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In a newly discovered cyberattack technique, threat actors are exploiting DNS records to hide malware and bypass most detection systems. The method allows hackers to embed malicious code inside DNS TXT records, a rarely scrutinized corner of internet infrastructure.
Cybersecurity researchers at Infoblox were the first to uncover the new campaign. Dubbed “Muddling Meerkat,” this technique evades firewalls, endpoint protection, and network monitoring tools by hiding malicious payloads in plain sight.
How the DNS Malware Trick Works
The attack relies on a fundamental internet system: the Domain Name System (DNS). When a user visits a website, their device looks up the records to resolve the domain name into an IP address. However, DNS also supports TXT records, which are normally used for harmless metadata like SPF email validation.
In this attack, the malware is concealed in these TXT records. When a compromised system queries a domain controlled by the attackers, it silently downloads the payload without raising alarms. Most security tools do not analyze DNS TXT traffic in depth, making this an ideal stealth tunnel for hackers.
Infoblox observed DNS queries targeting China-based domains, but researchers stopped short of confirming the campaign’s origin. The precision and infrastructure, however, suggest state-level sophistication.
Why Security Tools Miss DNS Malware
Traditional antivirus and intrusion detection systems focus on file behavior, executables, or known malicious patterns. Since the Domain Name System is considered a trusted protocol and TXT records rarely contain code, this technique flies under the radar.
The malware also uses domain generation algorithms (DGAs) to cycle through new domains rapidly, further masking the trail and thwarting IP-based blacklists.
Why It Matters
This method underscores a major blind spot in enterprise and government networks: DNS traffic is rarely monitored or filtered in depth. By abusing that trust, hackers can establish persistent, low-profile access to sensitive systems.
Security experts warn that more campaigns may adopt this method, given its stealth and success rate. Organizations are being urged to inspect logs, monitor unusual TXT record activity, and segment DNS infrastructure wherever possible.
As cyberwarfare evolves, even the most foundational internet protocols are being turned into weapons, and defenders must keep up.
