helps security teams consistently and accurately validate their security posture. Our Security Validation Platform simulates real-world threats to evaluate the effectiveness of security controls, identify high-risk attack paths to critical assets, and optimize threat prevention and detection capabilities.

As the pioneer of Breach and Attack Simulation, we specialize in delivering the actionable insights our customers need to be threat-centric and proactive.

Picus has been named a ‘Cool Vendor’ by Gartner and is recognized by Frost & Sullivan as a leader in the Breach and Attack Simulation (BAS) market.

Infographic – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2338835/Picus_Infographic.jpg
Logo – https://mma.prnewswire.com/media/2183222/4540977/Picus_Logo.jpg

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.co.uk/news-releases/surge-in-hunter-killer-malware-uncovered-by-picus-security-302059723.html

Technology

Canaan Inc. to Participate in Jefferies Power x Coin Virtual Conference

Published

57 minutes ago

April 15, 2025

SINGAPORE, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Canaan Inc. (NASDAQ: CAN) (“Canaan” or the “Company”), an innovator in crypto mining, today announced that the Company will participate in the Jefferies Power x Coin Virtual Conference on April 16, 2025, at 2 pm ET.

For more information about the conference, please contact your representative at Jefferies or contact the Company at IR@canaan-creative.com.

About Canaan Inc.

Established in 2013, Canaan Inc. (NASDAQ: CAN), is a technology company focusing on ASIC high-performance computing chip design, chip research and development, computing equipment production, and software services. Canaan has extensive experience in chip design and streamlined production in the ASIC field. In 2013, Canaan’s founding team shipped to its customers the world’s first batch of mining machines incorporating ASIC technology in bitcoin‘s history under the brand name Avalon. In 2019, Canaan completed its initial public offering on the Nasdaq Global Market. To learn more about Canaan, please visit https://www.canaan.io/.

Safe Harbor Statement

This press release contains forward-looking statements. These statements are made under the “safe harbor” provisions of the U.S. Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995. These forward-looking statements can be identified by terminology such as “will,” “expects,” “anticipates,” “future,” “intends,” “plans,” “believes,” “estimates” and similar statements. Among other things, the business outlook and quotations from management in this announcement, as well as Canaan Inc.’s strategic and operational plans, contain forward-looking statements. Canaan Inc. may also make written or oral forward-looking statements in its periodic reports to the U.S. Securities and Exchange Commission (“SEC”) on Forms 20-F and 6-K, in its annual report to shareholders, in press releases and other written materials and in oral statements made by its officers, directors or employees to third parties. Statements that are not historical facts, including statements about Canaan Inc.’s beliefs and expectations, such as expectations with regard to mining hash rate deployment, are forward-looking statements. Forward-looking statements involve inherent risks and uncertainties. A number of factors could cause actual results to differ materially from those contained in any forward-looking statement, including but not limited to the following: the Company’s goals and strategies; the Company’s future business development, the ability of the company to execute against its goals, financial condition and results of operations; the expected growth of the bitcoin industry and the price of bitcoin; the Company’s expectations regarding demand for and market acceptance of its products, especially its bitcoin mining machines; the Company’s expectations regarding maintaining and strengthening its relationships with production partners and customers; the Company’s investment plans and strategies, fluctuations in the Company’s quarterly operating results; competition in its industry; and relevant government policies and regulations relating to the Company and cryptocurrency. Further information regarding these and other risks is included in the Company’s filings with the SEC. All information provided in this press release and in the attachments is as of the date of this press release, and Canaan Inc.

Investor Relations Contacts

Canaan Inc.
Xi Zhang
Email: IR@canaan-creative.com

ICR, LLC.
Robin Yang
Tel: +1 (347) 396-3281
Email: canaan.ir@icrinc.com

View original content:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/canaan-inc-to-participate-in-jefferies-power-x-coin-virtual-conference-302428340.html

SOURCE Canaan Inc.

Technology

DASH TWO Launches Integrated Paid Media Campaign for PanCAN’s PurpleStride 2025 with Local Focus in Key Cities

Published

57 minutes ago

April 15, 2025

DASH TWO leads the paid media campaign for PanCAN’s PurpleStride 2025, using targeted digital and local outdoor ads to boost registrations and drive awareness in key cities across the U.S.

LOS ANGELES, April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire-PRWeb/ — DASH TWO is leading the paid media strategy for PurpleStride 2025, the signature fundraising walk from the Pancreatic Cancer Action Network (PanCAN), taking place nationwide on Saturday, April 26. With nearly 60 events scheduled across the country, the media campaign emphasizes both national awareness and local engagement, ensuring people know PurpleStride is happening in their community—and how to take part.

“Our focus this year is simplicity—making it easier for people to see the message, act on it, and join the cause.” — Kim Pham, Vice President at DASH TWO

The campaign includes an integrated mix of social, digital, and out-of-home media, all designed to reach potential participants where they are—whether that’s on their phones, during their commute, or walking around their neighborhood. The media effort is grounded in what worked well in previous years while adapting to shifts in user behavior and platform performance.

“Every year, we take what we’ve learned and fine-tune the strategy,” said Kim Pham, Vice President at DASH TWO. “Our focus this year is simplicity—making it easier for people to see the message, act on it, and join the cause.”

A Local Emphasis Where It Matters Most

The out-of-home portion of the campaign places a strong emphasis on three key event markets—New York City, Los Angeles, and Washington, D.C.—each selected for their high foot traffic and strong community turnout.

In New York City, dynamic digital liveboards across more than 65 Screens throughout 7 subway stations deliver high-visibility messaging during daily commutes. Additionally, nighttime wall projections on E Houston & Bowery adds a creative layer to street-level engagement.In Los Angeles, DASH TWO deployed bus ads on Santa Monica’s Big Blue Bus line, reaching residents and visitors in a highly walkable, media-restricted area. A prominent digital billboard along the 405 freeway—just south of LAX—amplifies the message to a broader commuter audience.In Washington, D.C., more than 50 digital liveboard subway placements throughout the Metro system deliver exposure across the DMV region. Full-motion creative runs in general market stations to ensure a broad reach.Together, these placements support local PurpleStride events and increase relevance in areas where in-person turnout matters most.

Building on Momentum from 2024

Last year’s paid media efforts helped PanCAN achieve a 30% increase in registrations year-over-year, driven by more intuitive registration tools and precise audience targeting. The 2024 Facebook lead form pilot proved especially effective, offering users a 10-second path to sign up directly within the platform.

In 2025, DASH TWO is expanding on that success with continued use of Meta lead forms, Google Performance Max, and TikTok lead generation in top markets. These tools help streamline the path from awareness to action, especially on mobile, where most users first engage with campaign messaging.

A National Campaign with a Local Lens

While the media strategy covers the U.S. as a whole, the local approach is what helps PurpleStride feel more personal. With events scheduled in cities like San Francisco, Chicago, Orange County, Atlanta, Silicon Valley, and Pittsburgh, the creative is designed to reflect each community’s role in the larger movement.

“Our job is to bring people in—to show them that this isn’t just some national event, it’s happening in their backyard,” said Pham. “Whether you’re walking in Boston or volunteering in Phoenix, you’re part of something bigger.”

The campaign runs through April 25 and supports PanCAN’s mission to take bold action against pancreatic cancer, improve survival, and support patients and families nationwide.

About DASH TWO

DASH TWO is a Los Angeles-based media agency that creates targeted campaigns across digital, social, and outdoor platforms. The agency works with brands, nonprofits, entertainment clients, and causes to connect with audiences in ways that are effective, measurable, and relevant.

Contact:

press@dashtwo.com

www.dashtwo.com

Media Contact

Gino Sesto, DASH TWO, 1 310-439-2356, press@dashtwo.com, dashtwo.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prweb.com/releases/dash-two-launches-integrated-paid-media-campaign-for-pancans-purplestride-2025-with-local-focus-in-key-cities-302427294.html

SOURCE DASH TWO

Technology

onX Officially Introduces onX Fish to its Suite of Outdoor Adventure Apps

Published

58 minutes ago

April 15, 2025

MISSOULA, Mont., April 15, 2025 /PRNewswire/ — Today onX, a pioneer in digital outdoor navigation, introduced its newest app: onX Fish Midwest, marking a significant expansion into the fishing industry.

Over the last 12 months, onX has developed the onX Fish app, gathering feedback from thousands of users, and creating features to solve their unique challenges. Today, the app is tailored to meet angler needs in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, as the company plans to continue expanding across the Midwest this year.

Founded in 2009, onX develops mapping solutions that inform, inspire, and empower millions of outdoor recreationists. onX Hunt, onX Offroad, and onX Backcountry make up the company’s original suite of apps. Last year, the company acquired TroutRoutes, the leading mapping resource for stream and river anglers, signaling an expansion into the world of fishing. Today, the announcement of onX Fish rounds out the company’s suite of apps across a wide array of outdoor pursuits, cementing onX as the most comprehensive digital mapping resource for all outdoor adventurers.

“onX Fish helps anglers find new lakes and gives them the confidence to get there,” said onX Fish Marketing Manager Joel Nelson. “For lake anglers, onX Fish solves the age old question of ‘where should I go fishing?’ Whether they’re chasing trophies, memories, or dinner, finding new lakes teeming with trophy panfish or eater walleyes has never been simpler.”

The app’s Lake Finder feature helps anglers find a new fishing spot by filtering thousands of lakes for different species, trophy or keeper potential, and abundance based on scientific data acquired from each state’s fish and wildlife agencies. In addition to fish-related parameters, the app allows users to filter lakes based on lake size, access amenities like parking, toilets, and boat ramps – all for an entire region, among one or several species.

Other key features of the app include area insights, regulations, weather, fishery details, offline maps, recent satellite imagery, and an Apple CarPlay integration. As the fishing season kicks off across the U.S. this spring, onX Fish customers can expect the company to continue updating its offering and toolset in new states, starting in the Midwest.

The app is currently available in Minnesota, Wisconsin, and Michigan, and can be downloaded on the onX Fish website or at the Apple App Store. As onX Fish expands, annual membership pricing is just $34.99.

For more information on onX Fish, visit https://www.onxmaps.com/fish/app

About onX

Founded in 2009, onX is a pioneer in digital outdoor navigation, developing software that helps inform, inspire, and empower outdoor recreationists. onX Hunt, onX Offroad, onX Backcountry, and onX Fish make up the company’s suite of apps and are built by explorers for explorers. Because off-the-beaten-path experiences are at the heart of what onX does, the company also leads initiatives to protect and expand access to public land. Since 2018, onX has worked with various partners to secure and improve public land access through direct funding and by supporting key legislation with data analysis and research. Learn more: https://www.onxmaps.com/about

Contact:
Jack Flatley
jack.flatley@onxmaps.com

View original content to download multimedia:https://www.prnewswire.com/news-releases/onx-officially-introduces-onx-fish-to-its-suite-of-outdoor-adventure-apps-302428325.html

SOURCE onX