Kaspersky Lab outs "Machete" malware targeting Spanish speakers

The "Machete" malware largely found victims in South America, though also compromised users in the U.S. and throughout Europe.

@MHatamoto

Published Aug 22, 2014 9:20 AM CDT
Updated Nov 3, 2020 12:15 PM CST

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The "Machete" cyberattack targeted Spanish speaking residents of Colombia, Ecuador and Venezuela, and the malware was recently noted by security firm Kaspersky Lab. The targeted attack campaign likely launched in 2010 and was improved in 2012, with the Machete operation still potentially active. The malware is sent as a RAR file attachment that includes a PowerPoint presentation, researchers noted.

Kaspersky Lab outs Machete malware targeting Spanish speakers | TweakTown.com

The malware can log keystrokes, capture geolocation data, capture screenshots, record audio from PC microphone, take photos via Web camera, and copy files to a remote server, among other similar cybercriminal activities.

There were 85 victims in Colombia, 282 victims in Ecuador, and 372 victims in Venezuela, though also found 45 victims in Russia and small numbers of victims in the United States and Europe. Much like other malware distribution, the criminals rely on social engineering to trick users to unknowingly install it on their machines.