Warning is directed at users who download apps from sites that are not trusted.
Using a new malware campaign that makes use of pirated programs to propagate information-stealing malware, the National Information Technology Development Agency has issued a warning to Nigerians against the downloading of cracked versions of software.
Any software that is intentionally designed to cause disruption to a computer, server, client, or computer network, leak private information, gain unauthorized access to information or systems, deprive access to information, or which unknowingly interferes with the user’s computer security and privacy is referred to as malware.
Computer viruses, worms, Trojan horses, logic bombs, ransomware, spyware, adware, rogue software, wipers, and keyloggers are some of the subtypes of malware that researchers typically categorize. Other subtype include logic bombs
Hackers are injecting malware strains such as Lummar Stealer and ACR Stealer into unlicensed software, according to an alert that was published by the agency’s Computer Emergency Readiness and Response Team on Monday. The warning is directed at users who download apps from sites that are not trusted.
The alert reads, “If a device is infected, the malware can also deploy additional payloads, further compromising affected systems.”
According to the National Information Technology Development Authority (NITDA), once the virus is activated, it stealthily harvests sensitive information such as passwords stored in the browser, session cookies and cryptocurrency wallets. This might potentially result in financial loss, account takeovers, and identity theft.
Users were encouraged by NITDA to steer clear of cracked versions of software, to only download applications from reputable sources, and to ensure that their software was always available with the most recent updates.
Users were also strongly encouraged to enable Multi-Factor Authentication and to install the most recent versions of antivirus and anti-malware software onto their computers.
It was recommended by the organization that users who were looking for additional information or assistance get in touch with CERRT.NG by sending an email to cerrt@nitda.gov.ng, calling +234 817 877 4580, or visiting their website at www.cerrt.ng.