Ouroboros

Ouroboros, also known as Turla or Snake, is a significant threat actor in the cybersecurity landscape. According to an FBI affidavit unsealed on May 9, the malicious software was initially developed around 2003 or 2004 by Center 16. Early versions of the malware incorporated an image of an ancient symbol, the Uroboros - a dragon or snake depicted eating its own tail. This symbol has since become synonymous with this particular threat group, reflecting their self-perpetuating and relentless nature. At the height of its operation, Ouroboros was associated with an advertising campaign run by Merry-Go-Round that served a staggering 782 million ads to unsuspecting internet users daily. The scale of this operation underscores the vast reach and potential impact of this threat actor. The ads were likely used as a vector for spreading malware or collecting user data, although the specific details of the operation remain unclear. Turla, or Ouroboros, represents a considerable risk due to its sophisticated nature and extensive reach. Its longevity, dating back to the early 2000s, suggests a high level of adaptability and resilience, enabling it to persist despite evolving cybersecurity measures. As such, cybersecurity professionals must remain vigilant in monitoring and combating this enduring threat.