Hackers Are Using Clever Techniques To Trick Windows Users Into Opening Malicious Websites
As a savvy business owner using Microsoft Windows, you likely update your browser regularly and only visit secure websites. However, if your employees aren’t exercising the same caution, your business could be at serious risk. Hackers are now using clever techniques to trick Windows users into opening malicious websites in new and unique ways, jeopardizing your company’s data.
What Is Malware and How Does It Usually Spread?
Malware refers to software that cybercriminals use to attack company devices, including cell phones, desktops, and servers. While some attacks are designed to destroy customer trust or prevent access to critical accounts, others are aimed at stealing data, funds, or even identities.
Malware comes in many forms, including:
- Viruses and worms that replicate themselves to infect single or multiple devices.
- Adware and Trojan horses that disguise themselves as legitimate software to trick users into lowering their defenses.
Malware can spread through downloading tampered programs, clicking suspicious links, or interacting with infected websites. Since January 2023, this has become a greater concern due to a new malware campaign that Check Point Research (CPR) identified, which is specifically targeting Windows users.
Windows' New Zero-Day Flaw
In January 2023, Check Point Research revealed a new malware campaign that uses .URL files to lure Windows users into visiting compromised websites. These .URL shortcuts appear in seemingly harmless .PDF book files, but clicking on them opens an outdated version of Internet Explorer—one with zero-day vulnerabilities.
While updated versions of Internet Explorer have patches for these flaws, older versions remain vulnerable, making them ideal for phishing and other cyberattacks. Once the user is directed to a faux website, hackers can deploy malware to steal sensitive information, including credentials and financial data.
To learn more about protecting your company from malware, click here to schedule a discovery call with Lazer IT Consultants.
Microsoft’s Remediation of This Flaw
In July 2023, Microsoft addressed this malware campaign during Patch Tuesday, explaining that hackers are using clever techniques to lure Windows users into opening malicious websites. Once on these websites, exploit kits and info-stealers are used to capture sensitive data.
While this flaw is one of the biggest threats to Windows users in recent months, another vulnerability, CVE-2024-38080, allows attackers to gain Microsoft virtual machine hypervisor privileges. Microsoft has since released patches for these two flaws and over 140 others.
Protecting Your Business from Malware Attacks
Hackers are constantly finding new ways to exploit zero-day vulnerabilities in software. To reduce the risk of malware infiltrating your business’s systems, you must ensure that your browser and Windows devices are updated with the latest security patches.
Key steps to take include:
- Keeping Windows and browsers up to date with the latest patches.
- Training employees to recognize phishing attempts and suspicious file types.
- Implementing robust network security protocols, including firewalls and antivirus software.
For additional support in safeguarding your company, explore our network security services.
Conclusion
As hackers continue to evolve their techniques, businesses need to remain vigilant in protecting their systems. Windows users are particularly vulnerable to malware attacks that exploit outdated software, and failing to take action could result in data breaches or financial losses. By keeping your systems updated and training employees on cybersecurity best practices, you can reduce the risk of falling victim to these threats.
If you’re ready to enhance your network security, learn more about our project services and let us help you stay ahead of emerging cyber threats.
