Hackers Have Been Using Game Of Thrones Leaks To Spread Malware Amongst The Show's Fans
Emails promising early releases of the last few episodes draw users in so they install hidden malware.
Game of Thrones has taken over most people¡¯s free time this past month, with the various leaks allowing access to some episodes before their time. Some might have been grateful for the early releases, while others would prefer to wait it out, but it looks like one of those groups has been targeted by custom-made scams.
Cybersecurity company Proofpoint has released a report saying it¡¯s spotted a ¡°targeted email campaign¡± directed at users looking for GoT spoilers. The emails claim to contain leaks surrounding the show, instead affecting recipient¡¯s computers with malware.
The company first discovered the trend on August 10, when they uncovered an email titled ¡°Wanna see the Game of Thrones in advance?¡± They say these emails contained general information regarding upcoming episodes, and an attached Word file with malware hidden inside. The minute users downloaded the attachment, it would run a code installing a 9002 remote access Trojan on the system. The Trojan creates a backdoor that allows the perpetrators access to your computer from any location in the world, without your knowledge. Proofpoint points out that attacks similar to this have been carried out in the past by groups associated with the Chinese government, and this new malware plague could be originating from the same source.
Image courtesy: Proofpoint
Earlier in July, hackers stole 1.5TB of data from HBO (finally leaking the season finale over this weekend) while unrelated incidents have also resulted in two episodes of Game of Thrones being leaked early. However, Proofpoint says the incidents are not connected with this malware. The perpetrators are simply recognising a demand for a particular digital commodity and capitalising on it to achieve their own goals
Game of Thrones might be over and done for now, seeing as the season finale airs today, but you¡¯d probably do well to remember these types of scams exist when Season 8 rolls around. Direwolves and dragons aren¡¯t worth compromising your security over, at least not since you can¡¯t really ride either yourself.
