Skip to main content
FDIC-insured. Backed by the full faith and credit of the U.S. Government.


Person Holding a Phone That Says "Malware"

Posted on Friday, June 7, 2024 in Privacy & Security

Scam of the Week: Malware Office Suite

“You get what you pay for,” and this week’s scam is no exception. Cybercriminals are distributing a “free” pirated version of Microsoft Office across torrenting websites. The catch is that it’s actually malware. If you download and install it, the malware can begin harvesting your personal data.

If you download the malicious Microsoft Office file, the installation process appears to be legitimate. The installer looks professional and even allows you to select the version of Microsoft Office you would like to install. However, if you run the file, malware will install on your computer. The malware is designed to avoid detection from most antivirus systems. Even if your antivirus software scans and removes it, this particular malware can re-install itself afterward. This “free” version of Microsoft may actually cost you something after all - your personal data!

Follow these tips to avoid falling victim to a malware scam: 

  • Never download software from unofficial sources. A pirated version of the software isn't an official release, and it may contain malware. 

  • If something is too good to be true, it probably is. Microsoft Office is a software that you would normally pay for, and a free version isn't likely to be legitimate. 

  • Be sure to follow your organization's instructions regarding antivirus software and data backups. Having updated software and data backups can help to protect your machine from a malware infection. 

Stop, Look, and Think. Don't be fooled. 

Article provided by:

KnowBe4 Logo

KnowBe4.com 

  1. account security
  2. ai
  3. app
  4. christmas
  5. cyberattack
  6. cybercriminal
  7. cybersecurity
  8. data leak
  9. digital
  10. email fraud
  11. facebook
  12. false information
  13. holidays
  14. malware
  15. mobile app
  16. money
  17. news
  18. phishing
  19. phone
  20. qr code
  21. ransomware
  22. red flags
  23. scam
  24. security
  25. sensitivity
  26. shopping
  27. social media
  28. tax
  29. taxes
  30. text
  31. travel
Back to Top