Stay away from the Fireball Malware – Update your Antivirus

In its latest advisory, the Indian Computer Emergency Response Team (CERT-In) has warned Internet users of the Fireball malware. This post explains what this virus is all about and how you can stay away from it.

What is the Fireball Malware?
Fireball is a browser-hijacker that attacks the victim’s web browser. It is designed to perform the following activities:

1. Generate fraudulent clicks on advertisements to make money for the attacker
2. Make changes to the default web browser and its settings
3. Download and execute other malware on the infected system
4. Spy on the victim and steal their private information

How does Fireball malware spread?
Fireball is being distributed with freeware programs. So, when a user installs these freeware, they may also install fireball without even knowing about it.

What should be done?
If you think you may have installed free software in the past and noticed unusual changes in your web browser or computer, then follow these steps:

1. Run an antivirus scan on your computer
2. Uninstall programs which you don’t recognize. Go to Control Panel > Programs
3. Uninstall browser add-ons (plug-ins, extensions) which you don’t recognize or don’t remember installing
4. Reset your Internet browsers

How Quick Heal helps?
Quick Heal antivirus successfully detects and blocks the Fireball malware. It detects it as:

• Pua.Elex
• AdWare.ELEX
• PUP.Elex

If your PC is not protected, you may install the trial version of Quick Heal and run its Anti-malware scan. However, please ensure you update the antivirus before running the scan.

Download Quick Heal – 30 day Free Trial

Tips to avoid such malware

1. Avoid installing free software, especially those that do not have verified publishers
2. Do not click on pop-up ads when you visit less popular and unknown websites, particularly those that offer free software download
3. Do not click on links or download attachments in unknown or unexpected emails.
4. Keep your antivirus up-to-date
5. Apply all recommended security updates on your computer. Keep Automatic Updates ON

If this post is helpful, share this post with your friends and family.

Source:
https://www.cyberswachhtakendra.gov.in/alerts/fireball.html
https://gadgets.ndtv.com/internet/news/fireball-malware-can-steal-user-data-warns-cert-in-1709362

Rajiv Singha