Ahead of the release of HBO’s new series based on the hit video game The Last of US, cybercriminals have already launched several new scams designed to steal financial data and infect vulnerable PCs with malware. creating.
New fans of the series will want to come back and play the original game when the new show releases on January 13th. To take advantage of this, cybercriminals have already provided downloads. Last of Us The game’s PC port won’t arrive until March, but it’s available on PC.
According to a new report from a cybersecurity firm Kasperskythe researcher discovered a site offering downloads of The Last of Us Part II for PC. The problem here, however, is that, like its predecessor, the game’s sequel is not yet available or announced for PC.
If an unsuspecting user ends up on a site that offers games for free, malicious file It downloads to your PC, not the actual game. In an email to her analyst Tom’s Guide to Kaspersky’s Web Content, Olga Svistunova provided further insight into the damage these malicious files can do, stating: says so.
“The malicious files distributed range from Trojans that can harvest your personal data, passwords and bank card details without your knowledge, to encrypting all files on your device and demanding a ransom from cybercriminals. Everything from ransomware, please try to regain access in a few hours.”
Activation Codes and “Free” Gifts
In addition to The Last of Us Part II download sites, Kaspersky researchers also found: Phishing site Gives you an activation code for The Last of Us. However, before you can download the game’s installation file, including the activation code, you must first choose from several “gifts”, such as a brand new Playstation 5 or the $100 Roblox gift card you receive with the game. .
After choosing a free gift, the user will be asked to enter their credentials and banking information to pay the fee. Not only will you lose the game, but you’ve given your financial information freely to cybercriminals. identity theft.
Kaspersky also points to the fact that cybercriminals are taking a different approach with The Last of US. They usually try to trick potential victims by giving them early access to the HBO series, but this time they distribute malicious files and steal data using already available games. . This could indicate that they are targeting young gamers who are old enough to watch the show and want to play games but are not yet familiar with cybersecurity.
How to protect yourself from malicious software and scams
To protect yourself from scams like the two above, you should first make sure that the game is actually available on the platform that the advertisement or website may suggest. A quick search of the web reveals that The Last of Us Part I was released on PC in his March, and The Last of Us Part II has yet to be announced for the platform.
From here on, download games only from official app stores like Steam, Epic Games Store, Origin, Microsoft Store, just like apps on your smartphone. Games downloaded from random websites can contain malware and other things. because it is a virus best antivirus software on your gaming PC. Likewise, you should also be wary of ads, emails, or links that promise early viewing of TV series or movies.
in him The Last of Us Review, streaming editor Henry Casey gave the film a coveted five-star rating. Fans of PlayStation games will definitely want to tune in on January 13th. Major timeline changes From video games you want to focus on.
