A cyber scam named ‘Ghost Network’ has been exposed on YouTube, which was installing malware into users' systems through fake tutorial videos. A report by Check Point Research revealed that hackers were stealing passwords and login details by providing deceptive links in these videos. Experts have advised people to be cautious of such links.
YouTube Ghost Network Scam: Cybersecurity company Check Point Research recently uncovered a large malware network operating on YouTube. This network spread malware to people's systems with the help of fake tutorial videos and hijacked channels. According to the report, this campaign enticed users through thousands of videos to download files from Google Drive or Dropbox, after which passwords and personal data were stolen from their systems.
How Did the Ghost Network Operate?
According to the report, hackers uploaded videos on YouTube that offered software tutorials or downloads of cracked versions. These videos provided links to services like Google Drive or Dropbox, and clicking on them would install malware onto the users' systems. This malware silently stole passwords, cookies, and login details present in the system. In many cases, this network used hijacked channels to make the videos appear legitimate and gain people's trust.
Trust Was Built Through Fake Comments
To make this entire scam more convincing, hackers arranged for fake comments on the videos. These comments often included passwords to open the files, making viewers believe that other people were also downloading these files. If one channel was deleted, hackers would immediately create another, ensuring the network remained continuously active.
How to Protect Yourself?
Cyber experts have warned people to stay away from any unknown links or videos enticing them with free software downloads. Such links are often filled with viruses and Trojans that can harm the system.
According to experts, any software should always be downloaded from its official website or a trusted source. Furthermore, it is essential to regularly update antivirus software to promptly detect any suspicious activity.
