QakBot / Qbot (also known as QakBot, Qbot, QuackBot, Pinkslipbot) is a botnet active since 2007. Long-running banking botnet. Key characteristics include: web injects, email thread hijacking, lateral movement, Operation Duck Hunt Aug 2023 takedown, revived.
Overview & Background
Long-running banking botnet. First identified in 2007, this threat is attributed to eCrime.
Threat Assessment
QakBot remains an active threat. Organizations should implement detection rules and monitor for indicators associated with this botnet.
- Category: Botnet
- Active since: 2007
- Attribution: eCrime
- Also known as: QakBot, Qbot, QuackBot, Pinkslipbot
Technical Analysis
QakBot employs the following capabilities and techniques:
- Web Injects: Core functionality
- Email Thread Hijacking: Core functionality
- Lateral Movement: Core functionality
- Operation Duck Hunt Aug 2023 Takedown: Core functionality
- Revived: Core functionality
MITRE ATT&CK Mapping
| Tactic | Technique | Usage |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Access | T1566.001 Phishing Attachment | Common delivery vector |
| Execution | T1204.002 Malicious File | User-triggered execution |
| Persistence | T1547.001 Registry Run Keys | Autostart persistence |
| Defense Evasion | T1027 Obfuscated Files | Payload obfuscation |
| C2 | T1071.001 Web Protocols | HTTP/HTTPS C2 |
Detection & Defense
- Endpoint detection: Deploy behavioral detection rules for QakBot indicators
- Network monitoring: Monitor for C2 traffic patterns and anomalous connections
- Threat intelligence: Track QakBot IOCs and campaign updates
- Security awareness: Train users to recognize phishing and social engineering
- Patch management: Keep systems updated to prevent exploitation
Defend Against QakBot
Mjolnir Security provides detection and response capabilities against QakBot and similar threats.
Threat DetectionIncident ResponseThreat HuntingMDR ServicesThreat Intelligence
- Proactive Threat Hunting Hunt for QakBot indicators and TTPs within your environment.
- Threat Intelligence Monitor QakBot campaigns and infrastructure changes.
- 24/7 Incident Response Rapid containment and forensic investigation. Call +1 833 403 5875.
Written by: Mjolnir Security | Published: August 18, 2025
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