UI Automation: The Unseen Villain Giving Hackers a Free Pass on Windows
Akamai’s latest research reveals how attackers can exploit Windows UI Automation, a tool designed for accessibility, to bypass security measures. This method allows malicious activities like redirecting browsers to phishing sites and reading messages, all while flying under the radar of Endpoint Detection and Response (EDR) systems.
Hot Take:
Just when you thought Windows accessibility was all about helping users, it turns out it can also assist hackers in giving your data a free ride to places it shouldn’t go. UI Automation: making both accessibility and cybercriminals’ lives easier since Windows XP!
Key Points:
- A new technique uses Windows UI Automation to carry out stealthy malicious activities, evading EDR solutions.
- The approach can result in data theft, command execution, and redirection to phishing sites.
- Local attackers could exploit this to interact with apps like Slack and WhatsApp without detection.
- UI Automation was intended for assistive technology but can be repurposed for nefarious activities.
- Deep Instinct reveals DCOM could be used for lateral movement attacks, embedding backdoors.
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