Many of us have often downloaded free movies from websites, which might not be so popular. But did you know that these websites are prone to malware known as ‘Peaklight.’ This new malware has currently circulated over the internet.
As reported by Mandiant, Google’s cyber security company, the malware is targeting people who download movies from illegal sites. The malware can also result in illegal consequences.
Decoding Peaklight
The ‘peaklight’ malware can be defined as a next-level malware which can infect Windows computers. But, how does the malware work? Peaklight secretly drains data from your device. Mandiant explained that this malware operates within the computer’s memory. As this leaves no trace in the hard drive, it becomes hard to identify it.
In an official blog, Mandiant highlights that Peakligt is a ‘memory-only’ dropper which decrypts and uses a ‘PowerShell-based’ downloader. Then this ‘PowerShell-based’ downloader is tracked as peaklight. Additionally, Peaklight can also download other malware into your computer. The list includes Lumma Stealer, CryptBot and Hijack loader. This is one of the most harmful and hard to crack malware found till now, said Mandiant.
The cybercriminals are spreading this malware, through fake movie downloads. For example while downloading movies from illegal websites, you might see a message ‘your movie is downloaded’. But wait, it’s not! In fact you have unknowingly downloaded ‘Peaklight’. This is why you should avoid downloading movies from suspicious sites.
How to stay safe
The team also said that hackers are secretly hiding this malware as Windows shortcut files (LNKs) inside ZIP folders. These folders might look like popular films but are not. Once these LNKs are opened it starts a chain of reactions.
It’s advisable that you don’t download movies from suspicious sites. It’s always better to download movies from reputable sites. For example, you can download movies from reputed platforms like Disney Hotstar and Amazon Prime video, among others. Also, you can stream videos online. For example you can stream online movies on Netflix and other similar platforms. So, movie buffs, next time you download any movie, be aware of the site you choose to download.
Furthermore, you can also stay safe by installing antivirus software on your computer. Please note that keep your antivirus software updated.
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