Cybersecurity company, Kaspersky, highlighted a significant growth of the SilentFade malware attacks in January, detecting 137 detected cases of the malware in Malaysia.
Kaspersky’s Security Expert, Anton Kuzmenko said that the monitoring on the SilentFade malware never stopped.
Detected files are like older versions detected which the industry peers have found links with an alleged Chinese company. In terms of distribution, there is a possibility that someone has sold the malware source codes, the gang are selling the rootkits, or the codes may have been leaked.
The purpose of the SilentFade malware operations is to infect users with the Trojan, hijack the users’ browsers, and steal passwords and browser cookies so the cybercriminals can access Facebook accounts.
According to Facebook, the social media platform has managed to defraud infected users of more than US$4 million despite the malware only operated for a few months.
“Threats on these platforms should be taken seriously in Southeast Asia given the region’s high internet and social media adoption. We urge all users from the region to boost their account’s security through multi-factor authentication, strong passwords, robust solutions, and a lot of vigilance,” General Manager for Southeast Asia at Kaspersky, Yeo Siang Tiong emphasised.
Kaspersky advised internet users to secure the computer, mobile devices, and data by installing an anti-malware solution in those devices to protect against the virus.
Secondly, get a temporary credit card that can be used only for one-time purchases. However, avoid using the temporary credit card for purchases that require auto-renewal r regular payments.
Additionally, use a dedicated machine for all online financial transactions that is free from any kinds of computer virus. To keep the computer clean, avoid using the device for casual browsing, social networking, or emailing.
The security expert concluded by advising internet users to manage and protect online passwords carefully. It is better to use a password manager and encrypt passwords that are used in multiple accounts.
