Panda Software Warns Cybercrooks Target Online Games18 May 2006
In a new malware dynamic, malware creators are now motivated by financial gain rather than notoriety; cybercrooks are finding creative approaches to make money -- including targeting online games. Cybercrooks are now going after login details needed to install and access online games. These criminals are trying to rob players of "virtual assets" obtained in the games, such as virtual money that players can use to buy weapons, powers, etc. in the game. Given the effort required to obtain these items, there are many people prepared to pay for them as an easy way to reach higher levels and increase their reputations. The virtual economy of the game translates into real profits for the cybercrook.
With the increasing number of games available online, there are many opportunities for cybercrooks willing to exploit this lucrative by-product of online games. There is now the risk that a whole new business model could be operated by cyber-mafias, stealing virtual assets and selling them for real money to the highest bidder.
The malware that most frequently affects games are Trojans. The Lineage virus steals player login details, allowing another player to steal virtual money to buy weapons, privileges or abilities within the game. The different variations of the Legmir virus target players of "Legend of Mir," stealing their passwords. Gaobot and its variants -- although more widely known for their bot characteristics -- also try to get in on the act, stealing the CD keys of several games and spreading to new victims. They open a backdoor on infected computers, making them vulnerable to future attacks. In addition, "World of Warcraft" players could be affected by Trj/WoW.
According to Luis Corrons, director of Panda Software Labs, "The new financial motivation for malware creators and the professionalization of malware has led cybercriminals to turn to selling virtual assets for potential returns."
It is important to consider the damage that this malware, which allows unauthorized users to play using stolen login details or CD keys, represents for game developers. If companies block access to the key to prevent the fraud, legitimate users will also be blocked -- this may cause subsequent confusion, annoyance or a negative impression of the company.
Panda advises that players who want to protect their virtual assets should make sure that they use legal software untampered by third parties. Players should also be wary of files sent over e-mail or chat sessions, especially those accompanied by messages promising a benefit or profit. In particular, users should not open any attachments unless they are completely sure that they come from a trusted source. Another key to preventing infection and the spread of malicious software is to use an integrated security solution with preventive technologies, such as Platinum 2006 Internet Security. Safe practices and being aware of these threats and the ways in which they spread will help to reduce victimization.
About Panda Software Labs
Is your computer free from viruses, spyware and other Internet threats? Use the free online scanner, Panda ActiveScan: http://www.activescan.com.
Since 1990, its mission has been to analyze new threats as rapidly as possible to keep our clients safe. Several teams, each specialized in a specific type of malware (viruses, worms, Trojans, spyware, phishing, spam, etc), work 24/7 to provide global coverage. To achieve this, they also have the support of TruPrevent(TM) Technologies, which act as a global early-warning system made up of strategically distributed sensors to neutralize new threats and send them to Panda Software Labs for in-depth analysis. According to AV-Test.org, Panda Software Labs is currently the fastest laboratory in the industry in providing complete updates to users (more info at http://www.pandasoftware.com/pandalabs.asp).
For more information: http://www.pandasoftware.com/virus_info
To access the latest Panda Software press releases, please visit http://onlinepressroom.net/panda.
For more information:
Carolina Sanabria
Public Relations Manager
Panda Software, USA
Tel: 818-543-6909
pr@pandasecurity.com
Source: prnewswire
All trademarks and copyrighted information contained herein are the property of their respective owners.
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