As our lives move increasingly online, it’s essential to take steps to protect your information from cybercriminals.
Malware can be used to steal sensitive data, such as passwords and credit card information.
A new variant of this type of malware, Raccoon Stealer, was discovered recently on hacker forums. The updated malware version is more dangerous than its predecessor and is sold to hackers for as little as $50.
Read on to learn more about how this malware works and what you can do to protect yourself from it.
How it works
Your browser can store usernames, passwords, addresses, and credit card information. And, AutoComplete makes it easy to fill in details on websites. But, it’s not as safe as you may think.
Rather than keeping your information saved in your browser, it’s better to use a good password manager.
Malware often gets better and better as the developers make small improvements. An example of this is the Raccoon Stealer malware.
This malware was used by several groups of cybercriminals starting in 2019 but then stopped last March. However, in early June, cybersecurity company Sekoia found that a new version of Racoon Stealer had popped up on hacker forums.
The two-month hiatus was caused by the death of one of its developers during the Russian invasion of Ukraine. However, version two of Raccoon Stealer can inflict more damage than the previous variant.
Malware can be distributed through fake installers or cracked versions of popular software.
After your computer is infected, Raccoon Stealer can Steal passwords, cookies, and autocomplete information from your browsers. It can infiltrate browser-based and desktop cryptocurrency wallets. And it can steal data from individual system files. It will even take screenshots of your computer screen.
It’s frightening to think that a small bit of code can cause so much damage.
What can you do about it?
Defending yourself against this latest version of Raccoon Stealer, like any other malware, requires strictly following long-established security practices.
For example, you should never click on a link or open an attachment in a message if you don’t know the sender. Even if you do know the sender, it’s essential to take the time to verify a message’s authenticity before clicking on any links or opening attachments.
Attackers often spoof message headers in a way that makes it look like the message was sent by someone you know or some legitimate companies.
Here are some tips to help you protect your data from Racoon Stealer and other malware…
1) Use a good password manager, like Roboform, rather than storing your passwords and other information directly in your browser. It is best not to reuse the same passwords in your accounts. Password Managers keep your login information secured, especially if you have a lot of them.
2) Always update your operating system, browser, and other apps to the latest versions. Regular updating will help keep your device safe by giving you the latest security patches.
3) Do not click on links or open attachments in emails or text messages you did not ask for.
4) It is never a good idea to download files from third-party libraries. You should always go to the official source website and make sure that you are installing the correct app.
5) Not only is downloading pirated software dishonest, but it’s also a common way for hackers to spread malware.
In conclusion, it’s essential to take steps to protect your information online. One way to do this is to use a password manager rather than letting your browser store your critical details.
Additionally, you should always update your operating system, browser, and apps to the latest versions.
Finally, do not click on links or open attachments in emails or text messages you did not ask for.
Following these simple tips above can help keep your information safe from malware like Raccoon Stealer.
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I let Safari generate passwords and keep them there. It seems you are telling me this is unsafe. What do you recommend?