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November 18, 2009

Hackers exploit release of Twilight New Moon film

Hoax interview designed to infect PCs with malware

Carrie-Ann Skinner

Hackers are exploiting the web users searching for information about the Twilight New Moon film, due to be released this week, in a bid to spread malware, says PC Tools.

According to the security firm, malicious websites that claim to feature interviews with the author of the books, Stephanie Meyer, are ranking high in a number of search engines.

If a user clicks on the malicious links, instead of seeing a video clip of Meyer they will be directed to a window informing them they are infected with malware and then encouraged to download an antivirus solution to clean their PC.

A malicious link (highlighted in red) found when searching for information on the new Twilight film

However, PC Tools has warned that the antivirus solution is fake, also known as scareware, and has been created by cybercriminals to fool web users into parting with their hard-earned cash.

Michael Greene, vice president of product strategy from PC Tools, comments: "The previous Twilight film made £1.2m in the box office on its first day of release and the book series has broken sales records at Waterstones, so it's no surprise that numerous fans will be searching the web for clips of the film and interviews with the cast. Cybercriminals will use any opportunity to take advantage of the public's enthusiasm for a major event, so it's essential that fans know how best to keep their computers and online identity safe."

Greene urged web users to be vigilant when clicking on links and to ensure their anti-virus software is up-to-date.

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See also: Scareware earns cybercriminals £850,000 a year

Free whitepaper: Phishing for victims - Truth, myth and cybercrime

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