Security & Threat Intelligence · 25.07.2026, 15:29 UTC
Cavern Manticore: Exposing Iran-Linked Modular C2 Framework
| Schweregrad | info |
|---|---|
| Kategorie | Security & Threat Intelligence |
| Quelle | Check Point Research ↗ |
| Veröffentlicht | 25.07.2026 UTC |
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Key Points
Check Point Research (CPR) tracks ‘Cavern Manticore’ as an Iran-nexus threat actor operating against Israeli targets, with a focus on the government and IT sectors.
Cavern Manticore shares technical overlaps with other Iranian MOIS (Ministry of Intelligence and Security)-linked threat actors, including MuddyWater and Lyceum.
CPR observed a modular C2 framework in the wild, with all samples built on top of .NET but compiled into different output formats. These components are used as Cavern agent and Cavern modules.
The framework’s anti-analysis posture relies on uncommon .NET compilation formats (Mixed-Mode C++/CLI and Native AOT) that force reverse engineers into multiple toolsets and metadata-reconstruction workflows, together with per-module AppDomain isolation as an anti-forensics measure.
In malware-engine coverage, the majority of observed samples score zero or very low detection rates on VirusTotal.
Post-exploitation modules provide the threat actor with extended capabilities, including file system and database browsing, LDAP querying, network reconnaissance, and tunneling.
In multiple observed intrusions, the initial foothold was achieved through abuse of existing Remote Monitoring and Management (RMM) software deployed in the targeted organization.
Introduction
Since early 2026, Check Point Research (CPR) has tracked a new modular command-and-control framework used by Cavern Manticore, an Iran-nexus APT group primarily targeting Israeli organizations, with a focus on IT providers, and government sectors. Cavern Manticore is an Iran MOIS …