AfterDawn: Tech news
AfterDawn > News > Facebook hit by password stealing virus

Facebook hit by password stealing virus

Written by Andre Yoskowitz @ 18 Mar 2010 2:07 User comments (33)

Facebook hit by password stealing virus Popular anti-virus company McAfee is reporting today that Facebook has become the target of a virus that aims to steal passwords and other sensitive information from the social network's 400 million users.
The virus comes via spam emails that state that users Facebook accounts have had their passwords reset. You are then urged to click on an attachment to "obtain new login credentials." Once opened, the attachment unleashes a group of trojans, including a password stealing software.

"This threat is potentially very dangerous considering that there are over 350 million Facebook users who could fall for this scam," adds McAfee.

For those who are scared of the virus, the email is titled "Facebook Password Reset Confirmation! Customer Support." Delete it immediately.

<New PlayStation Move ad mocks Wii, Natal >EA follows Ubisoft, will sell titles with 'always on' DRM
Previous Next  

33 user comments

118.3.2010 03:59
Dragon3000
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

I had one of those emails last night. I did open the email out of interest but it was obvious that it was a scam. I did however reply to the email with, 'shut up'.

I hope that by replying to the email I haven't unleashed those pesky trojans.

What a rubbish world we live in.

218.3.2010 04:04
Deadrum33
Send private message to this user
Senior Member

They should make a trojan that specifically hits those Farmville idiots...

318.3.2010 04:48
Josipher
Send private message to this user
Member

Originally posted by Deadrum33:
 They should make a trojan that specifically hits those Farmville idiots...
amen brother

418.3.2010 06:33
iamgq
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

DAMN!!!

This message has been edited since its posting. Latest edit was made on 19 Mar 2010 @ 9:17

518.3.2010 10:01
pinny121
Send private message to this user
Newbie

I also had the email

it did not go to my spam folder, so I opened it and saw Facebook were asking me to run an executable .exe file on my computer.

Must be a fishing trip (by not a hacker a tosser) I thought and quickly totally deleted it no trash bin for this file bye bye.

618.3.2010 10:10
Tom
Unverified new user

One of my work colleges got this email and opened it.

I managed to remove this virus took me a day mind.

DO NOT OPEN IT!!!!!!!!!

718.3.2010 10:33
dfw24
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind

818.3.2010 10:58
NeoandGeo
Send private message to this user
Member

Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Great choice for those that are computer illiterate. :D

918.3.2010 11:58
21Q
Send private message to this user
Senior Member

My mother actually got this. I was concerned when she thought it was real, but at least she had sense enough to ask me what was up with it. I don't know why people can't use common sense for these things. If you didn't change it, then you didn't change it.

1018.3.2010 13:08
DJ Blur
Unverified new user

Are people really this dumb? They deserve to be "hacked" when they just hand over their passwords.

1118.3.2010 13:16
Amak
Send private message to this user
Member

Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Don't worry, your superiority complex will bite you in the butt when a Mac virus is widespread.

1218.3.2010 13:31
pinny121
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by Amak:
Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Don't worry, your superiority complex will bite you in the butt when a Mac virus is widespread.
Mac worship is a virus of the stupidioshous strain ;)

1318.3.2010 13:43
Xeres
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

Originally posted by dfw24:
Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
You have my sympathy.

1418.3.2010 14:39
gregd548
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by NeoandGeo:
Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Great choice for those that are computer illiterate. :D
An even better choice for those that ARE computer Literate

1518.3.2010 14:45
gregd548
Send private message to this user
Newbie

After 30+ years of all the headaches DOS/Windows created for me, I switched to a Mac a year ago and now wish I'd done it many years ago. Mac hasn't crashed or hung once, does everything as I want it done, and don't have to spend hours working ON the thing - I can just work with it. SOOOO much better - and I'm VERY computer literate.

1618.3.2010 16:59
LM2008
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Aww we need a Farmville virus or anything that can kill that stupid game once for all.

This message has been edited since its posting. Latest edit was made on 18 Mar 2010 @ 5:00

1718.3.2010 17:30
DVDBack23
Send private message to this user
Staff Member

Originally posted by Amak:
Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Don't worry, your superiority complex will bite you in the butt when a Mac virus is widespread.
LOL, it's true, I'm not ragging on Macs by any means, but the reason there are no Mac viruses are because it doesn't make sense for virus/malware to take to time to write for them. Mac desktops have 8 percent of the market, and Mac laptops have 13 percent. I'd much rather write something when I know I can infect 92/87 percent of the population instead.

1818.3.2010 22:13
jposey
Send private message to this user
Newbie

OH DAMN, I have 2 Multi Core Intel CPU Media Center, Loaded Laptops with tons of software for what you paid for 1 over priced Intel with Mac OS on it. Just like your Mac, I have never had a virus. Just have to be smarter than what you work on. No one writes Virus for Mac OS, their not immune. It's because there are so few Mac's, why bother. Oh Damn.

1919.3.2010 05:12
iamgq
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

lol... you guys are funny.

2019.3.2010 05:56
Deadrum33
Send private message to this user
Senior Member

Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Originally posted by iamgq:
 lol... you guys are funny.
WIKI Definition of troll=In Internet slang, a troll is someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, chat room or blog, with the primary intent of provoking other users into an emotional response or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion.

iamgq wins the troll of the week award for starting an idiotic apple vs. Windows flame war in a thread about facebook!

2119.3.2010 09:17
ren97
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by Deadrum33:
 They should make a trojan that specifically hits those Farmville idiots...

2219.3.2010 09:21
ren97
Send private message to this user
Newbie

This password stealing virus, isn't a virus it's an email password scam and it's been going around about as long as paypal password stealing scam emails. They don't specifically ask for you password, they just say you need to log in.

2319.3.2010 19:41
oblieo
Send private message to this user
Newbie

I AM ALSO PRESENTLY RECEIVING AT LEAST ONE EVERYDAY DAY IN MY 'SPAM' MAIL,AS I DONT USE 'FACEBOOK'I DID'NT BOTHER TO OPEN THEM AND DELETED THEM-THANK GOD.I HAVE NOW SENT OUT A WARNING TO ALL MY CONTACTS AND SUGGEST PEOPLE SHOULD DO THE SAME.

2419.3.2010 20:57
empulse
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by oblieo:
 I AM ALSO PRESENTLY RECEIVING AT LEAST ONE EVERYDAY DAY IN MY 'SPAM' MAIL,AS I DONT USE 'FACEBOOK'I DID'NT BOTHER TO OPEN THEM AND DELETED THEM-THANK GOD.I HAVE NOW SENT OUT A WARNING TO ALL MY CONTACTS AND SUGGEST PEOPLE SHOULD DO THE SAME.
You should warn them about the ALL CAPS VIRUS TOO.

2519.3.2010 21:16
iamgq
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

Originally posted by Deadrum33:
Originally posted by iamgq:
 DAMN!!! --- oh wait, i have a mac, nevermind
Originally posted by iamgq:
 lol... you guys are funny.
WIKI Definition of troll=In Internet slang, a troll is someone who posts inflammatory, extraneous, or off-topic messages in an online community, such as an online discussion forum, chat room or blog, with the primary intent of provoking other users into an emotional response or of otherwise disrupting normal on-topic discussion.

iamgq wins the troll of the week award for starting an idiotic apple vs. Windows flame war in a thread about facebook!
deadrum33, it was not my intention. all, i apologize. im going back to modify the original comment.

2620.3.2010 03:44
bmlshane
Send private message to this user
Junior Member

Originally posted by Dragon3000:
 I had one of those emails last night. I did open the email out of interest but it was obvious that it was a scam. I did however reply to the email with, 'shut up'.

I hope that by replying to the email I haven't unleashed those pesky trojans.

What a rubbish world we live in.
By opening and replying, you may have picked up the Virus. Do a scan of your system,, make sure you have a good anti-virus and a good antispyware, I have just done one and deleted tracking cookies, and some adware,and I haven't been on facebook for a couple of days, just going to favourite sites you can pick up undesirable malware, viruses and other nasties.

2720.3.2010 06:31
oblieo
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by empulse:
Originally posted by oblieo:
 I AM ALSO PRESENTLY RECEIVING AT LEAST ONE EVERYDAY DAY IN MY 'SPAM' MAIL,AS I DONT USE 'FACEBOOK'I DID'NT BOTHER TO OPEN THEM AND DELETED THEM-THANK GOD.I HAVE NOW SENT OUT A WARNING TO ALL MY CONTACTS AND SUGGEST PEOPLE SHOULD DO THE SAME.
You should warn them about the ALL CAPS VIRUS TOO.
LOL-just making my point LOUD and CLEAR sorry if i jolted your eye sight but i am happy i have given you something to moan about!

2820.3.2010 15:14
manolet
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Oh God! A Facebook Trojan!
And I don't have a Mac.
I never had a Mac!
What should I do?

( And no, I don't mean the Mac sandwich, silly!)

2920.3.2010 18:08
ChappyTTV
Send private message to this user
Member

Originally posted by bmlshane:
Originally posted by Dragon3000:
 I had one of those emails last night. I did open the email out of interest but it was obvious that it was a scam. I did however reply to the email with, 'shut up'.

I hope that by replying to the email I haven't unleashed those pesky trojans.

What a rubbish world we live in.
By opening and replying, you may have picked up the Virus. Do a scan of your system,, make sure you have a good anti-virus and a good antispyware, I have just done one and deleted tracking cookies, and some adware,and I haven't been on facebook for a couple of days, just going to favourite sites you can pick up undesirable malware, viruses and other nasties.
While it's possible, it's not probable since there's an executable attachment that launches the trojan installer.

Still, good advice to do a complete system scan, since the user did reply to something like this, it's a sign of someone a bit less security savvy.

@Dragon3000 - replying to these things can be just about as bad as clicking the exe file. They now have a confirmed email addy, and your IP info as well since all that info is contained in your email header data. Never a good idea to reply to spammers or any suspicious email bud, even if you're just telling them to F-Off.

Dave
This message has been edited since its posting. Latest edit was made on 20 Mar 2010 @ 6:08

3021.3.2010 17:01
manolet
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by ChappyTTV:
Originally posted by bmlshane:
Originally posted by Dragon3000:
 I had one of those emails last night. I did open the email out of interest but it was obvious that it was a scam. I did however reply to the email with, 'shut up'.

I hope that by replying to the email I haven't unleashed those pesky trojans.

What a rubbish world we live in.
By opening and replying, you may have picked up the Virus. Do a scan of your system,, make sure you have a good anti-virus and a good antispyware, I have just done one and deleted tracking cookies, and some adware,and I haven't been on facebook for a couple of days, just going to favourite sites you can pick up undesirable malware, viruses and other nasties.
While it's possible, it's not probable since there's an executable attachment that launches the trojan installer.

Still, good advice to do a complete system scan, since the user did reply to something like this, it's a sign of someone a bit less security savvy.

@Dragon3000 - replying to these things can be just about as bad as clicking the exe file. They now have a confirmed email addy, and your IP info as well since all that info is contained in your email header data. Never a good idea to reply to spammers or any suspicious email bud, even if you're just telling them to F-Off.

Dave
This is very true. Don't reply to any email which is not warranted or suspicious.

Similarly, I do not go to websites which ask for info and password from me. A good antivirus program is required, but discretion is still a must.

I have my own website with public html's. And this still does not carry my real name. It also does not require logins to view.

I use the least traveled pathways, less to see,less fuss, but safer.


3123.3.2010 11:01
meve
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Mac and PC are just like two religions. It will be very difficult if not impossible for Mac users to change to PC and vice versa. But the facts are that Macs are easier to use and less prone to get a virus. As others pointed out there are so few Macs worldwide that no "respectable" virus writer will want to waste their "valuable" time on it. In fact, if and when viruses become widespread in Mac, the Mac owners should feel proud that Macs sales are picking up and attention is being given to them. And, yes, they are so much easier to operate. That's probably because there are so few options and features available to set and so few applications on the market for them. Still I think Macs are the way best option for the computer not-to-savvy.

This message has been edited since its posting. Latest edit was made on 23 Mar 2010 @ 11:02

3223.3.2010 21:58
slvrbrd
Send private message to this user
Newbie

Originally posted by Dragon3000:
 I had one of those emails last night. I did open the email out of interest but it was obvious that it was a scam. I did however reply to the email with, 'shut up'.

I hope that by replying to the email I haven't unleashed those pesky trojans.

What a rubbish world we live in.
I think you have been infepqwifgF; WE><SDVJNLKQI;KEUW9W;C,M

338.10.2010 18:44
ChappyTTV
Send private message to this user
Member

Originally posted by meve:
 Mac and PC are just like two religions. It will be very difficult if not impossible for Mac users to change to PC and vice versa. But the facts are that Macs are easier to use and less prone to get a virus. As others pointed out there are so few Macs worldwide that no "respectable" virus writer will want to waste their "valuable" time on it. In fact, if and when viruses become widespread in Mac, the Mac owners should feel proud that Macs sales are picking up and attention is being given to them. And, yes, they are so much easier to operate. That's probably because there are so few options and features available to set and so few applications on the market for them. Still I think Macs are the way best option for the computer not-to-savvy.
Very true meve, it is a big $$$ making venture for malware writers now so it is a waste to go after just a few Macs rather than a few 1000 PC's. Back when I did spare time malware testing/cracking, the writers were mostly amateurs who were decent coders, but nowadays they're professional coders making big bucks and making very complex stuff. Macs will have their day for sure and many of those who swear that Macs are "immune" (like my sister...) will learn the hard way, just like PC users had too.
Later

Comments have been disabled for this article.

Latest news

Massive Android 0-day vulnerability found - here's what you should do immediately Massive Android 0-day vulnerability found - here's what you should do immediately (08 Nov 2025 5:35)
A very serious security flaw has been found in the Android operating system, allowing malicious code to be executed on a phone or tablet.
Review: Roborock Saros Z70 - robot vacuum with an arm Review: Roborock Saros Z70 - robot vacuum with an arm (20 Oct 2025 6:13)
In out in-depth review of Roborock Saros Z70 we put the robot vacuum through a 3 month test period, where we observed its work in normal home. The sci-fi -like arm of Z70 was a little bit disappointing, due its limited functionality.
End of an era: TiVo stops making DVRs End of an era: TiVo stops making DVRs (14 Oct 2025 4:12)
TiVo, once synonumous with digital TV recording in the United States and in select other countries, has stopped making DVR devices as of October, 2025.
Strava takes Garmin to court Strava takes Garmin to court (02 Oct 2025 2:30)
The world's perhaps best-known sports app developer Strava has filed a lawsuit against American sports watch manufacturer Garmin, accusing the company of patent infringement.
1 user comment
Ruuvi Air sensor keeps track of indoor air quality with ease Ruuvi Air sensor keeps track of indoor air quality with ease (25 Sep 2025 1:56)
The latest product from Finland's Ruuvi Innovations is the Ruuvi Air, a device that brings clear and simple indoor air quality monitoring to homes - with no monthly fees.

Reviews

Review: Roborock Saros Z70 - robot vacuum with an arm Review: Roborock Saros Z70 - robot vacuum with an arm
In out in-depth review of Roborock Saros Z70 we put the robot vacuum through a 3 month test period, where we observed its work in normal home. The sci-fi -like arm of Z70 was a little bit disappointing, due its limited functionality.
Roborock Saros 10 review - Great, but not perfect Roborock Saros 10 review - Great, but not perfect
We tested Roborock Saros 10 robot vacuum for more than two months in order to see whether it is really worth its hefty price tag. The mopping, self-emptying Saros 10 was mostly great, even perfect. But its object avoidance was bit disappointing.
1 user comment
Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra review - obstacle avoidance doesn't work as it should, otherwise almost perfect robot vacuum Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra review - obstacle avoidance doesn't work as it should, otherwise almost perfect robot vacuum
We put the Roborock S8 MaxV Ultra through a very, very long review process. The $1800 mopping robot vacuum is almost perfect, but its obstacle avoidance was surprisingly bad, considering the price - and compared to its competitors.

Guides

What happens if you don't update Android? What happens if you don't update Android?
Sometimes it can be tempting to avoid updating to a new Android version. What happens if you decide to delay major updates to the OS?
GUIDE: Wi-Fi speeds are slow? Here are some tips GUIDE: Wi-Fi speeds are slow? Here are some tips
Having problems with Wi-Fi speed and stability at home? Here are some tips to follow to alleviate the issues.
1 user comment
Guide: Is Your Wi-Fi Sluggish or Slow? Here's How to Fix Guide: Is Your Wi-Fi Sluggish or Slow? Here's How to Fix
Do you have problems with you Wi-Fi? Slow connection or is it cutting off constantly? This guide aims to remedy these problems.
1 user comment
Does your phone rattle? Here's why it happens Does your phone rattle? Here's why it happens
When you shake your phone and hear a light rattle, clatter, or jingle, it's likely not broken. The culprit is probably the optical image stabilization (OIS) system in your phone's camera, meaning everything is functioning as it should.
2 user comments
Guide: Phone battery drains quickly - how to fix (iPhone / Android) Guide: Phone battery drains quickly - how to fix (iPhone / Android)
In this guide, we go through the most typical reasons for rapid battery drain with phones, and look at potential reasons or solutions.

News archive

Sections:

Follow us:

© 1999-2025 AfterDawn Oy. All rights reserved
Back to Top ⇧
AfterDawn is powered by Powered by UpCloud