Analysis of Pony Credential Stealer and Downloader

Pony, also known as Fareit or Siplog, remains a persistent threat in the commodity malware landscape due to its leaked source code and a user-friendly 'Pony Builder' that enables low-skill operators to generate customized variants. The malware operates as a dual-threat tool: it primarily harvests credentials from browsers, FTP clients, and SSH tools, and subsequently functions as a loader to deliver more impactful payloads like the ZeuS banking trojan.

Technically, Pony employs several anti-analysis techniques, including PUSH-to-RET control flow obfuscation and timing loops using GetTickCount to frustrate sandboxes. Its delivery typically involves phishing campaigns using password-protected ZIP files or deceptive .scr (screensaver) extensions. Once execution is successful, the malware exfiltrates stolen data via HTTP POST and often self-deletes via a batch script to minimize its forensic footprint. The risk is significant for organizations as it not only compromises sensitive credentials but also serves as an entry point for more destructive secondary infections.