Today, Microsoft revealed that a Mark of the Web security bypass vulnerability exploited by attackers as a zero-day to bypass SmartScreen protection was patched during the June 2024 Patch Tuesday.

A new wave of attacks by the DarkGate malware operation exploits a now-fixed Windows Defender SmartScreen vulnerability to bypass security checks and automatically install fake software installers.

How Does Windows SmartScreen Filter Work? SmartScreen relies on reputation-based protection to protect your device from malicious or potentially unwanted apps and websites.

Phemedrone infostealer campaign has been found to exploit the Windows SmartScreen vulnerability for initial infections.