Original URL: http://www.channelregister.co.uk/2007/11/12/google_pack_fake_codec_ruse/
Fake smut codec ruse used to punt Google Pack
Malware loaded on kosher tool
Posted in Software & Security, 12th November 2007 14:01 GMT
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Disguising Trojan horse malware as video codecs has became a favourite trick for hackers. The ruse allows malware authors to bait their enticement with the promise of free porno clips or the like.
Last week, the approach was used by a rogue affiliate to offer Google Pack. The site has since been pulled. Anti-spyware firm Sunbelt speculates [1] that hackers might have attempted the trick because it's starting to pay better to push legitimate applications rather than malware.
Google Pack comes bundled with several useful applications - such as Firefox, Skype, Adobe Reader, and anti-malware tools - that make setting up a new PC a great deal easier. For some, however, such as Steve "chair crusher" Ballmer, Google Pack might be viewed as the worst sort of malware. ®