Cloudflare Argo Tunnel is a powerful tool that significantly simplifies creating secure connections for web servers and applications. However, like any powerful tool, it has a dark side: even hackers are finding ways to exploit it for their purposes.
Argo Tunnel provides the capability to create hidden HTTPS connections through Cloudflare’s infrastructure. This helps attackers bypass firewalls and improve stealth during attacks. Hackers need only run a single command on a compromised device using a unique tunnel token to set up a covert communication channel. This connection stays out of sight of many security systems and provides attackers with persistent access to compromised devices.
GuidePoint specialists have noted that attackers are actively using Cloudflare Tunnels to evade security measures and steal data with minimal chances of detection. By using Argo Tunnel, they can activate and deactivate connections as needed, such as for accessing RDP (Remote Desktop Protocol) to gather information and then cutting access, making their activities less noticeable.
Particularly concerning is the possibility of using the TryCloudflare feature, which allows one-time tunnels to be created without the need to register an account. This approach makes it easier for attackers to manipulate connections and create short-lived, nearly untraceable communication channels.
Because the tunnel uses the QUIC protocol (port 7844), the HTTPS traffic it generates rarely arouses suspicion from firewalls or other security solutions unless specifically configured to track it. This makes Cloudflare Argo Tunnel not only a convenient tool for businesses but also a potential threat that attackers can use to mask their activities.
