Quicksand

Quicksand is a type of malware designed to exploit and damage computer systems. It infiltrates devices through suspicious downloads, emails, or websites, often unbeknownst to the user. Once inside, it can steal personal information, disrupt operations, or even hold data hostage for ransom. This malicious software was notably used in Operation Quicksand, an offensive cyber attack launched by Static Kitten against Israeli organizations. The operation was detailed in a report published by ClearSky Cyber Security in October 2020. Operation Quicksand was reportedly conducted in October 2020, coinciding with peace deal negotiations between Israel and UAE that were expected to create 15,000 jobs and generate $2 billion in revenue on each side. The operation involved the use of the file-storage service OneHub and targeted prominent Israeli organizations. Static Kitten employed two lure ZIP files to trick users into downloading what they believed to be a report on relations between Arab countries and Israel or a file relating to scholarships. The motivation behind the targeting of specific regions could be attributed to various geopolitical factors. For instance, Kuwait's Ministry of Foreign Affairs had publicly expressed its willingness to mediate between Iran and Saudi Arabia, which may have influenced the decision to target this region. Furthermore, other major IT firms have also been targeted by similar intrusions, indicating a broader pattern of cyber attacks. As such, it is crucial for organizations to remain vigilant and employ robust cybersecurity measures to protect against such threats.