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Old 05-18-2010, 12:20 PM   #1
mitchell
Senior Yorkie Talker
 
Join Date: May 2005
Location: London UK
Posts: 228
Default Facebook Warning..

'Sexiest Video' Delivers Malware Download

Facebook users are being warned to resist temptation and avoid clicking on a message promising "without doubt the sexiest video ever".

The link appears in your newsfeed together with a picture of a pneumatic model or a woman on an exercise bike wearing a miniskirt.

But as is often the case the message delivers something far nastier than promised - in this case clicking the video link leads to a download of a programme that fills your computer with unwanted junk.

The malware installs 'adware' called Hotbar, which makes the creator money and will pop up adverts when you use Internet Explorer and Windows Explorer, reports Wired.co.uk.

The toolbar's buttons will change depending on the site, but it will generally open up more unpleasant sites if you click the buttons.

It'll also install skins for Internet Explorer, Outlook and Outlook express and start collecting user data, Wired says.

IT security and data protection company Sophos says thousands of people are falling for the trick.

A video demonstrating the scam has been posted to YouTube by Websense Security Labs.

Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos, said: "You may want to watch a sexy video, but you're more likely to end up being plagued by pop-up advertising.

"Not only is adware being installed on your computer, but the rogue Facebook application is posting the same message to all of your friends' accounts."

Facebook users hit by the attack are advised not to click on the links or allow the Facebook application to run.

Victims are urged to scan their computer with up-to-date anti-virus software, change passwords, and review all Facebook applications and settings, Mr Cluley said.

LINK
Facebook Sexiest Video Ever Security Threat: Adware Download Hits Thousands | Technology | Sky News
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