Security researchers report a new threat facing businesses that could put your data, as well as its backups, at serious risk. They’ve discovered that ransomware gangs exploit Kickidler in new attacks, meaning that they’re weaponizing your company’s tool to keep things on track against you.
When Monitoring Tools Turn Against You: How Hackers Are Abusing Kickidler
The tools you rely on to monitor productivity and protect your business could actually be opening the door for cybercriminals. Awareness is the first step in defending your company—and this is one threat you can’t afford to ignore.
Here’s how hackers are twisting the functionality of Kickidler, a legitimate employee monitoring tool, into a weapon for surveillance and attack.
How Cybercriminals Are Misusing Kickidler
Kickidler was built to help organizations enhance oversight—tracking time, capturing screen activity, and logging keystrokes. But these very features are now being hijacked by attackers to spy on your team, steal data, and spread malware across networks.
In recent campaigns, ransomware gangs have been observed deploying Smokedham, a sophisticated backdoor malware that provides covert access to infected systems. Once inside, cybercriminals can:
- Log every keystroke
- Watch live screen activity
- Harvest admin credentials
- Target cloud backup accounts for additional leverage
This isn’t theoretical. These attacks are happening—and they’re especially dangerous because they exploit a legitimate tool in a highly deceptive way.
Why Traditional Antivirus Isn’t Enough
Unlike fake or pirated software, attackers are installing real, unaltered versions of Kickidler on targeted systems—making it difficult for traditional antivirus programs to detect the threat. Because the software is not inherently malicious, it bypasses many common defenses.
That’s what makes this tactic so dangerous: you could be watching the software work—without realizing it’s working against you.
5 Steps to Strengthen Your Cybersecurity Posture
If you’re using Kickidler—or any similar monitoring software—it’s time to take a closer look at your cybersecurity strategy. Follow these best practices to reduce your risk:
- Conduct a Full Software Audit
Only allow installations by authorized IT personnel. Unapproved tools, even familiar ones, should trigger an immediate investigation. - Monitor for Abnormal Activity
Unusual login patterns or unexplained screen behavior could signal misuse. Set alerts and monitor logs continuously. - Deploy Advanced Endpoint Detection (EDR)
Traditional antivirus may miss threats that involve legitimate software. EDR solutions look for behavioral anomalies to detect suspicious use. - Harden Access Controls
Secure all admin and cloud credentials using password managers and multi-factor authentication. Never store sensitive credentials in plain text. - Train Your Team
Educated employees are your first defense. Regularly update staff on phishing risks, suspicious software activity, and how to report concerns.
Don’t Let Your Security Tools Become a Liability
When the very tools you use to protect your business can be weaponized against you, a reactive approach just won’t cut it. Staying ahead of cybercriminals requires proactive monitoring, smarter defenses, and a well-informed team.
🛡️ It’s time to take control of your cybersecurity posture.
📞 Call 408-369-4300 or email sales@corpwest.com today for a free security audit and find out how we can help protect your business from hidden threats—even the ones disguised as legitimate software.
