PhishBait

Slashdot reports that “Archive Formats Kill Antivirus Products.” Specially “fuzzed” archive files - including zip, tar, gz, and rar files - can disable and crash crash products from at least 40 vendors. Yes, that includes antivirus software.

Keep your security software updated, and don’t download any archive files from an untrusted source!

From: vnunet.com

Ransomware attacks target Symbian mobiles

Researchers have discovered malware which holds mobile phone data to ransom.The malware removes all sent and received text messages, and threatens to permanently cripple the handset unless users pay a fee.

Phishbait editors observe:

Phone-related attacks - both Symbian and Windows Handheld - can be spread via SMS / text messaging. So take care when responding to a message you don’t recognize.

Your mobile NEEDS anti-virus software as much as you regular PC does!

Read the full story: vnunet.com

A security firm has identified over 10,000 web pages rigged by cyber-criminals to hijack the PCs of unsuspecting surfers . . . The malware cocktail attempts to exploit vulnerabilities in Windows, RealPlayer and other applications to break into the PC

So even if you follow the rules of safe browsing, you can still run into problems? Absolutely. Like a supporting actor in a B-grade horror movie, that web site you’ve trusted could turn on you when you least suspect it, possessed and and attempting to seal your doom.

What can you do?

1. Keep ALL your software up-to-date

2. Double-check your URL and secure certificate each time you provide sensitive information.

3. Never agree to a download you didn’t ask for!

4. Change your browser settings to prompt you on redirects.

From ha.ckers.org:

I got this picture from a reader of the site. Apparently the reader was simply viewing Yahoo mail and poof, RougeIframe trojan. We are starting to see a lot more of this kind of stuff, but it’s really disappointing that third party ads are being displayed on otherwise sensitive apps (or at least I think most people feel they are sensitive).

Don’t think that webmail will keep you safe. Your browser is only as safe as the protection software you are running!

From CNN:

http://www.cnn.com/2008/TECH/ptech/03/13/factory.installed.virus.ap/

(AP) — From iPods to navigation systems, some of today’s hottest gadgets are landing on store shelves with some unwanted extras from the factory: pre-installed viruses that steal passwords, open doors for hackers and make computers spew spam . . . Thousands of people whose antivirus software isn’t up to date may have been infected without even knowing it, experts warn. And even protective software may not be enough.

1. Most of these devices connect to your computer using a USB port. Before connecting a device, make sure your anti-virus is up-to-date.
2. In the product instructions, you will probably find a URL for support or registration. If a problem HAS occurred with your product, this should be the first stop BEFORE you plug in the device.
3. Use your favorite search engine to search for your product AND virus. Also check popular review areas like Amazon.
4. Cheaper products like digital frames or low-end memory sticks should be checked carefully. Avoid non-name brands or used devices.

If you are looking to save $$, stick with trusted online merchants like Amazon or Tiger Direct.