logo
#

Latest news with #Malwarebytes

Everyone with an iPhone or android told don't click' - it could cost you
Everyone with an iPhone or android told don't click' - it could cost you

Daily Mirror

time10 hours ago

  • Daily Mirror

Everyone with an iPhone or android told don't click' - it could cost you

Scammers are sending messages to smartphones and some are so simple they just begin with 'Hello' - but there is a way to avoid being caught out Fraudsters are constantly seeking fresh ways to trick us, and it seems the latest threat is emerging through ordinary text messages. Research from Malwarebytes' security experts shows a dramatic rise in fake chats being sent to smartphones. ‌ Some simply start with a basic 'Hello', whilst others suggest the cybercriminal already knows you. "Hi, I noticed your contact information is saved in my contacts, can you remind me where we talked before," reads one message spotted by Malwarebytes. ‌ The aim behind these latest messages is to build a connection and gather personal information, which can then be used to steal data, reports the Express. "As soon as you reply, the scammer will initiate a friendly conversation. ‌ Their end goal will be to gain your trust and develop the relationship into a costly romance or investment scam," Malwarebytes explained. Whilst it might seem unbelievable, these cons prove surprisingly successful. ‌ The infamous "Hi mum" trick - which poses as a family member in trouble - has led to hundreds of thousands of pounds being handed over to digital crooks across the UK alone. It's now crucial that anyone owning an iPhone or Android device stays alert, avoids replying, and steers clear of clicking any links sent by unknown contacts. Malwarebytes explained: "Responding confirms your number is active. It flags you as someone who reads texts and might engage and the scammer may sell or share your number." If you receive a suspicious message, here's some simple advice to follow:.

iPhone Users Are More Likely To Fall For Scams Than Android Users
iPhone Users Are More Likely To Fall For Scams Than Android Users

Newsweek

time24-07-2025

  • Business
  • Newsweek

iPhone Users Are More Likely To Fall For Scams Than Android Users

Based on facts, either observed and verified firsthand by the reporter, or reported and verified from knowledgeable sources. Newsweek AI is in beta. Translations may contain inaccuracies—please refer to the original content. iPhone users are more likely to fall victim to online scams and less likely to practice safe online habits compared to Android users, according to new research from cybersecurity firm Malwarebytes. The survey, released Thursday, surveyed 1,300 adults across the U.S, U.K, Austria, Germany, and Switzerland and highlighted a consistent pattern of riskier online behavior among iPhone owners. Why it Matters This survey results challenge the long-standing perception that Apple devices are inherently safer, revealing a worrying trend for millions of iPhone users in the U.S. and globally. As cyber threats and scams become increasingly sophisticated, both consumers and businesses must recognize that device choice does not guarantee immunity from online risks. Model and influencer Sonia Lyson with an iPhone, and white wired ear pod headphones from Apple in Berlin, Germany. Model and influencer Sonia Lyson with an iPhone, and white wired ear pod headphones from Apple in Berlin, to Know The Malwarebytes survey revealed that 53 percent of iPhone users have fallen victim to an online scam, compared to 48 percent of Android users. The also study found iPhone owners are more likely to trust their device's built-in security, potentially leading to less cautious behavior. "iPhone continues to dominate market share in the U.S., and with that popularity comes more targeting," Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek. "Scams are everywhere—from fake USPS or TollTag texts to those suspicious 'Hey' messages. They all want one thing: for you to respond." Risk-taking behavior was also higher among iPhone users: 47 percent reported buying from unknown sources for the best price, compared to 40 percent of Android users. Additionally, 41 percent of iPhone users admitted to sending a direct message to a seller or company on social media seeking discounts, in contrast to 33 percent of Android users. Only 21 percent of iPhone users said they use mobile security software, compared to 29 percent of Android users. Similarly, 35 percent of iPhone owners reported using unique passwords for each online account, while 41 percent of Android users did the same. "The iPhone is the most widely used smartphone worldwide, and it's naive to think individuals who commit cybercrimes wouldn't work constantly to find workarounds to take advantage of owners," Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek. "Unless notified directly through Apple, don't click on links or respond to messages claiming to be from the company. And when in doubt, reach out to the company directly, not to the number that sent you a link." Researchers pointed out that iPhone users may be lulled into a false sense of security by the device's reputation. Roughly 55 percent of iPhone users expressed trust in their phone's security to keep them safe, which was slightly higher than the 50 percent rate among Android users. This trust could discourage adoption of additional security tools or best practices. "Too many iPhone users rely on the device's reputation for security without taking basic steps to protect themselves, leaving them vulnerable to today's realistic scams and silent threats like infostealers," Michael Sherwood, VP of product at Malwarebytes, said in a statement. "We can no longer rest on our laurels no matter how we choose to browse, bank or chat. Cybercriminals know that mobile devices are a fruitful gateway to scams and threats. We need to be aware and skeptical of everything from text messages and search results to email attachments and links." On its website, Apple encourages users to never share personal information or passwords and to consider using two-factor verification for added safety. "If you're suspicious about an unexpected message, call, or request for personal information, such as your email address, phone number, password, security code, or money, it's safer to presume that it's a scam—contact that company directly if you need to," Apple said on its website. Google encourages Android users to get the latest Android updates for your device, remove untrusted apps and perform a security check. Google also says on its help center site: "To help remove harmful software from your device, you may want to reset your Android device to factory settings. To learn more about how to remove harmful software from your device, contact your device manufacturer." What People Are Saying Kevin Thompson, the CEO of 9i Capital Group and the host of the 9innings podcast, told Newsweek: "These scams often succeed because they prey on urgency and trust, especially when someone's expecting a package. A single response or download can let malware slip through the cracks. And let's be honest, a lot of iPhone users tend to skew older, making them more susceptible to these tactics." Alex Beene, a financial literacy instructor for the University of Tennessee at Martin, told Newsweek: "For decades, Apple had the edge on competitors in the digital virus space, as their devices gained a good reputation for being less susceptible to malware. This same reputation, unfortunately, has led some to believe devices like iPhone are safer from these attacks and as a result, some users are more likely to click on links they receive assuming Apple has thoroughly protected their device." What Happens Next The Malwarebytes survey points to an urgent need for enhanced online safety education and awareness, particularly among iPhone users. Thompson said all phone users should not respond to texts from unknown senders. "If you're expecting a package, go straight to the carrier's website, don't click the link," Thompson said. "The same goes for emails. Always navigate directly to the site, not through a message. One click can be the difference between secure and compromised."

Amazon Prime customers warned over clever new email scam
Amazon Prime customers warned over clever new email scam

Yahoo

time24-07-2025

  • Business
  • Yahoo

Amazon Prime customers warned over clever new email scam

Around the world, 200 million people rely on Amazon Prime for faster deliveries, and they are the latest target for cybercriminals. In a message sent to Prime subscribers this month, Amazon has warned that scammers are targeting Prime members with fake emails supposedly from Amazon, claiming that their Prime subscription fee is about to change. An Amazon spokesperson said, 'We are diligently working to help educate consumers to avoid impersonation scams, ensure consumers know it's us, and ensure scammers are held accountable. 'Amazon regularly educates our hundreds of millions of customers about scam prevention best practices to keep them safe from scams.' What do the Amazon scam emails say? The emails suggest that the customer's Amazon Prime subscription will soon auto-renew at a higher price, and offer a way to cancel the subscription. Some of the emails include other personal information in an effort to look more convincing, with the information obtained from other sources such as online leaks, according to cybersecurity company Malwarebytes. The emails offer a 'cancel subscription' button which takes users to a fake Amazon page that then harvests their email and password. Criminals are then able to log in to Amazon accounts or log in to other accounts that share the same email and password combination. What should users do? If you receive an email from Amazon and you use Gmail, Yahoo or other popular email providers, a smile icon next to the address (where a picture would normally show) will show it really comes from Amazon. If that icon is not present, you should be suspicious. Malwarebytes advises, 'If you receive an email like this, don't click on any links. Not sure if a message is from Amazon or not? You can check by going to the Message Centre under Your Account. Legitimate messages from Amazon will appear there. Malwarebytes advises users to report the scam every time, even if they did not fall for it, to keep other users safe. Malwarebytes says, 'Set up two-step verification for your Amazon account. This puts an extra barrier between you and the scammers if they do manage to get hold of your login details. 'Lastly, if you've fallen for this or a similar scam, change your Amazon password and anywhere else you use that password. Also, make sure to monitor your card statements for any unfamiliar charges, and contact your bank immediately if you see anything suspicious.' How can you stay safe from impersonation scams? Amazon offers in-depth tips on how to stay safe on Amazon impersonation scams, with tips here. Amazon warns to be suspicious of any emails with a sense of urgency (ie you have to do something within a certain time span). Any email which urges users to buy Amazon gift cards is also suspicious (Amazon gift cards are a 'currency' used by cybercriminals). Amazon says, 'Our obsession with customers motivates our commitment to ensuring scammers are not using our brand to take advantage of people who trust us. We encourage consumers to report suspected scams to us at so that we can protect their accounts and refer bad actors to law enforcement to help keep consumers safe.'

Amazon warns all 220 million Prime members of scammer attacks
Amazon warns all 220 million Prime members of scammer attacks

New York Post

time23-07-2025

  • Business
  • New York Post

Amazon warns all 220 million Prime members of scammer attacks

Prime customers are being warned about phishers sending fake Amazon correspondence. In these Prime membership scams, scammers are impersonating Amazon to target users and steal personal information such as social security numbers, bank information or Amazon account details. In 2024, Amazon took down more than 55,000 phishing websites and 12,000 phone numbers that were used as part of impersonation schemes — and they've noticed an uptick. Scammers are impersonating Amazon to target users and steal personal information. tashatuvango – Amazon said in an email earlier this month that there had been an increase in reports about fake emails, and over two-thirds of scams claimed to be related to order or account issues. Reports often included calls, texts or emails from scammers claiming that the user made a purchase that they didn't actually make and asking for account information to 'verify' the order. 'Scammers who attempt to impersonate Amazon put consumers at risk,' Dharmesh Mehta, Amazon's vice president of Selling Partner Services, said in the notice. 'Although these scams take place outside our store, we will continue to invest in protecting consumers and educating the public on how to avoid scams.' Malwarebytes also issued a warning noting that scammers are sending fake emails claiming a user's Amazon Prime subscription will automatically renew at an unexpected price. Amazon said in an email earlier this month that there had been an increase in reports about scams. Gorodenkoff – These emails may include personal information they obtained from other sources to appear legitimate, and they might also include a 'cancel subscription' button that leads to a fake Amazon login page. If a user logs in using the fake page, the scammer will have their details and can use it to login to the actual Amazon site — as well as any other online account that has the same username and password. The fake login page might also ask for payment information and other sensitive information, which would ultimately go to the scammer. Amazon is also hoping to educate consumers on how to avoid scams. To start, Amazon adopted a secure email capability for users using Gmail, Yahoo! and other common email providers. These users will see the Amazon smile logo icon in their inbox. They also noted that it's important to verify purchases on Amazon, trust the app and website, know that they will never ask for payment over the phone or email, be wary of false urgency; they will never ask you to purchase a gift card, and if you're unsure, contact Amazon directly.

Everyone using Chrome must check their web browser and restart it immediately
Everyone using Chrome must check their web browser and restart it immediately

Daily Mirror

time23-07-2025

  • Daily Mirror

Everyone using Chrome must check their web browser and restart it immediately

Chrome users are being urged to check they have the latest update installed to keep their Chrome browser safe. If Chrome is your favoured browser then you should head to the settings, check which version you are running and restart this popular software without delay. This new advice has been issued after Google released an update which fixes a total of 6 vulnerabilities within its Chrome browser. If that wasn't bad enough, it's also been confirmed that one of the bugs has been given the dreaded zero-day rating. That basically means cyber crooks are already aware of the flaw and are actively exploiting it. Things have now been fixed but it's vital that make sure you are running the latest version - 138.0.7204.157/.158 for Windows, Mac and 138.0.7204.157 for Linux. "Google has released an update for its Chrome browser to patch six security vulnerabilities, including one zero-day," the security experts at Malwarebytes explained. "This update is crucial since it addresses one actively exploited vulnerability, which can be abused when the user visits a malicious website. It doesn't require any further user interaction, which means the user doesn't need to click on anything in order for their system to be compromised." To check your browser, simply click on Chrome in the menu bar and select About Chrome. If you see any updates that are pending your should restart the software without delay. This latest alert comes after users were also urged to update their browsers early this month due to another zero-day bug being found. These aren't the only concerns, as security experts also confirmed that millions of Chrome users had also been targeted by fake extensions that could leave them open to attack. Those affected have been urged to fully reset their Chrome software and clear all browsing data. Google says that it has since removed all the affected extensions, so no new users should be infected.

DOWNLOAD THE APP

Get Started Now: Download the App

Ready to dive into a world of global content with local flavor? Download Daily8 app today from your preferred app store and start exploring.
app-storeplay-store