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The Mirai Malware Threat: Safeguarding Nigeria’s Cyberspace

The Mirai Malware Threat: Safeguarding Nigeria’s Cyberspace

Publication Date: March 20, 2025

Affected Products: IoT Devices, Routers, DVRs, IP Cameras, Networked Devices

Affected Versions: Various firmware versions vulnerable to default or weak credentials

Affected Platforms: Linux-based IoT devices and embedded systems

Summary

The Nigerian Communications Commission’s Computer Security Incident Response Team (NCC-CSIRT) has identified the active presence of the Mirai malware within Nigeria’s cyberspace. This malware specifically targets Internet of Things (IoT) devices with weak security configurations. Once compromised, these devices are assimilated into a botnet, facilitating large-scale Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS) attacks and other malicious activities. It is imperative for organizations and individuals utilizing IoT devices to implement immediate security measures to protect their infrastructure.

Threat Types

  • Botnet: A network of compromised devices controlled by attackers.
  • Malware: Malicious software designed to infiltrate and damage systems.
  • Distributed Denial-of-Service (DDoS): Overwhelming a target system with excessive traffic, rendering it unavailable.
  • Credential Exploitation: Unauthorized access achieved through weak or default login credentials.

Consequences

  • Device Compromise: Attackers gain control over infected devices.
  • Participation in DDoS Attacks: Compromised devices are used to launch attacks that can disrupt critical services.
  • Unauthorized Network Access: Attackers may infiltrate sensitive networks and access confidential data.
  • Malware Propagation: Infected devices can serve as vectors to spread malware within networks.

Understanding the Mirai Malware

Mirai is a self-propagating malware that infects IoT devices by exploiting weak or default credentials and unpatched vulnerabilities. Once a device is compromised, it becomes part of a botnet—a network of infected devices controlled by attackers. This botnet can be used to launch massive DDoS attacks or conduct other malicious activities. The malware continuously scans the internet for additional vulnerable devices, expanding its reach and impact.

In September 2016, the creators of Mirai launched a DDoS attack on the website of a well-known security expert. Shortly after, they released the source code publicly, leading to widespread replication and adaptation by other cybercriminals. This release is believed to have contributed to the massive attack that disrupted the domain registration services provider, Dyn, in October 2016, affecting major websites like Twitter, Reddit, and Netflix.

 

Mirai primarily targets IoT devices running on the ARC processor with a stripped-down version of the Linux operating system. The malware scans the internet for devices with default username-and-password combinations. If these credentials have not been changed, Mirai can log into the device and infect it. The compromised devices are then used to launch large-scale automated attacks, such as DDoS or credential stuffing.

Notable Incidents Involving Mirai

One of the most significant incidents involving Mirai was the DDoS attack on Dyn in October 2016. This attack disrupted internet service across Europe and the US, affecting major websites and services. Dyn confirmed that the attack was orchestrated using the Mirai botnet as the primary source of malicious traffic.

 

More recently, in January 2025, a new variant of the Mirai malware was observed exploiting vulnerabilities in cameras and routers to infiltrate devices, download payloads, and integrate them into an expanding botnet. This variant, dubbed Murdoc_Botnet, has been targeting AVTECH cameras and Huawei HG532 routers, exploiting known vulnerabilities to infect devices and establish a vast network for malicious activities.

 

Preventive Measures

To protect against Mirai and similar malware threats, consider implementing the following security measures:

  1. Change Default Credentials: Immediately update factory-set usernames and passwords on all IoT devices to strong, unique combinations.
  2. Apply Firmware Updates: Ensure devices are running the latest firmware with all security patches applied.
  3. Disable Unnecessary Services: Turn off remote management features and other services that are not required.
  4. Implement Network Segmentation: Isolate IoT devices from critical networks to limit exposure and potential impact.
  5. Use Strong Authentication: Enable multi-factor authentication (MFA) where possible to add an extra layer of security.
  6. Monitor Network Traffic: Regularly check for unusual outbound traffic that may indicate botnet activity.

Conclusion

The active presence of the Mirai malware in Nigeria’s cyberspace underscores the critical importance of securing IoT devices. By implementing robust security measures, organizations and individuals can protect their devices from being compromised and used in malicious activities. Continuous vigilance and proactive security practices are essential to safeguard against evolving cyber threats.

References

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