APT Hackers Exploit Edge Devices by Abusing Trusted Services to Deploy Malware
In recent years, Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) actors have increasingly targeted network edge devices—such as firewalls, routers, and VPN appliances—to establish and maintain unauthorized access within organizational networks. This strategic shift allows attackers to bypass traditional endpoint security measures, exploiting infrastructure components that often lack comprehensive monitoring.
The Evolution of APT Tactics
Historically, APT groups focused on infiltrating endpoint devices and internal servers. However, as organizations have bolstered their endpoint detection and response capabilities, attackers have adapted by shifting their focus to edge devices. These devices serve as gateways between internal networks and external environments, making them attractive targets for establishing persistent access.
In 2025, over 510 APT operations were documented globally, affecting 67 countries. A significant portion of these attacks exploited vulnerabilities in edge infrastructure. For instance, Chinese state-sponsored groups have developed custom backdoors tailored for various device families, enabling them to maintain access even after firmware updates or system reboots. This persistence complicates detection and remediation efforts for security teams.
Exploitation of Trusted Services
APT actors have also begun exploiting trusted services to facilitate their attacks. By compromising IT service providers, managed service vendors, or cloud platforms—a tactic referred to as the Fail-of-Trust Model—attackers can inherit access to downstream customers. Notably, Chinese groups such as Huapi and SLIME86 have successfully breached upstream providers, subsequently infiltrating government, military, and critical infrastructure networks.
The Role of IoT Devices
Internet of Things (IoT) devices have become integral to these operations. Attackers chain compromised IoT endpoints into operational relay box networks, effectively masking the origin of malicious activities. Network Attached Storage (NAS) systems are often exploited to serve as reverse SSH tunnel relays, facilitating data exfiltration through seemingly benign intermediaries. This method allows attackers to evade detection by security monitoring systems.
Disposable Malware and Multi-Tool Intrusion Stacks
The development of malware has evolved into an industrialized process, characterized by the creation of customized, disposable payloads designed for single-use operations. Researchers have identified over 300 malicious samples exhibiting this pattern, featuring lightweight loaders and downloaders that evade signature-based detection. These tools are rapidly developed, easily tailored to specific targets, and discarded after use to minimize the risk of detection.
Additionally, attackers employ multi-tool intrusion stacks, deploying multiple malware families alongside legitimate hacking tools within a single campaign. This redundancy ensures that if one component is detected or blocked, others can maintain access or re-establish command-and-control channels. The fragmented footprint complicates incident response efforts and extends the time required for complete threat eradication.
Recommendations for Organizations
To mitigate the risks associated with these evolving APT tactics, organizations should:
1. Implement Proactive Threat Hunting: Focus on identifying behavioral patterns indicative of malicious activity rather than relying solely on known signatures.
2. Enhance Monitoring of Edge Devices: Deploy comprehensive monitoring solutions for network edge devices to detect and respond to unauthorized access attempts promptly.
3. Strengthen Supply Chain Security: Assess and secure relationships with IT service providers, managed service vendors, and cloud platforms to prevent exploitation through trusted services.
4. Regularly Update and Patch Systems: Ensure that all devices, including edge infrastructure, are regularly updated and patched to address known vulnerabilities.
5. Conduct Security Awareness Training: Educate employees about the risks associated with APT attacks and the importance of adhering to security best practices.
By adopting these measures, organizations can enhance their resilience against sophisticated APT campaigns targeting network edge devices and trusted services.
