Beware of the Dorkbot virus if you use Skype: the malware is also arriving on the instant messaging program. Here’s how to recognize it and what to do to avoid it.
There is a new cyber threat that is rapidly infiltrating many PCs: it is called Dorkbot and it is an already known virus.
Until some time ago, in fact, Dorkbot exploited the Facebook platform to propagate. Today, however, this malware is also spreading on Skype, becoming increasingly dangerous.
Recognizing this malware is essential to avoid falling into its trap, regardless of the platform you are using.
Dorkbot is indeed known for manifesting itself disguised as chat windows. The connected user is offered a conversation that begins with a message – usually in English or German – aimed at capturing the attention of the unsuspecting user.
Rather than a conversation, you find yourself facing a short sentence with a link.
In the unfortunate event of clicking on this link, you will find yourself downloading a compressed file, consisting of some Trojan-type executables.
In practice, you will be dealing with spyware installed on your PC and, even worse, the malicious program will also activate a connection to a botnet.
In this second eventuality – entirely automatic and therefore unavoidable – the user will see a message appear stating that all files on the PC have been encrypted and that, to regain full access and use, they will have to pay 200 euros within a short period, usually 24 or 48 hours.
If this deadline expires and payment is not made, the files will be deleted.
It is the cybersecurity company Sophos that has highlighted the risks and dangers arising from accepting the initial download offered in the fake chat window.
The only valid advice is to avoid opening the attached link, paying attention to which contact sent the fake conversation request.
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