'Required Video Codec Is Not Installed On Your Computer' Pop-Up Scam

Fake codec packs have been a popular trick to propagate malware for over two decades. Even though modern video players and operating systems come pre-loaded with all necessary audio and video codecs, online con artists are still abusing this strategy to deliver potentially harmful files. The latest tactic of this sort is carried out via misleading 'Required Video Codec Is Not Installed On Your Computer' pop-ups. These messages state that the user's Windows Media Player cannot play a particular file, and they need to download a codec pack to view the media. The bogus page is designed to use Windows 10's color scheme and style – probably an attempt to make it appear as a valid part of Windows.

The 'Required Video Codec Is Not Installed On Your Computer' pop-up scam, in particular, is propagating a copy of the Terdot Trojan currently, which can end up introducing additional malware to the compromised system. It is also very easy for the criminals behind the misleading site to host another payload, which could prove to be even more threatening – such as ransomware or keylogger.

One of the websites associated with the 'Required Video Codec Is Not Installed On Your Computer' pop-up scam is moviehunter.one – it is likely that the criminals are relying on fake movie streams to lure in potential victims. It is advised to stay away from pirated content and always to be wary of Web pages that ask you to download a file they deem to be important. Using a reputable anti-virus product will not only keep you safe from opening corrupted files, but it also can warn you when you stumble upon a suspicious website like Moviehunter.one and the 'Required Video Codec Is Not Installed On Your Computer' pop-up scam.