Watch out for this one, the BlackShades Remote Access Tool, or “RAT” is a dirty RAT.
The creator has been caught and tried for distribution of malicious software, but he already sold it to several thousand users in more than 100 countries.
For a measly $40 it is enabling the hacker to remotely take over the computers of others.
This malware lets hackers steal personal information,
intercept keystrokes and GET THIS:
It lets them hijack webcams to secretly record video of computer users.
That’s right, with this malware they can turn on your camera and watch and even record your every move. Is that frightening or what? It happened to Miss Teen USA 2013 and 150 other women, and that’s just by one hacker.
And if that is not enough, like Cryptowall, BlackShades can be used to encrypt your files and hold them hostage. Watch this video to learn more:
From FBI.gov:
Could Your Computer Be Infected by Blackshades?
Here’s a list of possible indicators that your computer may be infected with Blackshades or similar remote access tool malware:
- Mouse cursor moves erratically with no input from user;
- Web camera light (if equipped) unexpectedly turns on when web camera is not in use;
- Monitor turns off while in use;
- Usernames and passwords for online accounts have been compromised;
- Unauthorized logins to bank accounts or unauthorized money transfers;
- Text-based chat window appears on your computer’s desktop unexpectedly;
From Wikipedia : According to US officials, over 500,000 computer systems have been infected worldwide with the software.
BLACKSHADES IS NOT STOPPED BY ANTIVIRUS.
From AZcentral.com we learn that Blackshades uses a special procedure that changes its appearance and is able to avoid detection by traditional anti-virus programs.
But Malwarebytes will stop it. From Malwarebytes.org: Malwarebytes Anti-Malware definitions scan for unique features at a deeper level than antivirus vendors. It detects the malware as it is being executed on your computer and prevents it from going any further.
If you have Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Pro installed, The RAT infection is even stopped from ever getting on your computer in the firstplace. Upgrade to Malwarebytes Anti-Malware Pro and get the best protection you can get against this dirty RAT.
At least install the free version so that you can scan and detect after the fact if it is on your computer. But do understand that the free version is an “after the fact cleaner”. It doesn’t stop it from entering your computer, it only cleans it off when you manually run the program because you thought something suspicious was happening.
Whichever you choose,
Antivirus is not enough anymore
It’s a jungle out there on the Internet.