Hackers targeted trusted websites
By Joe Elvin
08/07/2011
Trusted social networking websites such as Facebook are becoming the main target for cyber-criminals, reports
The Herald Sun.
It has been suggested that hackers have been posting malicious links on various social networking profiles which can release dangerous malware so spy on a user's surfing.
Once planted onto a computer system, the malware can record and send sensitive details such as usernames and passwords back to their creators.
Using these details, hackers can post additional viruses to the online friends of those who have already been infected.
The news may encourage anyone who visits social networks, online banking or other websites containing sensitive information to invest in a network management system to help secure their privacy.
Speaking to truthdive.com, IT security expert Greg Singh explained that cyber-criminals are beginning to target an increased range of websites.
He said: "In times gone by, people used to pick up these types of malware infections typically from what we'd term 'dark places' on the internet, like when you go searching for free software. People would often pick it up at pornography sites or gambling sites.
"What's happening now is that the malware infection points are infiltrating trusted and popular websites. Quite often these sites have been hacked for use by cyber-criminal organisations."
