Threat Intel
Eddiestaler: Rust‑Based Infostealer Delivered via Fake CAPTCHA Pages
A new Rust‑compiled infostealer, Eddiestaler, is being distributed through deceptive CAPTCHA interfaces that trick users into running a PowerShell payload. The malware harvests credentials, browser data, and crypto wallet info, and communicates with a C2 server for instructions. Defenders should block suspicious CAPTCHA scripts, monitor for clipboard‑copy PowerShell commands, and enforce script‑execution policies.
What happened
Elastic Security Labs identified a new infostealer, Eddiestaler, written in Rust and distributed through fake CAPTCHA pages on compromised websites. The malicious site presents a "I'm not a robot" prompt that copies a PowerShell command to the clipboard, prompting users to run it manually.
How it works
The attacker hosts an obfuscated React script that renders a CAPTCHA‑like dialog. When the user interacts, the script copies a PowerShell command that downloads a second‑stage payload (gverify.js). This script then connects to a C2 server, receives a task list, and collects data such as Windows credentials, browser history, and cryptocurrency wallet addresses.
Impact
Windows hosts that visit the compromised site and execute the command are infected. The malware can exfiltrate credential caches, browser cookies, and wallet keys, potentially enabling credential reuse and financial theft.
Mitigation
- Block or sandbox URLs that serve suspicious CAPTCHA scripts.
- Enforce PowerShell execution policies to prevent user‑initiated scripts from downloading unknown code.
- Deploy web‑filtering or script‑blocking solutions that detect clipboard‑copy of PowerShell commands.
- Monitor outbound traffic for connections to known C2 domains or unusual PowerShell downloads.
- Educate users to avoid running scripts prompted by CAPTCHA interfaces.