Cyber security researchers found a new type of malware spreading across the world via the Facebook Messenger app. This malicious bot is using the many computers it has infected to mine cryptocurrency for its unscrupulous developers at the expense of users.
Also read: Starbucks Customer Has His Laptop Hijacked for Cryptocurrency Mining
First observed in South Korea, Digmine has already been found in Azerbaijan, Ukraine, Vietnam, Philippines, Thailand, and Venezuela. The bot is spreading very fast, using hijacked systems to infect more computers like a virus, and is therefore expected to have reach other countries where it previously remained hidden. While the researchers do not mention it, the fact of where it was first found suggests its most likely origin is North Korea.
Facebook Messenger to Google Chrome
In addition, if the user’s Facebook account is set to log in automatically, Digmine will hijack Messenger to spread the the file to all of the account holder’s friends. The use of Facebook is currently restricted to spreading the malware, but “it wouldn’t be implausible for attackers to hijack the Facebook account itself down the line,” the researchers explain.
The researchers shared their findings with Facebook which removed many of the links to Digmine from its messenger app. The company stated that: “We maintain a number of automated systems to help stop harmful links and files from appearing on Facebook and in Messenger. If we suspect your computer is infected with malware, we will provide you with a free anti-virus scan from our trusted partners.”
Has your computer ever been hijacked for crypto mining? Let us know in the comments section below.
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The post New Cryptocurrency Mining Bot Is Infesting Facebook Messenger appeared first on Bitcoin News.
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