{
  "family": "slingshot",
  "sample_count": 1,
  "category": "advanced_threat",
  "description": "<h3>Executive Summary</h3>\nSlingshot is an exceptionally sophisticated, modular Advanced Persistent Threat (APT) platform discovered in 2018 (though believed to be active since at least 2012). It is a highly complex cyber-espionage framework characterized by its unique infection vector—compromising network routers—and its deep integration into the Windows kernel. Slingshot is designed for long-term, stealthy surveillance and data exfiltration from highly secure networks.\n\n<h3>Infection Vector and Technical Capabilities</h3>\nSlingshot's most notable characteristic is its initial infection vector. Rather than relying on traditional phishing or exploit kits, the threat actors compromised Mikrotik routers (and potentially others). They modified the router's software to inject a malicious DLL into the legitimate management software downloaded by network administrators, effectively turning the router into a malware distribution point for the internal network.\n\nUpon execution on a Windows endpoint, the framework deploys two massive modules:\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Cahnadr (Kernel-Mode Module):</strong> This module operates deep within the Windows kernel (Ring 0). It acts as a highly advanced rootkit, hiding the malware's presence, providing unfettered access to system resources, and establishing low-level persistence mechanisms that survive reboots and OS upgrades.</li>\n<li><strong>GollumApp (User-Mode Module):</strong> This is the primary espionage payload, consisting of nearly 1,500 highly modular functions. It is responsible for comprehensive surveillance: keylogging, screen capturing, stealing passwords, harvesting clipboard data, capturing network traffic, and monitoring USB devices.</li>\n<li><strong>Advanced Evasion:</strong> Slingshot utilizes an encrypted virtual file system within the Windows registry to store its modules and stolen data, making forensic analysis exceptionally difficult. It also monitors for security products and can shut itself down to avoid detection.</li>\n</ul>\n\n<h3>Threat Assessment</h3>\nSlingshot represents one of the most advanced cyber-espionage platforms ever discovered. Its ability to compromise network infrastructure (routers) to attack endpoints, combined with its kernel-level rootkit capabilities, indicates it is the tool of a highly resourced, likely state-sponsored actor focused on high-value targets.\n\n<h3>Incident Response and Remediation</h3>\n<ul>\n<li><strong>Infrastructure Audit (Routers):</strong> Remediation must begin at the network edge. All network routers (especially Mikrotik) must be audited, firmly patched, and their firmware verified against known-good hashes to eliminate the primary infection vector.</li>\n<li><strong>Deep Forensic Triage:</strong> Because Slingshot operates at the kernel level and utilizes encrypted registry file systems, traditional AV scans are insufficient. Specialized forensic analysis (including memory forensics) is required to confirm infection.</li>\n<li><strong>Complete Re-imaging:</strong> Any endpoint confirmed to be infected with Slingshot must undergo a complete bare-metal wipe. Due to its advanced persistence, attempting to clean the system is highly risky; re-imaging from a trusted baseline is mandatory.</li>\n</ul>",
  "cta": "Published by the SystemHelpdesk team.",
  "aliases": [
    "APT.Slingshot",
    "Trojan.Slingshot",
    "Win32/Slingshot"
  ],
  "enrichment_level": "insufficient_information",
  "faq": [],
  "faq_count": 0,
  "mitre_attack": [
    "T1014",
    "T1056",
    "T1114",
    "T1542"
  ],
  "cisa_advisory": null,
  "last_updated": "2026-07-02T07:07:00Z",
  "type": "APT / Espionage Platform",
  "target_industries": [
    "Global / Opportunistic"
  ],
  "motivation": "Opportunistic",
  "threat_actors": [
    "Unknown / Cybercriminal"
  ],
  "target_geographies": [
    "Global"
  ]
}