In recent months, malefactors have increasingly targeted users who illegally download films and software, infecting their devices with devastating malware. The latest such example is a campaign involving a malicious extension distributed alongside illegal copies of The Super Mario Bros. Movie.
The Risks of Illegally Downloading The Super Mario Bros. Movie
The malicious extension is designed to hijack browsers and collect sensitive information, including passwords. For decades, illegal downloads have been a popular way to watch TV shows, movies, and video games without paying the hefty price tag that comes with the official releases.
According to the story by Tom's Guide, as hackers continue to target those who pirate digital media, it becomes clear that illegally downloading content can be dangerous - not just in terms of the risk to the downloader's wallet but to their computer's security.
Recently, hackers have been targeting users who illegally download The Super Mario Bros. Movie. As reported by Axios, the hackers began targeting Illumination's latest film on April 30 after it was leaked on Twitter in its entirety and then quickly taken down.
Preventing Malware from Infecting Computers Through Illegal Downloads
While users think they've got away with downloading the movie for free, a trojan arrives on their computer alongside the movie. ReasonLabs, a cybersecurity firm, has identified the malware used in this campaign and found it already exists in over 150,000 computers or devices.
The malware operates by installing a malicious extension that actively seeks to hijack the user's browser and uses its permissions to collect sensitive data, such as passwords.
Though many viruses can hide in legitimate-looking files, there are some steps all users can take to protect themselves from this kind of malware better - particularly when it comes to illegal downloads.
Avoiding Illegal Downloading of Films and Software
The biggest thing all users should do to protect themselves is to avoid downloading films and software illegally, which puts them and their data at risk. Additionally, users should have the best antivirus software on their Windows PC, the best Mac antivirus on their Mac computer, and the best Android antivirus app on their Android smartphone.
These antivirus programs will scan the files users download for malware and let them know if they could be dangerous. Of course, the safest way to watch The Super Mario Bros. Movie (and any media) is to purchase the official version.
Taking the Necessary Precautions to Avoid Malware Infection
Amazon will stream The Super Mario Bros. Movie tomorrow (May 16) for $29. While the price tag may seem steep, it's much better than dealing with the risk of data theft and other issues caused by a malware infection. Just make sure users take the necessary precautions to avoid it in the first place.
Users can protect themselves further by avoiding unknown websites, enabling two-factor authentication, and using strong passwords everywhere. Each user should also review every permissions request from apps, as these can be an easy way for malware to access devices.
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