Threat Actor Profile - Equation Group
Threat Actor: Equation Group
Date of Activity: ~2001-Present
Overview: Equation group is a term used to describe a highly advanced hacking group that was discovered in 2015. This group is believed to be associated with the National Security Agency (NSA) in the United States and is responsible for creating some of the most sophisticated malware and hacking tools ever seen.
The Equation group's malware is known to be highly advanced and capable of remaining undetected for years. It is believed that they have been active since at least 2001, and have targeted a wide range of organizations and individuals around the world.
One of the most notable tools developed by the Equation group is a malware known as Stuxnet. This malware was used to attack Iranian nuclear facilities in 2010, and is believed to have been developed in collaboration with Israeli intelligence agencies. Stuxnet was able to infect industrial control systems and cause physical damage to centrifuges used in uranium enrichment.
Another notable tool developed by the Equation group is a malware known as GrayFish. This malware can infect a system's firmware, which makes it incredibly difficult to detect and remove. Once installed, GrayFish can intercept and modify data transmitted to and from a compromised system.
The Equation group's tools and techniques are highly advanced and sophisticated, and they are believed to have targeted a wide range of organizations and individuals around the world. It is not known how many attacks have been carried out by the Equation group, or how much damage they have caused.
TTPs:
• Nation-state tool set; to include implants, exploits and RATs
• Intelligence collection against militaries and governments
• Zero-day exploits including ETERNAL BLUE
• Implementing encrypted communications
• Long term access to networks with deep access
• Supply-chain interdiction
