Hackers are exploiting the Covid-19 pandemic to launch attack campaigns.
The Ministry of Public Security has warned that hackers have spread malware via emails with attached Word files such as “Chi Thi cua Thu tuong nguyen xuan phuc.lnk” to steal data.
Several hacker groups have taken advantage of this situation to launch targeted cyberattacks against agencies and organizations around the world, including Vietnam, according to a March 19 announcement from the Ministry of Public Security.
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The malicious file attributes have been detected. Image:Ministry of Public Security |
According to the Cyber Security and High-Tech Crime Prevention Department, hackers have spread malware via emails with attached Word files titled "Chi Thi cua Thu tuong nguyen xuan phuc.lnk" disguised as directives from the Prime Minister regarding the Covid-19 pandemic.
The file is in the form of a shortcut (an icon containing the quickest path to a particular folder on the home screen) with the extension ".lnk" disguised as a text file icon to deceive users.
If the user downloads the attached file and opens it on their computer (this malware only works on Windows operating systems), the malware will be activated, installed on the computer, connect to the control server to download other malicious code and receive control commands from the hacker, and simultaneously open the text file to deceive the user.
Once hackers gain control of the server, they can execute various commands, such as stealing data and computer information, and using it to further spread the malware to other computers.
The Ministry of Public Security advises Internet users not to access strange links, and not to download or open files from unknown sources. If you have already opened an attached file, you should disconnect from the Internet and contact the administrator for assistance.
