# These Hackers Use Your GPU To Load Password-Stealing Malware
The latest example of hackers' ingenuity has emerged with the CoffeeLoader attack, a sophisticated infostealer malware family that uses your graphics card to execute password-stealing code, evading detection and bypassing security protections. This is not an isolated incident; it highlights the ever-evolving tactics used by cybercriminals to compromise credentials and steal vast quantities of stolen passwords.
**The Unconventional Target: GPU**
Graphics cards and the software surrounding them have long been a target for cybercriminals, with security vulnerabilities in GPU display drivers and virtual GPU software being exploited. However, infostealer malware attacks that use the GPU are not something previously encountered by most. The CoffeeLoader hackers seem to be employing this methodology to launch attacks, leveraging their knowledge of the system's GPU to execute initial malware code.
**The Sophisticated Packer: Armoury**
According to Brett Stone-Gross, senior director of threat intelligence at Zscaler, the CoffeeLoader malware family uses a sophisticated packer called "Armoury" that executes code on the system's GPU. This packer is designed to hinder analysis in virtual environments and is distinguishable from legitimate software due to its ability to impersonate the Armoury Crate utility created by ASUS.
**How It Works**
The CoffeeLoader attack works as follows:
1. The hacker deploys a packer, known as Armoury, which is used to execute initial malware code on the system's GPU. 2. The packer leverages call stack spoofing and sleep obfuscation techniques to evade detection and bypass security protections. 3. Once the initial malware code is executed, it downloads and executes second-stage payloads, known as infostealers. 4. These infostealers are used to compromise credentials, leading to account theft and vast quantities of stolen passwords being traded on the dark web.
**The Connection to SmokeLoader**
CoffeeLoader has been observed being deployed with SmokeLoader, a crimewave kit that includes password-stealing as part of its package. Despite law enforcement disruption in 2024, Smoke seems to have survived, indicating that cybercriminals are always looking for new ways to stay one step ahead.
**The Consequences**
Never underestimate hackers' ingenuity and creativity. The CoffeeLoader attack highlights the importance of staying vigilant and keeping your systems up-to-date with the latest security patches. Remember, hacking is not a crime until it is, and even well-intentioned hackers can cause harm if their actions are misused.
**What You Can Do**
To protect yourself from these types of attacks:
* Keep your system's GPU drivers and software up to date. * Use reputable antivirus software that includes GPU-based security features. * Avoid using password managers or third-party login tools that may be vulnerable to infostealer malware. * Be cautious when clicking on links or downloading attachments from unknown sources.
Stay informed, stay vigilant, and stay safe online.