Mustang Panda Hackers from China Target TP-Link Routers for Ongoing Attacks
May 16, 2023
Network Security / Threat Intelligence
The Chinese state-sponsored group known as Mustang Panda has been connected to a series of sophisticated, targeted attacks aimed at European foreign affairs entities since January 2023. According to researchers Itay Cohen and Radoslaw Madej from Check Point, these intrusions involve a custom firmware implant specifically designed for TP-Link routers. This implant includes several malicious components, featuring a custom backdoor dubbed “Horse Shell” that allows attackers to maintain persistent access, establish anonymous infrastructure, and facilitate lateral movement within compromised networks. Furthermore, the implant’s firmware-agnostic design enables its components to be integrated into various firmware from different vendors. The Israeli cybersecurity firm is monitoring this threat group, also known as Camaro Dragon, along with other aliases such as BASIN, Bronze President, Earth Preta, HoneyMyte, RedDelta, and Red Lich.