According to a report by Trend Micro researchers Ryan Maglaque, Jay Nebre, and Allixon Kristoffer Francisco, published on 10 January 2025, attackers are increasingly exploiting platforms like YouTube and social media to distribute fake installers.
Image: Pexels/Pixabay
These malicious campaigns rely on trusted file hosting services to conceal their activities, making it harder for users and cybersecurity systems to detect and block them.
How the Fake Installer Scam Works
Screengrab/Youtube
Malicious actors lure victims by pretending to offer legitimate software installers. They often share links to these fake files in video descriptions, comments, or private messages on platforms such as YouTube. Many users searching for cracked or free software fall prey to these deceptive tactics.
Upon clicking these links, users are redirected to download sites such as Mediafire or Mega.nz. These trusted hosting services lend an air of legitimacy, making the malicious files harder to identify. Frequently, the downloads are password-protected and encoded, further hindering analysis by security software.
What Happens After Download
Image: Pexels/Brett Sayles
Once executed, the fake installers introduce malware into the victim’s device. The primary threat comes from info stealers that extract sensitive browser data, including login credentials and personal information.
Key Tactics Used by Attackers
Use of Trusted Hosting Services: Platforms like Mediafire and Mega.nz are used to obscure the origin of the malware.
Password Protection and Encryption: These methods complicate sandbox analysis, delaying detection by cybersecurity tools.
Shortened Links: Services such as Bitly or X (Twitter) mask the true nature of the links, making them appear benign.
Search Engine Optimization (SEO) Abuse: Specific keywords generate search results for malicious installers, targeting users looking for free or cracked software.
How to Stay Protected
Image: Pexels/Karolina Grabowska
Avoid downloading software from unofficial or unverified sources.
Be wary of links shared in video descriptions, comments, or private messages on social media.
Use comprehensive antivirus software to scan downloads and block malicious files.
Verify the credibility of content creators before clicking on links they provide.
This growing threat emphasizes the need for caution when downloading software online. To learn more about how these scams operate and protect your devices, visit the full report by Trend Micro researchers here.
