Carbon

Carbon is a malicious software that infiltrates computer systems, often without the user's knowledge. It is capable of stealing personal information, disrupting operations, and holding data hostage for ransom. Recently, VMware's Carbon Black threat research team reported that one of the top ten info stealers targeting corporate networks is Jupyter, also referred to as Polazert, SolarMarker/Deimos, and Yellow Cockatoo. The malware has been observed leveraging PowerShell command modifications and legitimate-looking, digitally signed payloads, infecting an increasing number of systems since late October. This persistent data-stealing cyber threat has affected a wide range of devices including various versions of Lenovo Yoga Slim, IdeaPad, and Lenovo Slim models. The impact of Carbon has been significant in many sectors. For instance, it has triggered execution prevention alerts in Cortex XDR. Moreover, its effects have reached the energy sector, with implications for carbon neutrality and ransomware recovery industries. Companies like Camus Energy, which focus on zero-carbon grid orchestration, and Rowan Energy, which produces carbon offset certificates in real-time through its SmartMiner, are indirectly affected by the malware due to their reliance on secure digital infrastructures. In response to this threat, governments and corporations are taking steps to enhance their cybersecurity measures. The United States, for example, is focusing on diversifying semiconductor manufacturing in Indonesia, improving air quality, and supporting the electricity grid. Similarly, PSE&G has proposed building on the $1 billion CEF-EE program approved by the NJBPU in September 2020, aiming to provide customers with various options to reduce energy consumption and save money while lowering their carbon footprint. Despite these efforts, the challenge remains to effectively combat the Carbon malware and secure digital infrastructures.