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Malware

FakeGit Malware Campaign Resurfaces with 17,610 Malicious GitHub Repositories

The FakeGit operation has reactivated, pushing SmartLoader and StealC infostealer via 17,610 GitHub repos in 34 hours. Legitimate developers’ accounts are being hijacked, and the malware spreads through deceptive README links. Defenders should audit GitHub repos, block SmartLoader downloads, and monitor for StealC activity.

What Happened

On October 4, the FakeGit campaign resumed, creating 17,610 new repositories on GitHub in just 34 hours. The repos host a ZIP payload that installs SmartLoader, a loader that distributes the StealC infostealer.

Impact

At least 700 accounts that appear to belong to legitimate developers are used to host the malicious repos, increasing the risk of supply‑chain compromise. The deceptive README files lure users into downloading the payload, which then spreads other malware.

Defender Actions

  • Audit GitHub repositories for unfamiliar or newly created repos that contain download links to ZIP archives.
  • Block or quarantine SmartLoader binaries and monitor for its execution on endpoints.
  • Inspect accounts for unauthorized repo creation and enforce stricter access controls.
  • Deploy endpoint detection that flags StealC infostealer signatures.

FakeGit SmartLoader StealC GitHub Malware

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