PASSWORD STEALING WARE (PSW)
Cyber security company’s have reported from 2018 – 2019 they have seen a 60% spike increase in malware specifically designed to steal your passwords directly from your web browser. PSW’s target sensitive data such as; credit card numbers, bank logins, and passwords which utilize auto-fill, a common feature with most web browsers, that makes it much easier to steal this type of information.
SOURCE(S) OF INFECTION:
> Free downloadable online software
> Peer-to-peer online file sharing programs
> Harmless looking Email w/attachment or link
> Downloaded MS Word/Excel/Etc. documents asking to enable Macros
SYMPTOMS OF THIS TYPE OF MALWARE INCLUDE BUT NOT LIMITED TO:
> Anti-Virus becomes disabled
> Computer becomes slower/crashes
> Web Browser home page changed w/out your input
> Unusual messages begin appearing/popping up
> You’re sending out spam emails
WHAT CAN YOU DO?
> Never use any type of auto save features (user name/password)
> Always use a secondary authentication (when available) for online accounts
> Use private/incognito/safe mode via your web browser
> If using a desktop, use the on-screen keyboard when entering username/password
> Clear your web browser cookies constantly
> Utilize malware protection to guard/warn against questionable/unsecured websites
> Use a 3rd party vendor password manager (Ex. Last Pass)
NEVER UNDER ANY CIRCUMSTANCES:
Never give out your username/password to anyone
Article by Chris Howery- August 2019