McAfee reports that a hacking operation that targeted defense contractors earlier this year was more expansive than first thought, with hackers using never-before-seen malicious tools to target specific victims. “Operation North Star” used fake job offer emails to target employees of aerospace and defense firms, from March 31 to about May 18. McAfee’s analysis noted similarities to a North-Korean hacking group known variously as “Hidden Cobra” and the “Lazarus Group,” which may be involved or may have served as a template. Analysis of the hacking campaign shows a combination of previously seen tools and tactics, but also never-before-seen malware.
