Phishing Attack Uses Stolen Credentials to Install LogMeIn RMM for Persistent Access

Hold up, tech fam — researchers just dropped a nasty new phishing scheme that’s slicker than your average scam. It’s a two-stage attack that steals your email logins, then uses them to install LogMeIn Resolve RMM for persistent, hidden access to Windows systems. Yeah, they’re not just after your data — they want to live rent-free in your endpoints.

Here’s the play-by-play: Stage one is classic phishing — you get a fake email, click a link, and boom, your credentials are stolen. But stage two is where it gets wild. The attackers use those stolen logins to remotely install LogMeIn Resolve RMM (Remote Monitoring and Management) software. This isn’t some sketchy malware; it’s legit software used by IT teams, which means it can fly under the radar of many security tools.

Once installed, LogMeIn RMM gives the attackers persistent, hidden access to the compromised Windows machine. They can monitor activity, execute commands, and maintain control without raising alarms. It’s like giving a burglar the keys to your house and a security guard uniform — they blend right in.

The attack highlights a growing trend: cybercriminals are weaponizing legitimate tools to avoid detection. LogMeIn Resolve RMM is just one example; other RMM and remote access tools could be used similarly. This makes defense trickier, as blocking all legitimate software isn’t an option.

Key takeaways for the tech pros: 1) Phishing isn’t just about stealing data anymore — it’s a gateway to persistent access. 2) Monitor for unexpected installations of RMM or remote access software, even if they’re “legit.” 3) Multi-factor authentication (MFA) is non-negotiable — it could’ve stopped this attack cold at stage one.

Stay sharp, y’all. This attack shows that old-school phishing is evolving into something much more dangerous. Keep those endpoints locked down and your users educated — because the next click could cost more than just a password.