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A warning has been issued to Australian internet users regarding a rise in criminals gaining control of their devices through hidden viruses in email attachments and popular video games.
The Australian Federal Police have reported an increase in Remote Access Trojans (RATS), enabling third parties to spy on individuals and steal personal information.
The main culprits are computer video modifications and email attachments disguised as legitimate links.
Popular games like Runescape, Minecraft, PUBG: Battlegrounds, and ARK Survival have been targeted by criminals.
These malware infections allow access to webcams, microphones, passwords, location history, and other data stored on the device.
Acting Assistant Commissioner Chris Goldsmid likened these viruses to a plague, urging Australians to regularly update their virus protection and software.
Some viruses may go undetected by antivirus software, leaving victims unaware of malware on their devices.
This cybercrime can escalate to severe data theft and victim manipulation, with criminals using stolen data for extortion or financial crimes.
In April, an Australian man was charged for creating and selling a RAT on a hacking forum, while in June 2023, a Geelong man received a three-year good behavior bond for purchasing a virus online.
A 27-year-old Maltese national was arrested overseas in February for distributing a virus in the game Warzone, with assistance from federal police.
The use of a Remote Access Trojan in Australia carries a maximum penalty of 10 years in prison.
- AAP
Share17 minutes ago21.42 EDT
Non-citizens who commit serious crimes will be ’immediately deported’ – Dutton
Peter Dutton, the opposition leader, has promised to deport any non-citizen who commits a serious crime in Australia.
They do not deserve to stay and should be deported promptly.
Dutton criticized the Labor government for undermining confidence in Australia’s migration system by admitting individuals from war zones without proper screening.
There are millions of law-abiding people who wish to come to our country, contribute positively, and not engage in criminal activities.
This interview coincides with two years since the Coalition went into opposition and is part of Dutton’s efforts to shape the…
2024-06-08 20:51:02
Original source: www.theguardian.com