CastleLoader malware activity using a Python-based delivery chain
Malware Activity
Summary
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CastleLoader is now being delivered through a Python-based delivery chain that runs payloads in memory, increasing the chance of stealthy execution on Windows systems. The activity uses ClickFix prompts to persuade users to open the Windows Run dialog and launch a command that looks like a harmless verification step. That command starts hidden conhost.exe and pythonw.exe activity, then decrypts and executes CastleLoader shellcode without dropping a traditional executable. Researchers also tied the staging pattern and GoogeBot user agent to prior CastleLoader operations.
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Timeline
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10.12.2025 18:45 2 articles · 5mo ago
Blackpoint identifies ClickFix-driven CastleLoader campaign
Initial DisclosureBlackpoint identified a new CastleLoader campaign that uses ClickFix social engineering prompts to persuade Windows users to open the Windows Run dialog and execute a fake verification command; the chain starts a hidden conhost.exe process, fetches a tar archive, unpacks it into AppData, runs a windowless Python interpreter, and decrypts CastleLoader shellcode in memory before the final stage uses a hardcoded GoogeBot user agent and /service/download/ staging path consistent with prior CastleLoader operations.
Show sources
- ClickFix Social Engineering Sparks Rise of CastleLoader Attacks — www.infosecurity-magazine.com — 10.12.2025 18:45
- ClickFix Social Engineering Sparks Rise of CastleLoader Attacks — www.infosecurity-magazine.com — 10.12.2025 18:45