1 Million Devices Infected with Malware from Watching Movies on Pirated Sites – Beware of Cyber Threats

Beware! One Million Devices Infected with Malware from Streaming on Pirated Sites

beritapekanbaru.com -Microsoft has recently uncovered an alarming cybersecurity threat. Their latest report reveals that two pirated streaming sites have infected nearly one million devices worldwide through malicious ads that redirect users to malware.

Pirated Streaming Sites as a Hotbed for Malware

In a report released on Thursday (March 6), Microsoft's security team stated that this attack was widespread and opportunistic, with the primary goal of stealing information from users' devices. Microsoft identified two main domains responsible for spreading the malware: movies7[.]net and 0123movie[.]art.

The ads displayed on these sites silently direct users to fraudulent tech support pages. From there, users are further redirected to sites hosted on popular platforms such as Discord, Dropbox, and GitHub, which unknowingly contain dangerous malware.

How Does the Malware Infect Users' Devices?

Microsoft has not provided specific details on how these fraudulent websites appear. However, based on previous attack patterns, these pages likely trick users into downloading fake software or updates that are actually malware. Once installed, this malware can steal sensitive information from devices, monitor online activity, and even take remote control of a user's computer.

Hackers also employ sophisticated methods to conceal the malicious nature of their attacks. They use digitally signed software certificates, giving the illusion that the programs are legitimate. This tactic makes it harder for security systems to detect the malware.

"By mid-January 2025, the first-stage payload was found to be digitally signed with a newly created certificate. A total of twelve different certificates were identified, all of which have since been revoked," Microsoft stated in their report.

Once the first stage is successful, the malware then downloads the second-stage payload. This is the most dangerous phase, as it enables hackers to collect device data and send it to their servers. Additionally, the malware can install extra software that allows cybercriminals to spy on users' browsing activities and manipulate web browsers such as Firefox, Chrome, and Edge.

An Indiscriminate Cyber Attack

Microsoft first detected this attack in early December 2024. They noted that the infection affected various organizations and industries, targeting both individual and corporate devices. This highlights that the attack was carried out indiscriminately, affecting anyone accessing pirated streaming sites.

Fortunately, hosting services such as GitHub, Discord, and Dropbox have taken action by removing pages used to spread the malware. Additionally, Microsoft has confirmed that Microsoft Defender, Windows' built-in security software, has now been updated to detect and prevent threats from the malware used in this attack.

How to Protect Yourself from Malware Threats

Given the increasing sophistication of cyber attacks, users must be more cautious when browsing websites and downloading software from untrusted sources. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from malware threats:

1. Avoid pirated sites – Illegal sites are often hotspots for dangerous malware.
2. Keep your security software updated – Ensure that your antivirus and firewall are always active and regularly updated.
3. Verify sources before downloading files – Do not fall for links offering free software or movies without proper verification.
4. Ignore suspicious pop-ups – If a webpage suddenly prompts you to download something, close it immediately.
5. Use legal streaming services – In addition to being safe, official platforms offer better viewing quality without malware risks.

Malware attacks through pirated streaming sites are rising as digital content consumption grows. Therefore, always be cautious when browsing the internet to avoid cyber threats that could harm your finances and privacy.

With increasing reports of this threat, it is hoped that internet users will be more mindful when selecting digital entertainment platforms. Don't let the desire to watch free movies lead to data theft or even losing control of your device.