Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence estimates that 2.3 million bank cards were leaked on the dark web, based on an analysis of data-stealing malware log files from 2023-2024. On average, every 14th infostealer infection results in stolen credit card information, with nearly 26 million devices compromised by infostealers, including more than 9 million in 2024 alone. Kaspersky released its report on the infostealer threat landscape while the technology world gathers at MWC 2025 in Barcelona.

Kaspersky experts estimate that approximately 2,300,000 bank cards have been leaked on the dark web. This conclusion is based on an analysis of the log files from data-stealing malware, dated 2023-2024, that were leaked on the dark web market. While globally the share of leaked cards is well below one percent, 95% of the observed numbers appear technically valid.

Infostealer malware is not only designed to extract financial information, but also credentials, cookies and other valuable user data, which is compiled into log files and then distributed within the dark web underground community. An infostealer can infect a device if a victim unknowingly downloads and runs a malicious file, for example one disguised as legitimate software, such as a game cheat. It can be spread through phishing links, compromised websites, malicious attachments in emails or messengers and various other methods. It targets both personal and corporate devices.

On average, every 14th infostealer infection results in stolen credit card information. Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence experts found that nearly 26 million devices running Windows were infected with various types of infostealers in the past two years.

“The actual number of infected devices is even higher. Cybercriminals often leak stolen data in the form of log files months or even years after the initial infection, and compromised credentials and other information continue to surface on the dark web over time. Therefore, the more time passes, the more infections from previous years we observe. We forecast the total number of devices infected with infostealer malware in 2024 to be between 20 million and 25 million, while for 2023, the estimate ranges between 18 million and 22 million,” says Sergey Shcherbel, expert at Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence.

In 2024, Redline remained the most widespread infostealer, accounting for 34% of the total number of infections.

The most significant surge in 2024 was in infections caused by Risepro, whose share of total infections increased from 1.4% in 2023 to almost 23% in 2024. “RisePro is a growing threat. It was first discovered two years ago but seems to be gaining momentum. The stealer primarily targets banking card details, passwords and cryptocurrency wallet data, and may be spreading under the guise of key generators, cracks for various software and game mods,” explains Sergey Shcherbel. Another rapidly growing stealer is Stealc, which first appeared in 2023 and increased its share from nearly 3% to 13%.

Caterpillar equipment dealer UTE has delivered the country’s largest Cat D8 Track-Type Tractor to NEM Construction Pvt. Ltd., marking a significant milestone in heavy machinery. This delivery strengthens the long-standing partnership between UTE and NEM Construction, which spans over 45 years. The Cat D8 is expected to boost operational efficiency in large-scale projects. As the sole authorized dealer for Caterpillar in Sri Lanka, UTE continues to provide top-tier machinery and after-sales support. The handover is particularly notable as Caterpillar celebrates its 100th anniversary. NEM Construction’s Chairman, Raja Nanayakkara, praised the Cat D8’s superior performance and UTE’s unmatched service and parts support, which have been key to the company’s long-term collaboration. This purchase highlights the continued trust in both Caterpillar and UTE’s expertise in supporting Sri Lanka’s construction industry.

Cutting-edge tyre technology that can transform the cost and performance dynamics of Sri Lanka’s transportation sector has been unveiled by CEAT Kelani Holdings, reinforcing the CEAT brand’s leadership in the country’s truck and light truck tyre market.

The launch of the all-new CEAT ‘Load Max Pro’ series brings to the market three bias-ply tyre sizes that can offer transporters of goods impressive mileage that translates to a cost of less than Rs 2 per kilometer per tyre, the company said.

The first two sizes of the series, the CEAT Load Max Pro 18++ 10.00-20 and the CEAT Load Max Pro 7.50-16 were launched at an event for dealers and industry stakeholders at the Cinnamon Lakeside – Colombo recently at which guests were treated to an insight into the latest tyre design and build technology that enhances performance, durability, and cost efficiency for commercial vehicles.

The CEAT Load Max Pro 18++ tyre in the 10.00 – 20 size is for heavy trucks like Lanka Ashok Leyland and Tata, flatbeds, fuel bowser trucks and cement carriers, while the CEAT Load Max Pro in the 7.50-16 size is for light trucks such as Isuzu Elf, Mitsubishi Fuso Canter Fe/Fg, Tata Marco Polo and Eicher Skyline.

Commenting on this latest product launched in Sri Lanka, CEAT Kelani Chief Operating Officer Mr Shamal Gunawardene said: “The CEAT Load Max tyre series is a testament to CEAT Kelani’s commitment to innovation and excellence, ensuring Sri Lanka’s transport sector continues to move forward with reliability and efficiency. With this launch, CEAT strengthens its position as the highest-selling brand and the most preferred choice among customers in the transportation sector by delivering superior performance, higher mileage and lower operational costs to fleet owners and transport operators.”