Facebook-based malware from 2016 is back, here are some tips to avoid it

The new malware is similar to the one by SilentFade gang that utilized a combination of Windows trojan, browser injections, clever scripting and a bug in the Facebook platform to target users on the particular social network.

Facebook app. (Unsplash)

On Safer Internet Day, digital security firm Kaspersky has revealed that one of the malware spreading campaigns that made its way to social media back in 2016, seems to have once again popped up in 2021. It has been revealed that the new malware is similar to the one by SilentFade gang that utilized a combination of Windows trojan, browser injections, clever scripting and a bug in the Facebook platform to target users on the particular social network.

To recall, the purpose of SilentFade's operations was to infect users with the trojan, hijack their browsers, and steal passwords and browser cookies so they can access user's Facebook accounts. Once they get the access, the hackers searched for accounts that had any type of payment method attached to their target's profile. Using the information, they bought Facebook ads with the victim's funds and promoted their ads through the Facebook advertising platform. Facebook even mentioned that the group managed to defraud infected users of more than $4 million.

As per the social network, these hackers seem to reside in China.

However, Kaspersky now says that it recently recorded Frank rootkit and found out that it has many similarities to the campaign run by the SilentFade gang. As per the analysis, India anks first with 603 infections in the last month. India is followed by Brazil (255 infections) and Indonesia (221).

So, how can you avoid it?

-Keep personal information professional and limited.

-Keep your privacy settings on.

-Practice safe browsing.

-Make sure your internet connection is secure. Use a secure VPN connection.

-Be careful what you downloads and clicks.

-Choose strong passwords.

-Make online purchases from secure sites.

-Be careful what you post.

-Keep your antivirus program up to date.