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Misconfigured Docker APIs Exploited in TOR-Based Cryptojacking Campaign

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2 unique sources, 2 articles

Summary

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A new variant of a TOR-based cryptojacking campaign targets exposed Docker APIs. The attack involves executing a new container based on the Alpine Docker image and mounting the host file system. The attackers then run a Base64-encoded payload to download a shell script downloader from a .onion domain. The script installs tools for reconnaissance and communication with a command-and-control (C2) server. The campaign may aim to establish a complex botnet. The attack chain includes exploiting additional ports (23, 9222) and using known default credentials for brute-forcing logins. The malware scans for open Docker API services at port 2375 and propagates the infection to those machines. The attackers block external access to port 2375 using available firewall utilities and install persistent SSH access. The malware includes dormant logic for future expansion opportunities for credential theft, browser session hijacking, remote file download, and distributed denial-of-service (DDoS) attacks. The campaign highlights the importance of securing Docker APIs and limiting exposure of services to the internet.

Timeline

  1. 09.09.2025 22:16 1 articles · 20d ago

    Attackers Block Port 2375 and Install Persistent SSH Access

    The attackers block external access to port 2375 using available firewall utilities and install persistent SSH access by appending an attacker-controlled public key to /root/.ssh/authorized_keys. The malware includes a cron job that executes every minute to maintain the firewall rules. The malware attempts to infect other exposed Docker APIs and removes competitor containers after gaining access. The malware includes dormant logic for exploiting Telnet (port 23) using default router credentials and Chrome’s remote debugging interface (port 9222).

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  2. 09.09.2025 13:02 2 articles · 20d ago

    TOR-Based Cryptojacking Attack Expands Through Misconfigured Docker APIs

    The attackers have updated their tooling to include more dangerous functionality, such as blocking external access to port 2375 and installing persistent SSH access. The malware also includes dormant logic for future expansion opportunities, including credential theft and browser hijacking. The campaign is evolving into a multi-vector threat with capabilities for lateral movement, persistence, and potential DDoS attacks.

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Information Snippets

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