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ESET warns of global wave of HTML/FakeAlert malware

Created: 2016-10-06 04:10:59

ESET has detected a new global campaign using the HTML/FakeAlert malware first seen in December, 2009. The designation is the generic detection name created by ESET for bogus web pages showing made-up, fake alert messages, usually about dummy virus infections or some other technical problems.

Typically used as a starting point for so called Support Scams, users’ fall victim by making expensive premium or international calls or by having other malware installed on their computers via “recommended” but fake, security programs found on the (fake) alert page.

After years of marginal activity, HTML/FakeAlert malware began showing higher prevalence levels in Q2 2016. On September, 17th, 2016, it reached 2.05 % of the global infection ratio, an all-time high.

The current campaign, analyzed here from (5th Sept. to 5th Oct.), stands out because France features as the country with the highest share of infection at 24.98%, followed by bi-lingual Canada at 24.78%, the U.S. with 15.43%, and the UK with 10.40%. Interestingly, Spain also charts with 8.98%.

“Support scams have long been a very popular way to dupe English-speaking users who make up a large and thus economically viable target, in this case we also see the targeting of other large language groups.” comments ESET IT Security Specialist EMEA, Ondrej Kubovic.

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About ESET
ESET®, the pioneer of proactive protection and the maker of the award-winning ESET NOD32® technology, is a global provider of security solutions for businesses and consumers. For over 26 years, the Company continues to lead the industry in proactive threat detection. By obtaining the 80th VB100 award in June 2013, ESET NOD32 technology holds the record number of Virus Bulletin "VB100” Awards, and has never missed a single “In-the-Wild” worm or virus since the inception of testing in 1998. In addition, ESET NOD32 technology holds the longest consecutive string of the VB100 awards of any AV vendor. ESET has also received a number of accolades from AV-Comparatives, AV-TEST and other testing organisations and reviews. ESET NOD32® Antivirus, ESET Smart Security®, ESET Cyber Security® (solution for Mac), ESET® Mobile Security and IT Security for Business are trusted by millions of global users and are among the most recommended security solutions in the world.

ESET recently updated its two-factor authentication (2FA) application, adding a secure validation to weak and static user passwords. This updated version of ESET’s 2FA application provides flexibility and deeper integration of 2FA into bespoke applications, making it the best cost-effective solutions for SMBs everywhere.

The Company has global headquarters in Bratislava (Slovakia), with regional distribution centers in San Diego (U.S.), Buenos Aires (Argentina), and Singapore; with offices in Jena (Germany), Prague (Czech Republic) and Sao Paulo (Brazil). ESET has malware research centers in Bratislava, San Diego, Buenos Aires, Singapore, Prague, Košice (Slovakia), Krakow (Poland), Montreal (Canada), Moscow (Russia) and an extensive partner network for more than 180 countries. For more information visit https://eset.version-2.sg/ or follow us on Facebook.

 

About Version 2 Limited
Version 2 Limited is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. Headquartered in Hong Kong, the Company develops and distributes IT products for Internet and IP-based networks, including communication systems, Internet software, security, network, and media products. Through an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 Limited offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which includes Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.

For more information, please visit www.version-2.com.sg or call (65) 6296-4268.

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