Russia-aligned threat actors continue to refine their tactics by abusing trusted consumer platforms as part of their attack infrastructure. In recent campaigns, these actors have turned to Viber, a widely used messaging application, to distribute malicious content and coordinate malware delivery. This strategy allows attackers to blend into legitimate user activity while reducing exposure to traditional security monitoring.
Because many organizations and individuals consider messaging platforms low-risk, attackers exploit that trust to reach targets directly. As a result, malicious activity travels through channels that defenders often overlook.
How Viber Is Used as Malware Infrastructure
Attackers use Viber accounts to initiate conversations with targets and deliver malicious links or files. Rather than hosting malware on suspicious domains, they rely on trusted messaging delivery mechanisms to bypass email filters and web security controls. This approach increases the likelihood that victims interact with the content.
Once a target engages, the malware deployment process begins. In some cases, Viber messages direct victims to external resources that deliver payloads. In other scenarios, attackers use the platform to maintain communication and adjust their tactics in real time.
Why Messaging Apps Attract Threat Actors
Messaging platforms offer immediacy, trust, and direct access to users. Unlike email, messaging apps often lack robust inspection by enterprise security tools. Consequently, attackers can deliver malicious content with fewer obstacles.
Additionally, many messaging platforms operate across mobile and desktop environments. This cross-platform reach expands the attack surface and allows threat actors to target a wider range of devices. When combined with social engineering, this tactic proves highly effective.
Attribution and Strategic Context
Analysts link these campaigns to Russia-aligned threat actors based on infrastructure patterns, targeting choices, and operational behaviors. Rather than relying on novel malware, these actors emphasize stealth, persistence, and psychological manipulation.
By abusing Viber, attackers reduce their reliance on custom infrastructure that defenders can easily disrupt. Instead, they shift operational risk onto trusted third-party services, complicating detection and response efforts.
Security Impact on Organizations and Individuals
When attackers abuse messaging platforms, both organizations and individuals face increased risk. Malware delivered through Viber can compromise personal devices, steal credentials, or serve as an entry point into corporate networks. In some cases, compromised endpoints may later support broader espionage or disruption efforts.
Because messaging apps often sit outside traditional monitoring, infections may persist longer before detection. This delay allows attackers to extract more value from compromised systems.
Mitigation and Defensive Measures
Organizations should treat messaging platforms as potential attack vectors rather than benign communication tools. Endpoint security controls must monitor messaging app behavior, especially file execution and link handling. User awareness also plays a critical role, as attackers rely heavily on deception.
In addition, restricting the execution of untrusted content and enforcing strong mobile device management policies can reduce exposure. Continuous monitoring for anomalous behavior remains essential.
What This Signals for Future Threat Campaigns
The abuse of Viber reflects a broader shift in attacker strategy. Rather than building and maintaining custom infrastructure, threat actors increasingly hijack trusted platforms to conduct operations. This trend challenges defenders to rethink how they assess risk across everyday digital services.
As attackers continue to adapt, organizations must expand their threat models to include platforms traditionally viewed as safe. Messaging apps, collaboration tools, and cloud services now form a critical part of the modern attack surface.
FAQS
What makes Viber attractive to attackers?
Viber provides trusted, direct access to users and often bypasses traditional security controls.
Are these attacks limited to Viber?
No. Threat actors routinely abuse multiple messaging and collaboration platforms using similar tactics.
Who is most at risk from these campaigns?
Both individuals and organizations face risk, especially those lacking strong endpoint and mobile security controls.
How can users reduce exposure?
Users should avoid opening unexpected links or files and ensure their devices run updated security software.
