Adobe Flash is dead — Forget that and you could end up with malware
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For decades, Adobe Flash was one of the most-used pieces of software out there. It had plenty of functions but was most useful at ensuring that websites could display content correctly. If you were watching videos, listening to music or playing games in your browser in the ’90s, chances are you’re familiar with Flash.
But over time, the software became riddled with security vulnerabilities and became obsolete as operating systems and browsers gained new features. But while it’s effectively dead, it doesn’t mean you are clear from danger. Read on about how hackers still use outdated code to steal your details.
Say it with us: Flash is dead
To cut to the chase, Flash is no longer used by any operating system or internet browser — and there is no reason why it should be on your computer. Adobe discontinued the software in December 2020.
But not everybody is aware of this, and criminals are taking advantage. Targeting Google Chrome users, a malicious extension pretends to update your Flash Player but instead steals your details.
It looks like a legitimate extension but it’s actually the malicious Cloud9 browser botnet tool that hides a remote access trojan. Once installed, this fake extension can:
- Steal your online account data.
- Log your keyboard strokes.
- Inject malicious advertising into your browser.
- In some cases, it can use your machine as part of a large botnet to launch DDoS attacks.
According to cybersecurity company Zimperium, the first instance of this malware goes back to 2017, and it has been updated several times. The Cloud9 botnet is distributed for free or sold for a few hundred dollars on various hacker forums. It’s easy to use and cheap and is being used by many threat actors for their own purposes.
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How to keep your computer safe from malware
If you only download Chrome extensions from the official Google store, your chances of encountering Cloud9 are slim. But just because it’s rampant on third-party libraries and unofficial sources doesn’t mean you’re safe.
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No, that's not an angry email from your boss - Don't fall for this new scam
Americans are hard-working, and most of us take pride in what we do. So, it can be jarring when a customer or a colleague complains about your work ethic. The dreaded “I want to speak to the manager” or “Corporate will hear about this” is enough to ruin a perfect day. Tap or click here to save time in your workday with this new Slack trick.
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Time to patch your router! Yours might be open to a critical flaw being exploited
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