New Trojan Attacks Linux Servers
The Xnote trojan hides itself on the target system and will launch a variety of attacks on command.
The Dr. Web security group has announced the discovery of a multipurpose trojan that targets Linux server systems. The trojan, which is known as Xnote, is designed to implement several botnet-style attacks. Xnote does not break into a system by itself but is, instead, delivered to the victim’s computer after the attackers have already established a root SSL connection by other means.
Once in place, Xnote takes several steps to conceal itself, such as making a copy of itself and deleting the original. Once it settles in, Xnote then sends information about the victim’s system to a remote command and control server and waits for further instructions. If instructed to do so, Xnote can launch a SYN Flood, UDP Flood, HTTP Flood, or NTP Amplification attack. Xnote can also create and rename file and directories, accept files from the command and control server, start a SOCKS proxy, and communicate with the remote server through a hidden shell.
Researchers suspect Xnote was created by the Chinese hacker group ChinaZ.
Subscribe to our Linux Newsletters
Find Linux and Open Source Jobs
Subscribe to our ADMIN Newsletters
Support Our Work
Linux Magazine content is made possible with support from readers like you. Please consider contributing when you’ve found an article to be beneficial.

News
-
System76 Releases COSMIC Alpha 7
With scores of bug fixes and a really cool workspaces feature, COSMIC is looking to soon migrate from alpha to beta.
-
OpenMandriva Lx 6.0 Available for Installation
The latest release of OpenMandriva has arrived with a new kernel, an updated Plasma desktop, and a server edition.
-
TrueNAS 25.04 Arrives with Thousands of Changes
One of the most popular Linux-based NAS solutions has rolled out the latest edition, based on Ubuntu 25.04.
-
Fedora 42 Available with Two New Spins
The latest release from the Fedora Project includes the usual updates, a new kernel, an official KDE Plasma spin, and a new System76 spin.
-
So Long, ArcoLinux
The ArcoLinux distribution is the latest Linux distribution to shut down.
-
What Open Source Pros Look for in a Job Role
Learn what professionals in technical and non-technical roles say is most important when seeking a new position.
-
Asahi Linux Runs into Issues with M4 Support
Due to Apple Silicon changes, the Asahi Linux project is at odds with adding support for the M4 chips.
-
Plasma 6.3.4 Now Available
Although not a major release, Plasma 6.3.4 does fix some bugs and offer a subtle change for the Plasma sidebar.
-
Linux Kernel 6.15 First Release Candidate Now Available
Linux Torvalds has announced that the release candidate for the final release of the Linux 6.15 series is now available.
-
Akamai Will Host kernel.org
The organization dedicated to cloud-based solutions has agreed to host kernel.org to deliver long-term stability for the development team.