Group-IB Uncovers HEAVYGRAM Multi-Stage Windows Spyware Controlled via Telegram Bot API

Researchers at Group-IB have identified 29 new samples of HEAVYGRAM, a sophisticated multi-stage Windows malware designed to target journalists, Iranian dissidents, and government critics. The campaign begins with social engineering lures that deliver archives containing fake Telegram, KeePass, or video editor files, along with WSF, HTA, and Persian-language screensaver payloads. Once executed, the malware uses PowerShell to fetch additional components, establishes persistence through Windows startup mechanisms, and adds its directories to Microsoft Defender exclusions. The core implant, written in Python and packed with PyInstaller, supports DLL side-loading and communicates exclusively through Telegram Bot API to receive commands, capture screenshots, enumerate processes, and exfiltrate data. A particularly damaging capability allows theft of Telegram Desktop session files, enabling account hijacking without password re-entry. Group-IB attributes the operation to the Handala Hack group, linked to the Void Manticore persona also tracked as Storm-0842 and Red Sandstorm, believed to operate on behalf of Iranian intelligence services.

AntiMalwareSeptember 22, 2026Translated from Russian

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Researchers at Group-IB have discovered 29 new samples of HEAVYGRAM, a multi-stage Windows spyware that targets journalists, Iranian dissidents, and critics of the authorities. Operators control infected systems through Telegram bots, making the messaging platform function as a command-and-control channel.

The attack begins with classic social engineering. Attackers pose as acquaintances or technical support and send archives that appear to contain Telegram, KeePass, or a video editor. Additional lures include WSF and HTA scripts, fake presentations, and a Persian-language screensaver listing expelled students.

After execution, the malware downloads further components via PowerShell, registers itself for persistence in Windows startup, and adds its directories to Microsoft Defender exclusions. The main implant is written in Python, packaged with PyInstaller, and can employ DLL side-loading for stealthy execution.

HEAVYGRAM’s primary feature is its use of the Telegram Bot API. Through bots the malware accepts commands, executes arbitrary instructions, takes screenshots, lists running processes, and sends stolen data back to operators. It also steals session files from Telegram Desktop, allowing account takeover without requiring the victim’s password again.

Group-IB links the campaign to the Handala Hack group and its internet persona Void Manticore, also known as Storm-0842 and Red Sandstorm, which is assessed to act in the interests of Iranian intelligence. Defenders are advised to monitor PowerShell commands that modify Microsoft Defender exclusions, restrict unverified scripts, and inspect suspicious calls to the Telegram Bot API.

Microsoft Defender Group-IB HEAVYGRAM Handala Hack Void Manticore Storm-0842 Red Sandstorm

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