With the popularity of Netflix’s “Squid Game” TV series, there were reports earlier that hundreds of apps appeared in the Google Play store, and many apps with high downloads were exposed to hidden dangers. At the same time, Kaspersky researchers pointed out:Since September, they have found dozens of malicious content under the banner of “Squid Game” on the Internet, and most of the files contain Trojan horse downloaders.
“Squid Game” stills (from: Netflix)
Obviously, the attackers are trying to trick victims into getting hooked through this disguise, trying to install other malicious programs on their devices. In addition, there are some so-called adware, which is essentially to steal credit card information and launch fraudulent publicity.
In one case, Kaspersky even saw an animated game. The feature of the Trojan horse software is that it can steal web browser data quietly when the victim is watching it and send it back to the attacker. And it will create a hidden shortcut to start the malware itself every time the system starts.
Kaspersky pointed out that these malicious apps with the theme of “Squid Game” are mostly distributed through third-party app stores. They usually disguise themselves as harmless apps, games or e-books, falsely claiming to provide downloadable program clips, but in essence they distribute data-stealing Trojans.
In addition, on Thursday, Proofpoint also stated that its researchers had targeted a cybercriminal organization, saying that it was using Squid Game subject phishing emails to distribute the infamous Dridex malware.
It is reported that Dridex is a very destructive online banking Trojan. If it is infected, the data may be stolen in the slightest, and other malicious software (such as file encryption ransomware) may be installed.
Proofpoint stated that it discovered thousands of emails earlier this week in which the attacker claimed to have a relationship with the show producer in order to trick victims who want to participate in the next episode into the bait.
Based on this, Kaspersky specifically reminds the majority of netizens, hoping that everyone can pay attention to phishing emails such as wallpaper themes, online games, and second season previews during Halloween.
More importantly, when asked to provide personal information, be sure to develop the habit of always carefully checking the authenticity of the website and only obtaining video resources and other documents through official channels.
