Hacker News: Notorious Malware, Spam Host "Prospero" Moves to Kaspersky Lab

Mar 4, 2025

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Source URL: https://krebsonsecurity.com/2025/02/notorious-malware-spam-host-prospero-moves-to-kaspersky-lab/
Source: Hacker News
Title: Notorious Malware, Spam Host "Prospero" Moves to Kaspersky Lab

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AI Summary and Description: Yes

Summary: The text discusses alarming connections between a notorious bulletproof hosting provider, Prospero OOO, and Kaspersky Lab, a leading cybersecurity firm. The implications of this association raise serious security concerns, especially given Kaspersky’s history and the potential misuse of its services by cybercriminal entities.

Detailed Description:
– The article reveals that Prospero OOO, a known provider of “bulletproof” web hosting for cybercriminals, is routing its operations through networks associated with Kaspersky Lab.
– Prospero has reportedly been a key player in facilitating malicious software, phishing sites, and botnet operations, showing a long history of association with Russian cybercrime.
– Kaspersky Lab has been cited for having a significant reputation in cybersecurity, yet it is under scrutiny due to its service being leveraged by a provider known for evading legal and regulatory actions.
– Key points include:
– **Connection to Cybercrime:** Prospero has cultivated a reputation for supporting ransomware gangs and hosting malware operations, thus contributing to a broader cyber threat landscape.
– **Kaspersky’s Denials:** Kaspersky denies any direct involvement with Prospero and claims that routing through its networks does not equate to providing services to criminal operations.
– **U.S. Government Actions:** Kaspersky has faced scrutiny and bans from U.S. governmental bodies due to concerns about their ties to the Russian government and the potential for intelligence gathering.
– **Ongoing Investigations:** Kaspersky is investigating the routing of traffic through its networks and maintaining that its business is conducted ethically, while concerns remain about the implications of their services being used by cybercriminals.

– **Security Implications:**
– **Reputational Risk:** If Kaspersky is found to be unwittingly facilitating criminal enterprises, it could suffer significant reputational damage.
– **Policy and Compliance:** Organizations should be aware of using services from companies that may inadvertently connect with malicious actors.
– **DDoS Services:** The text raises concerns about the ethical implications of providing DDoS protection to bulletproof hosting services, which further complicates Kaspersky’s stance in the cybersecurity domain.

In conclusion, this case exemplifies the interconnectedness of cybersecurity firms and the risks posed when their infrastructure may be exploited by malicious actors. Security and compliance professionals must remain vigilant in understanding these relationships and the implications for broader security strategies.

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