In a recent development, a notorious Russian cyberespionage group known as Midnight Blizzard, or APT29, has been identified as the perpetrator behind a sophisticated spear-phishing campaign targeting European diplomatic entities. This campaign, which commenced in January 2025, involves the utilization of a novel malware loader named GrapeLoader, in conjunction with an updated version of the WineLoader backdoor. The malicious emails, masquerading as invitations from a Ministry of Foreign Affairs, contain a harmful link that triggers the download of a ZIP file harboring the malicious payload upon meeting specific criteria. This payload comprises a legitimate PowerPoint executable, a necessary DLL file, and the GrapeLoader malware.
GrapeLoader, the newly uncovered malware, employs DLL sideloading to run and ensures its persistence by altering the Windows Registry. Upon execution, it reaches out to a command-and-control server to fetch and execute shellcode in the system’s memory. The malware is designed to operate stealthily, incorporating tactics such as ‘PAGE_NOACCESS’ memory protection and a deliberate 10-second delay before executing the payload to evade detection by antivirus and EDR scanners.
The principal objective of GrapeLoader is to conduct reconnaissance and deliver the WineLoader backdoor. Once activated, WineLoader functions as a modular backdoor, collecting intricate system details to streamline espionage activities. This gathered information encompasses system specifics like IP addresses, machine names, and process IDs, assisting the attackers in identifying potential sandbox environments and customizing subsequent payloads. The latest iteration of WineLoader is heavily obfuscated, employing techniques like RVA duplication, export table mismatches, and superfluous instructions to impede reverse engineering efforts.
Despite operating with high precision and entirely in memory, the full capabilities of this new WineLoader variant remain ambiguous due to the campaign’s covert nature. Researchers have encountered challenges in extracting the complete second-stage payload or any additional plugins utilized in the assault. The findings from Check Point underscore the evolving tactics of APT29, indicating a progression towards more sophisticated and stealthy techniques that demand heightened defenses and enhanced vigilance to thwart these targeted attacks effectively.
The motivation behind APT29’s actions appears to revolve around information theft and espionage. The group is associated with a range of tools such as Dark Halo, StellarParticle, NOBELIUM, UNC2452, YTTRIUM, The Dukes, Cozy Bear, and CozyDuke. Their attack vectors vary from widespread email campaigns resembling high-volume spam messages to focused spear-phishing emails directed at a select few individuals, incorporating malicious attachments with personalized content.
One notable aspect of their tactics is the utilization of compromised third-party networks to carry out attacks, as evidenced in incidents linked to the breach of an unclassified White House network in April 2015 and the infiltration of the U.S. Democratic National Committee’s network in 2016. This underscores the group’s adaptability and resourcefulness in leveraging various avenues for cyber infiltration and data exfiltration.
In conclusion, the activities of APT29 underscore the persistent and evolving threat posed by sophisticated state-sponsored cyber actors. Their use of innovative techniques and tools highlights the imperative for organizations and governments to bolster their cybersecurity defenses and remain vigilant against increasingly advanced and stealthy cyber threats.