New Malware Targets Shoppers Making Purchases from Overseas Websites

(image: Korea Bizwire)

SEOUL, Sept. 5 (Korea Bizwire) — A new type of malware that targets shoppers making purchases directly from overseas websites has surfaced recently, requiring shoppers to be savvier about shopping online, especially from foreign websites.

AhnLab, Inc., a security software provider founded in 1995, revealed today that it had discovered malware that was distributed disguised as an email with a sea waybill attachment.

The distributor of the malware falsely represented itself as a well-known marine logistical company, leading many email recipients to click on the email without suspicion.

Included in the attachment was the malware “Lokibot,” a program that extracts personal details when executed by the user.

“Lokibot” collects information found in an individual’s email account, web browser, and administrative system via a remote-control command system unknowing to the user.

In order to avoid being a target of the malware, users are warned not to open attachments sent from unfamiliar email accounts.

Users should also maintain the latest version of anti-virus software and scan their computers for any compromises that may have taken place.

Park Tae-hwan, an AhnLab manager responsible for security countermeasures, said that the most recently discovered malware seemed to specifically target online shoppers who made purchases from overseas websites.

“Users must always be aware that they can be targeted at any time,” warned Park.

Kevin Lee (kevinlee@koreabizwire.com)