PhantomCaptcha Cyberattack Targets Humanitarian Groups

Cyber Security News by CyberSum.net
8 sources
A highly coordinated cyberattack, codenamed PhantomCaptcha, targeted major humanitarian and government groups supporting war relief efforts. The attack, launched on October 8th, 2025, involved fake emails and a tricky captcha trap to deploy a remote access trojan. The attackers spent six months preparing, suggesting skilled operators. The campaign had similarities with COLDRIVER, a threat group linked to a certain intelligence agency. The attack used a multi-stage WebSocket-based RAT, capable of giving attackers remote control over victims' computers to steal data. The attackers' meticulous planning and swift takedown indicate a high level of operational planning. The researchers also found a potential link to a separate mobile campaign involving fake Android apps designed to steal personal information.