US elections become latest malware lure

The United States presidential primaries have become the latest lure for spreading malware.

Security researchers have found that attackers are using videos of candidates to tempt users into downloading Trojan applications.

Researchers at Symantec and McAfee have both reported that malware distributors are using senator and presidential candidate Hillary Clinton as bait for a malicious file download.

Symantec warned of an attack which uses spam emails so spread a malicious application. Users are promised a video of Clinton speaking, only to be given a file named 'mpg.exe.' That file then downloads another Trojan application which infects the user's system.

Researchers at McAfee noted a similar attack which uses links hidden inside of email messages. The email also promises a video of Clinton speaking, but instead redirects to a page hosted on Google ads. That page then redirects to another site which attempts to download and install a Trojan application.

The attacks have surfaced in the midst of the US presidential primaries and eight days after "super Tuesday" in which a number of large states cast their votes for each party's presidential candidate.

"It’s actually surprising we didn’t see more of this attack yesterday–the week’s anniversary of Super Tuesay," noted McAfee researcher Alex Hinchliffe in company blog.

McAfee noted that the Clinton blogs are similar to another series of attacks which offer videos of pop stars Jennifer Lopez, Beyonce, and Britney Spears.

"We urge you to be vigilant and keep your anti-spam and anti-malware protection up to date," wrote Hinchliffe.

"Remember, if it sounds too good to be true, it normally is."

Copyright ©v3.co.uk

becomeelectionslatestluremalwaresecurityus