NZ Facebook Users Cautioned about New Malware Attack

Users of Facebook are getting targeted by one scam which tricks people to think that they have received the video from their friend. Kiwis are reporting to have received the mail from a friend within messenger app, which contain their first name, word video, and finally a small web link.

Martin Cocker, Executive Director of NetSafe, says that it is actually an external website link that begins to download malware into your computer.

Martin Cocker, CEO of Netsafe, said while speaking to TVNZ that this particular malware type could spread very rapidly because the message is sent to whole list of contacts of the user. Cocker further warned the people against using similar password for numerous services as well as networks because, if discovered, then it easily can also be tried on various other websites.

Users received one message in their Facebook Messenger from a friend saying "[your name] video [emoji]" and a compressed link that is similar to a video player. Tvnz.co.nz posted on August 23rd, 2017, stating that when users clicks on the video, the user was asked to install a script or an update, or sometimes even install that automatically, resulting the virus to take hold.

Similar message is further sent to all contacts of the user, and the cycle continues. Foreign media reported that this malware has affected the users in many other countries also, and that its likely motive may be to steal information like email accounts, browsing history, passwords, as well as internet provider information.

Martin Cocker, CEO of Netsafe, while speaking to TVNZ 1's Breakfast programme, says that this malware type had potential to rapidly spread among many computers. Martin Cocker further warned users against using of similar password for numerous online services because if your password is compromised on one site, then it is normally often gets tried on other sites as well.

Those who are infected should rapidly secure account by changing password, and also checking for any suspicious activities on their Facebook. Moreover, it is a smart idea to change passwords of other sensitive online services after getting infected. Also, Netsafe has reminded the people to keep the operating system and software updated, which can reduce the malware effects when it strikes.

» SPAMfighter News - 8/31/2017