Hackers Exploit Mediafire.com to Spread Viruses Through Skype

Hackers are always looking for new avenues to spread malicious links and eventually their malware onto computers. One of the avenues hackers have strolled down to spread malicious links is Skype, the popular application that allows users to make voice calls, instant message and SMS message others over the Internet.

Mediafire.com is a service that offers online storage and backup over the Internet for computers and mobile devices. Mediafire.com happens to be the choice legitimate service that hackers are exploiting to send malicious links through Skype to spread viruses on compromised systems.

Basically, compromised systems randomly send users a Skype message including a mediafire.com link into an online chat with an alleged person in Skype. The person is usually not on a user's Skype contact list. Once the face conversation commences, the fake contact sends the link beginning with mediafire.com and ending with random characters, so the link looks somewhat legitimate. When clicked on, the user is redirected to download a file and execute what has been found to be called 'Skype_Worm_IM'. The file often looks to have a '.scr' extension, appearing to be virtually harmless for non-tech experts.

Cases of virus infections spreading through popular IM applications is nothing new. It is an unfortunate occurrence that frequently takes place and we must all take heed to the warnings signs.

Computer users who utilize Skype are being warned to be on the lookout for Skype messages from someone not in your contact list who is sharing a link. Specifically, the phrases below received from someone unknown in Skype may contain a malicious link.

• hahaha
• LOL
• Is this you??
• Picture of you???
• Tell me what you think of this picture
• This is the funniest picture ever!
• I cant believe I still have this picture
• Someone showed me your picture
• Your photo isn't really that great
• I love your picture!
• What you think of my new hair color?
• What do you think of my new hair?
• You look so beautiful on this picture
• You should take a look at this picture
• Take a look at my new picture please
• What you think of this picture?
• Should I upload this picture on facebook?
• Someone told me it's your picture

As always, keeping your software updated and running an anti-spyware application is your best defense against such a virus if you ever make the mistake of clicking on a link from an unknown Skype contact.