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Showing posts with label fake alerts. Show all posts

FileFix Attack Uses Fake Meta Suspensions to Spread StealC Malware

 

A new cyber threat known as the FileFix attack is gaining traction, using deceptive tactics to trick users into downloading malware. According to Acronis, which first identified the campaign, hackers are sending fake Meta account suspension notices to lure victims into installing the StealC infostealer. Reported by Bleeping Computer, the attack relies on social engineering techniques that exploit urgency and fear to convince targets to act quickly without suspicion. 

The StealC malware is designed to extract sensitive information from multiple sources, including cloud-stored credentials, browser cookies, authentication tokens, messaging platforms, cryptocurrency wallets, VPNs, and gaming accounts. It can also capture desktop screenshots. Victims are directed to a fake Meta support webpage available in multiple languages, warning them of imminent account suspension. The page urges users to review an “incident report,” which is disguised as a PowerShell command. Once executed, the command installs StealC on the victim’s device. 

To execute the attack, users are instructed to copy a path that appears legitimate but contains hidden malicious code and subtle formatting tricks, such as extra spaces, making it harder to detect. Unlike traditional ClickFix attacks, which use the Windows Run dialog box, FileFix leverages the Windows File Explorer address bar to execute malicious commands. This method, attributed to a researcher known as mr.fox, makes the attack harder for casual users to recognize. 

Acronis has emphasized the importance of user awareness and training, particularly educating people on the risks of copying commands or paths from suspicious websites into system interfaces. Recognizing common phishing red flags—such as urgent language, unexpected warnings, and suspicious links—remains critical. Security experts recommend that users verify account issues by directly visiting official websites rather than following embedded links in unsolicited emails. 

Additional protective measures include enabling two-factor authentication (2FA), which provides an extra security layer even if login credentials are stolen, and ensuring that devices are protected with up-to-date antivirus solutions. Advanced features such as VPNs and hardened browsers can also reduce exposure to such threats. 

Cybersecurity researchers warn that both FileFix and its predecessor ClickFix are likely to remain popular among attackers until awareness becomes widespread. As these techniques evolve, sharing knowledge within organizations and communities is seen as a key defense. At the same time, maintaining strong cyber hygiene and securing personal devices are essential to reduce the risk of falling victim to these increasingly sophisticated phishing campaigns.

Meta Mirage” Phishing Campaign Poses Global Cybersecurity Threat to Businesses

 

A sophisticated phishing campaign named Meta Mirage is targeting companies using Meta’s Business Suite, according to a new report by cybersecurity experts at CTM360. This global threat is specifically engineered to compromise high-value accounts—including those running paid ads and managing brand profiles.

Researchers discovered that the attackers craft convincing fake communications impersonating official Meta messages, deceiving users into revealing sensitive login information such as passwords and one-time passcodes (OTP).

The scale of the campaign is substantial. Over 14,000 malicious URLs were detected, and alarmingly, nearly 78% of these were not flagged or blocked by browsers when the report was released.

What makes Meta Mirage particularly deceptive is the use of reputable cloud hosting services—like GitHub, Firebase, and Vercel—to host counterfeit login pages. “This mirrors Microsoft’s recent findings on how trusted platforms are being exploited to breach Kubernetes environments,” the researchers noted, highlighting a broader trend in cloud abuse.

Victims receive realistic alerts through email and direct messages. These notifications often mention policy violations, account restrictions, or verification requests, crafted to appear urgent and official. This strategy is similar to the recent Google Sites phishing wave, which used seemingly authentic web pages to mislead users.

CTM360 identified two primary techniques being used:
  • Credential Theft: Victims unknowingly submit passwords and OTPs to lookalike websites. Fake error prompts are displayed to make them re-enter their information, ensuring attackers get accurate credentials.
  • Cookie Theft: Attackers extract browser cookies, allowing persistent access to compromised accounts—even without login credentials.
Compromised business accounts are then weaponized for malicious ad campaigns. “It’s a playbook straight from campaigns like PlayPraetor, where hijacked social media profiles were used to spread fraudulent ads,” the report noted.

The phishing operation is systematic. Attackers begin with non-threatening messages, then escalate the tone over time—moving from mild policy reminders to aggressive warnings about permanent account deletion. This psychological pressure prompts users to respond quickly without verifying the source.

CTM360 advises businesses to:
  • Manage social media accounts only from official or secure devices
  • Use business-specific email addresses
  • Activate Two-Factor Authentication (2FA)
  • Periodically audit security settings and login history
  • Train team members to identify and report suspicious activity
This alarming phishing scheme highlights the need for constant vigilance, cybersecurity hygiene, and proactive measures to secure digital business assets.