Last week, security researchers announced “ImageGate” – “Locky” ransomware spreading via picture files on social media sites like Facebook. When covering the story, TechNewsWorld looked to our very own Marc Laliberte to learn more about how serious the threat is and what can be done about it. Check out the brief excerpt below:
“Most social media sites, including Facebook specifically, have protections in place to block spam and dangerous file types. This most recent attack bypassed Facebook’s protections by using a specific type of image file that supports interactivity via embedded scripts, like JavaScript. Facebook has since added the image file type (SVG) used in this attack to their filter.
While Ransomware is always a serious threat to consumers, this new twist on its distribution raises the bar even higher. Consumers simply do not expect malware to be delivered via a Facebook message. Most people probably consider social media sites to be a safe space, so the lack of concern and vigilance makes it powerful as a potential infection channel for malware.”
Consumers should always be suspicious of attachments and web links they receive via email, and now Facebook messages – especially when they’re unsolicited. Attackers love to prey on people’s curiosity, which is why malware disguised as a fake image works so well.
You can find the complete article on TechNewsWorld, E-Commerce Times and LinuxInsider.