14 DAY TRIAL // An apparently harmless looking media player called Web Player, leads unsuspecting users to a number of shady websites that advertise movie streaming services. The worst part about this scam is that it requests credit card details that could later allow the cyber-crooks to access the victims’ bank accounts.
Bitdefender experts came across the player, which comes packed with EULA and other elements designed to dupe internauts into believing that it’s legitimate.
On the other hand, a detailed analysis determined the researchers to catalogue the application as being malicious, naming it Trojan.FakePlayer.B for future references.
Once installed, a pop-up screen requests users to enter an email address and a password allegedly needed for authentication.
It’s uncertain if this part is actually a phishing expedition and if the data is stored somewhere for later use. However, after the Connection button is hit, the victim is taken to one of many websites that promote a free online movie player.
Those who are hypnotized by the advertised movie titles and continue the process are asked to provide payment details that are presumably needed to access to much desired video content.
In reality, the scam sites don’t offer any legal streaming services and the credit card details provided by the user can be later utilized by the crooks to make purchases without the accountholder’s permission.
A large number of sites are connected to this scam, which means that if security solutions providers block one of them, the rest will continue functioning uninterrupted, stealing every bit of sensitive information they can.
Motion picture fanatics and anyone who enjoys watching a good flick from time to time are advised to be on the lookout for this and other similar scams.
Unfortunately for those who have already fallen into the trap set up by the cybercriminals, the integrity of their bank accounts is in peril and they should immediately contact their financial institution and request credit monitoring services.