Hector

Hector is a sophisticated piece of malware known for its ability to target both Linux and Windows systems. This malicious software communicates with its command-and-control (C2) servers via the Web Socket Secure (WSS) protocol, making it a formidable threat to digital security. Hector has been associated with a Remote Access Trojan (RAT) referred to as KeyPlug, though this connection has not been definitively proven. The actor behind the distribution of Hector malware has been named 'Unfurling Hemlock' by Outpost24 threat researchers due to the unique propagation method employed by the malware. As described by researcher Hector Garcia, the malware acts like a 'cluster bomb', where a single sample unfurls to spread several malware samples when infecting its victims. This approach significantly increases the potential damage and reach of Hector across infected systems. Recorded Future has hypothesized a possible link between KeyPlug malware and the Hector leak. However, the confidence in this information remains medium-low due to the lack of direct evidence supporting this link. Despite this uncertainty, the potential connection underscores the complex nature of modern cyber threats and the importance of ongoing research and vigilance in cybersecurity efforts.