Another dangerous hack is taking over browsers via Microsoft’s PowerShell programming. The malware is called ChromeLoader, and it’s the latest “malvertising” scheme that uses online advertising to attack your device.
While you may be used to dealing with ads, these ones could be much more dangerous than leading you to purchase items you don’t need.
Read on to learn about this scary new hack and how you can protect yourself.
ChromeLoader malware hack
How ChromeLoader gets on your device
Hackers are using QR codes to trick users into downloading a pirated video game or movie, sometimes via Twitter. However, the QR code actually leads to ChromeLoader’s download site, which is how the harmful software gets downloaded without you realizing it.
While the known methods have been via movies, video games, and Twitter thus far, QR codes, in general, pose massive threats so always be sure you know what you’re scanning.
How to tell if you’ve been hacked by ChromeLoader
On Windows computers, this malware presents itself as ISO files that appear in pirated versions of film, TV or video games. On Macs, the malware will appear in DMG files that a user would download. Be sure not to open these files!
The quickest way you’ll know if this malware has been installed on your computer is if you start noticing unusual search results showing up. The point of “malvertising” is for advertisements to trick you into allowing malware on your device. ChromeLoader will appear as a browser extension in your Chrome Browser and redirect the browser windows you have open towards pages that look like search results or advertisements that you wouldn’t have opened. Be sure to not click any of these fake ads or search results.
How to protect your device from ChromeLoader
Be sure to never try and watch movies, shows, or play games on websites you don’t recognize. If you’re being advertised a movie or expensive video game for free, there’s a higher chance you’ll be scammed instead of getting to see the latest hit out of Hollywood.
Always keep your operating systems and devices up to date. Updating your software makes it harder for hackers to get through.
But the only way to protect against malware including ChomeLoader is to install antivirus software. ChromeLoader has been researched for the past few months by cyberattack security companies so most antivirus programs are up to date on protecting against it.
As discussed in our Best Antivirus Security Software and Apps to Protect You 2022, our #1 antivirus software pick for Macs, Windows, iPhones, and Android devices is TotalAV (only $19 for your first year (80% off). Their product is full of features to keep you safe from malware and protect you when browsing the internet including ransomware protection, real-time antivirus protection, elimination of viruses and malware, a tool to free up your computer’s space, plus more.