Cyber security specialists have issued a warning about a new and sophisticated spyware that poses as Microsoft and Google Chrome applications in an attempt to defraud Microsoft device owners. The company ‘Proofpoint’ has been monitoring this dangerous threat since March and has observed scammers using advanced tactics to carry out their crimes, as reported by the New York Post. The malware is spreading widely, pretending to be fake updates for web browsers like Chrome and imitating popular applications such as Microsoft Word in order to trick people into downloading malicious code that can cause significant harm.
This Trojan horse cyberattack gains access to private files, cryptocurrencies, and individual user data by tricking people into installing malware through fake Google Chrome update notifications. The scammers manipulate victims into giving them cryptocurrency by taking money intended for someone else and diverting it to themselves. They also use email baiting, sending emails that appear to be from legitimate organizations or workplaces with attachments that contain fake error messages prompting users to install a fake Microsoft Word extension. Clicking on buttons in the email leads to the installation of a virus when in reality it is meant to solve the fake problem presented in the email.
The cyberattack campaign involved sending over 100,000 messages to thousands of organizations worldwide, according to Proofpoint. The misleading error messages are created through social engineering to appear as official notifications from the operating system. However, Proofpoint advises caution to protect oneself from such attacks, warning people not to download anything that seems suspicious or unauthorized. Legitimate software and browsers like Word and Chrome do not require users to input code in another program to function normally.
In summary, cyber security specialists are warning about a new spyware that masquerades as Microsoft and Google Chrome applications, aiming to defraud Microsoft device owners. The malware spreads widely, posing as fake updates for web browsers and well-known applications to trick people into downloading harmful code. The criminals behind the attack use tactics like email baiting to deceive victims and manipulate them into giving up cryptocurrencies. Proofpoint advises caution and vigilance to protect oneself from such attacks and prevent falling victim to these sophisticated cyber threats.
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https://m.economictimes.com/news/international/us/beware-these-malware-are-masquerading-as-microsoft-and-google-chrome-apps-to-cheat-you/amp_articleshow/111120555.cms