Hackers attempt to hijack the accounts of YouTube creators via phishing attacks

PCMag reported that YouTube creators have been targeted by hackers using phishing emails. These emails are disguised as advertising deals and contain links to download malware. On October 20, Google stated that malware was crafted to hijack prominent YouTube accounts by seizing the creators’ passwords and login information stored in browser cookies. Subsequently, the malware directs the stolen data to the hackers’ servers.

Creators are susceptible to phishing attacks especially when they link their email addresses on their channel. These phishing emails falsely claim to be represented by legitimate advertising companies and request that YouTube creators endorse their merchandise such as games and software.

Google revealed astonishing statistics whereby 15,000 user accounts and 1,000 internet domains were developed by hackers to deceive creators. Furthermore, the tech company posited that fake emails pretended to be news organisations during the global pandemic.

A hacked YouTube account may be repurposed to display cryptocurrency scams that con unsuspecting viewers into giving away Bitcoin or the account may be sold to potential buyers for up to US$4,000. Google alleged that hackers based in Russia are paid to send out phishing emails and target these YouTube creators. The tech company also advised that users turn on two-factor authentication and run anti-virus scans on attached software in emails or documents.

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