A new cyber attack targeting Gmail account holders could result in hackers gaining access to private email messages.
The new threat impacts anyone who uses Google Chrome as their browser of choice, so anyone with it installed on PCs or Macs should take caution.
Users are being warned to remain vigilant of scam emails that ask readers to download a fake browser extension called AF, which steals data from inboxes. The campaign hit South Korea first, before infiltrating the US and Europe, reports The Mirror.
The malware was spotted by the joint cybersecurity team from the German Federal Office for the Protection of the Constitution and the National Intelligence Service of the Republic of Korea.
Once installed, the bug then sets about hijacking accounts, giving online crooks the ability to read highly personal messages.
The culprits behind the attack, known as Kimsuky, are mainly targeting high ranking officials from diplomats to politicians and even journalists. However, anyone who downloads the AF extension can still be affected, so it's important that people remain on high alert.
It's also a timely reminder never to be tricked into installing anything onto a PC without doing plenty of research first. If you do want a new extension for your Chrome browser, then it's best to stick to official stores and check the reviews before hitting the download button.
There's also another reason why you don't want to become a victim of this attack. As well as hacking Gmail accounts, the criminals from Kimsuky are also using this bug to attack Android smartphones as well.
It appears that once the Gmail service has been compromised, the hackers can then use Google's web-to-phone synchronisation feature to install apps from a PC right onto a phone without the user's permission.
These applications come packed with FastViewer malware which can then be used to drop files onto phones, steal data and more. It's even possible for cyber thieves to snoop in on phone calls, watch keystrokes on the screen and see what the user is up to via the front-facing camera.
Although this FastViewer malware isn't a widespread attack it's still a worrying development, so it's wise to make sure you do everything possible to keep your devices safe and free from viruses.
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