According to a recent study by security solutions provider, McAfee,
cybercriminals are now using superhero searches to steal personal data.
McAfee did a recent study based on superhero searches on the web that
resulted in bad links, viruses, malware, as well as sites laden with
malicious software. Based on the study the company has released its
'2013 Most Toxic Superheroes list'.
Aquaman was found to be the most toxic
site with more than 18.6 percent chances resulted in being directed to
an infected site. Mr. Fantastic was the second most vulnerable superhero
with 18.22 percent of the people landing on websites vulnerable to cybercrimes.
The top five infected superhero searches
included the Hulk on third with 17.30 percent, Wonder Woman fourth with
16.77 percent and Daredevil was fifth 16.70 percent.
The study stated, "Hackers are most
successful when they can attract a large number of victims. One way to
target big crowds online is to track current events everything from
celebrity meltdowns and natural disasters to holidays and popular music
and now, superheroes."
The study revealed that hackers are
using the popularity of fictional characters such as Aquaman, Superman,
Iron Man, etc., to send malware to computers. The study used 'McAfee
Site Advisor' site ratings that indicate sites which are risky to search
for celebrity names on the Web and calculate the overall risk
percentage. McAfee stated that users should be careful in downloading
files and videos from free sites, as these were more prone to malware.
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