In the old days, one simply had to draw their blinds to avoid peeping toms from spying on their private business. Now, it seems that even with the shades drawn, one must also shutter their webcam. Earlier this week, the FBI initiated a crackdown leading to the arrest of nearly 100 users of a program called Blackshades malware. This program allows hackers to remotely access the computers of their victims, enabling them to steal files, log passwords, and even turn on microphones and webcams unnoticed. This spying software could be purchased online for as little as $40 U.S.D.
Blackshades malware is referred to as a remote access tool (RAT), meaning it allows the hacker to gain full access to your machine as if he were sitting right in front of it. The technology behind this threat is similar to that used by the IT department at your office. When Joe IT Guy needs to access your work computer to install updates, fix an issue with your settings, or remotely control your machine for a variety of other reasons, he can with advanced warning and mutual understanding that he has the right to do so. Perpetrators of Blackshades malware aren’t quite as courteous.
Prior to the FBI crackdown this week, anyone with an Internet connection could purchase the Blackshades software, and they didn’t need to be a skilled hacker to use it, either. As security blogger Brian Krebs put it, “Blackshades was a tool created and marketed principally for buyers who wouldn’t know how to hack their way out of a paper bag.” The ease of use (and ease of purchase) associated with Blackshades malware illustrates the “hacking as a service” phenomenon, where anyone with the financial means necessary can become a cybercriminal. The software even came with tools known as “spreaders” which helped these novice cybercriminals distribute malicious links via social media, in an effort to infect more computers. As with most other malware attacks, Blackshades relies on you visiting an infected website or downloading an infected file in order to install a hacker’s malicious software on your computer.
The prepackaged malware also came with tools to help cybercriminals extract money from their victims, otherwise known as ransomware. Ransomware works by allowing the hacker to lock or encrypt files (sometimes even locking you out of your device completely), and then demand money in exchange for allowing you to regain access.
Blackshades malware is a multidimensional, robust software program with a relatively puny price tag. And just because the FBI has cracked down on its users, doesn’t mean it’s disappeared from the Web completely. In fact, this strain of malware has been around for years.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from virtual peeping toms:
Blackshades malware is referred to as a remote access tool (RAT), meaning it allows the hacker to gain full access to your machine as if he were sitting right in front of it. The technology behind this threat is similar to that used by the IT department at your office. When Joe IT Guy needs to access your work computer to install updates, fix an issue with your settings, or remotely control your machine for a variety of other reasons, he can with advanced warning and mutual understanding that he has the right to do so. Perpetrators of Blackshades malware aren’t quite as courteous.
Prior to the FBI crackdown this week, anyone with an Internet connection could purchase the Blackshades software, and they didn’t need to be a skilled hacker to use it, either. As security blogger Brian Krebs put it, “Blackshades was a tool created and marketed principally for buyers who wouldn’t know how to hack their way out of a paper bag.” The ease of use (and ease of purchase) associated with Blackshades malware illustrates the “hacking as a service” phenomenon, where anyone with the financial means necessary can become a cybercriminal. The software even came with tools known as “spreaders” which helped these novice cybercriminals distribute malicious links via social media, in an effort to infect more computers. As with most other malware attacks, Blackshades relies on you visiting an infected website or downloading an infected file in order to install a hacker’s malicious software on your computer.
The prepackaged malware also came with tools to help cybercriminals extract money from their victims, otherwise known as ransomware. Ransomware works by allowing the hacker to lock or encrypt files (sometimes even locking you out of your device completely), and then demand money in exchange for allowing you to regain access.
Blackshades malware is a multidimensional, robust software program with a relatively puny price tag. And just because the FBI has cracked down on its users, doesn’t mean it’s disappeared from the Web completely. In fact, this strain of malware has been around for years.
Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from virtual peeping toms:
- Do not click on links from unknown senders
- Use web protection when surfing online
- Avoid attachments from unknown senders
- Download apps, music, and movies from official sources
- Install comprehensive security on your system
Read this article also at: http://blogs.mcafee.com/consumer/blackshades-malware?lqmcat=Social:FB:WW:post:null:link:internal&utm_campaign=blog&utm_source=ncsa&utm_medium=facebook
