PHOREAL

Phoreal is a type of malware, or malicious software, that is designed to exploit and damage computer systems. It can infiltrate your system through suspicious downloads, emails, or websites and can steal personal information, disrupt operations, or even hold data hostage for ransom. This malware has been deployed as part of the signature payloads used in APT32 operations, alongside other malware such as WINDSHIELD, KOMPROGO, SOUNDBITE, and BEACON. These operations have targeted various industries in countries around the world since at least 2014, with sectors ranging from network security and manufacturing to media, banking, and consumer products. APT32, also known for its interest in political influence and foreign governments, has been active since at least 2013. The group has not only targeted private sector entities with ties to Vietnam but also foreign governments, Vietnamese dissidents, and journalists. In 2016, APT32's operations expanded to include the United States' consumer products industry, deploying the Phoreal malware among others. The deployment of Phoreal represents a significant escalation in APT32's cyber-espionage campaign, demonstrating their ability to target and potentially compromise a wide range of industries and sectors globally. The Phoreal malware shares tactical commonalities with another group dubbed REF4322, which primarily targets Vietnamese entities to deploy a post-exploitation implant referred to as PHOREAL (aka Rizzo). As reported by FireEye and Elastic Security Labs, this suggests an interconnected web of cyber threats, all aimed at exploiting vulnerabilities in systems to gain unauthorized access or control. Understanding these commonalities can help in developing more effective defense strategies against such advanced persistent threats.