Automated Internet Attack Program, Blackhole Author Arrested

The alleged cyber criminal responsible for developing and maintaining the Blackhole automated attack toolkit is arrested.

The European Cybercrime Centre, on October 8th announced this monumental arrest. This automated toolkit was responsible for many of the financial attacks aimed at business and individuals.  The toolkit was sold on underground hacking forums under a subscription-based business model. It included updates for some of the latest exploits, such as those targeting known Java vulnerabilities, Adobe coding errors and Microsoft flaws.

It affected more than 36,000 websites in 218 countries. Blackhole is partially responsible for the spread of Zeus and SpyEye, two closely related banking Trojan families responsible for stealing millions of bank account holders’ information.

Luckily, prevention of these attacks is simple. The Security Experts at Orange County Computer, Inc. ® recommend taking the following tips and putting them into practice:

• Do not open any emails from unknown senders.
• Stop using Windows XP – it is a major security breach. Upgrade to at least Windows 7.
• Do not use Drop Box or other File Share Sites., it is a huge security breach.
• Do not use public WiFi – you are just asking hackers to steal from you. Use only secure Wifi that requires a password.
• Change your online passwords often (Ebay, PayPal, Online Banking, Credit Cards, etc.)
• Install an Antivirus with an Antispyware Program and keep all updates current prior to opening emails and browsing the Internet.
• Do not use the Internet without an Antivirus subscription.

If you suspect someone or something has infected your system or compromised your valuable financial data/passwords, contact Orange County Computer via telephone at 949-699-6619, via email, or visit our website for more information.  Browse safely!