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April threat landscape: Cybercriminals sharpen their tools and FakeUpdates remain the biggest threat

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Key Moments

FakeUpdates dominate the threat landscape

FakeUpdates affected 6 percent globally and 7.62 percent in Sweden in April 2025.

Multi-stage attacks are increasing

Cybercriminals combine simpler malware with advanced techniques to evade detection in complex attacks.

Phishing as an entry method

Attacks often start with legitimate phishing emails containing malicious zip files and scripts.

The importance of preventive safety

Organizations must use real-time analytics and proactive security to meet rapidly evolving threats.

The IT security company Check Point Software has released its April 2025 Threat Landscape report, which shows that FakeUpdates continue to dominate. At the same time, the researchers reveal how cybercriminals are now combining simpler malware with advanced techniques to evade detection – a development that increases the risk of intrusions into Swedish businesses.

FakeUpdates, also known as SocGholish, was once again the most widespread malware during the month of April, affecting 6 percent of businesses globally. In Sweden, 7.62 percent were affected, which is a clear first place. In second place is Androxgh0st with 2.88 percent, followed by Remcos at 1.52 percent.

Cybercriminals can launch large-scale attacks using tools that are sold openly for a few hundred bucks.
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The researchers at Checkpoint At the same time, it warns of a growing trend: multi-stage attacks where simpler malware, such as AgentTesla, Remcos and Xloader, are used in advanced chains to break into systems and steal information. The attacks often begin with phishing emails that appear legitimate and contain attached zip files with malwareThis code then activates a script which in turn starts a chain of program files that inject malware into Windows processes. The result is very difficult-to-detect attacks with great potential for damage.

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“We see how the threat landscape is developing rapidly,” says Mats Ekdahl, security expert at Check Point SoftwareCybercriminals can launch large-scale attacks using tools that are sold openly for a few hundred dollars. Therefore, it is crucial that organizations adopt a proactive security mindset and take advantage of technology that analyzes in real time.

For more information, read Check Point Software's Blog: https://blog.checkpoint.com/research/april-2025-malware-spotlight-fakeupdates-dominates-as-multi-stage-campaigns-blend-commodity-malware-with-stealth/

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Questions Answered

Which malware was most prevalent in April 2025?

FakeUpdates affected the largest proportion of businesses globally and in Sweden.

How do cybercriminals combine malware to evade detection?

Through multi-step attacks that mix simpler and advanced techniques.

What method is often used to launch attacks?

Phishing emails with attached zip files containing malicious code.

What are organizations recommended to protect themselves effectively?

Preventive security and technology that analyzes in real time.

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  • Maciek Szczesniak featured on IT-Branschen Wire Channel Magic Chats podcast banner
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  • The IT industry Nordic technology media platform covering cybersecurity, cloud, AI, digital transformation, channel, MSP and enterprise IT news
    The IT industry is a leading Nordic technology media platform covering cybersecurity news, artificial intelligence, cloud computing, enterprise IT, digital transformation, managed services, channel partners, software development, telecommunications, data centers, IT infrastructure, technology leadership, business innovation, and emerging technologies. Through executive interviews, industry analysis, event coverage, thought leadership, product launches, vendor updates, and market insights, the IT industry connects technology decision-makers, CIOs, CISOs, CTOs, IT managers, MSPs, resellers, distributors, technology vendors, startups, and enterprise organizations across Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland, and Europe. Coverage includes cybersecurity trends, AI adoption, cloud strategy, enterprise software, networking, digital infrastructure, sustainability, compliance, governance, risk management, automation, data analytics, and future technology developments.
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  • VORTIQ-X AI Governance helps companies transform AI into controllable and verifiable business value.
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