{"id":64056,"date":"2023-02-27T14:33:45","date_gmt":"2023-02-27T06:33:45","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/version-2.com\/?p=64056"},"modified":"2024-09-13T16:31:26","modified_gmt":"2024-09-13T08:31:26","slug":"how-nameless-malware-steals-your-data-and-gets-away-with-it","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/version-2.com\/en\/2023\/02\/how-nameless-malware-steals-your-data-and-gets-away-with-it\/","title":{"rendered":"How nameless malware steals your data (and gets away with it)"},"content":{"rendered":"
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<\/p>

Imagine if malware got into your computer. In fact, how do you know it isn\u2019t there already? With some help from third-party researchers, we uncovered and analyzed a database of stolen data. It\u2019s big \u2014 and the victims likely never knew their files had been stolen.<\/p>

The discovery of a stolen database<\/h2>

We want to make it clear: we did not purchase this database nor would we condone other parties doing it. A hacker group revealed the database location accidentally. The analysis of the database<\/a> was conducted in partnership with a third-party company specializing in data breach research. The cloud provider hosting the data was notified so it can be taken down.<\/p>

1.2 TB database of stolen data<\/h2>

The stolen database contained 1.2 TB of files, cookies, and credentials that came from 3.2 million Windows-based computers. The data was stolen between 2018 and 2020. The database included 2 billion cookies. The analysis revealed that over 400 million, or 22%, of those cookies were still valid at the time when the database was discovered.<\/p>

We now know that the virus escaped with 6 million files it grabbed from Desktop<\/span> and Downloads<\/span> folders. 3 million text files, 900,00 image files, and 600,000+ Word files made up the bulk of the stolen database, but it also contained over 1,000 types of different files.<\/p>

Screenshots made by the malware reveal that it spread via illegal software (Adobe Photoshop), Windows cracking tools, and pirated games. Moreover, the malware also photographed the user if the device had a webcam.<\/p>

The dangers of custom malware<\/h2>

Just like with hurricanes, experts love naming dangerous malware. But computer viruses don\u2019t have to have names to be capable of stealing lots of data. The truth is, anyone can get their hands on custom malware. It\u2019s cheap, customizable, and can be found all over the web.<\/p>

Dark web ads for these viruses uncover even more truth about this market. For instance, anyone can get their own custom malware and even lessons on how to use the stolen data for as little as $100. And custom does mean custom – advertisers promise that they can build a virus to attack virtually any app the buyer needs.<\/p>

How to stay safe<\/h2>

Based on the feedback from the researchers, it may be impossible to tell whether a file is infected. If the malware is new, no antivirus can recognize it. The only way to stay safe is to follow good cyber hygiene rules:<\/p>

  • Web browsers are not good at protecting sensitive data. Use password managers to protect your credentials and auto-fill information.<\/li>
  • Malware can\u2019t access encrypted files. Services like NordLocker protect your files both on your computer and the cloud, so malware can\u2019t just grab them.<\/li>
  • Some cookies are valid for 90 days, and some don\u2019t expire for an entire year. Make deleting cookies a monthly habit.<\/li>
  • Peer-to-peer networks are often used for spreading malware. Only download software from the developer\u2019s website and other well-known sources.<\/li>
  • All malware gets recognized eventually. Make sure that your antivirus is always updated to prevent old viruses from slipping through the cracks.<\/li><\/ul><\/div>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t
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    About Version 2 Digital<\/h3>

    Version 2 Digital is one of the most dynamic IT companies in Asia. The company distributes a wide range of IT products across various areas including cyber security, cloud, data protection, end points, infrastructures, system monitoring, storage, networking, business productivity and communication products.\n

    \nThrough an extensive network of channels, point of sales, resellers, and partnership companies, Version 2 offers quality products and services which are highly acclaimed in the market. Its customers cover a wide spectrum which include Global 1000 enterprises, regional listed companies, different vertical industries, public utilities, Government, a vast number of successful SMEs, and consumers in various Asian cities.<\/p><\/div><\/div>\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\n\t\t

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    About NordLayer
    <\/strong>NordLayer is an adaptive network access security solution for modern businesses \u2013 from the world\u2019s most trusted cybersecurity brand, Nord Security.<\/p>

    The web has become a chaotic space where safety and trust have been compromised by cybercrime and data protection issues. Therefore, our team has a global mission to shape a more trusted and peaceful online future for people everywhere.<\/p>\t\t\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t\t\t\t<\/div>\n\t\t<\/section>\n\t\t\t\t<\/div>","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

    Imagine if malware got into your computer. 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