PC Solution

I just want to inform you about the security threats from the social networking websites such as Facebook and Myspace. You are inviting spy wares to your computer when you log on to Facebook and Myspace websites.

Possible chance for Koobface Virus infection.

Users visiting social networking sites are infecting computers with viruses (or they are subjecting their computers to attempted infections). Facebook and MySpace are known as breeding grounds for Koobface (technically classified as a “worm”). Security is a reason for businesses, libraries and schools to block or limit access to social media web pages.

Koobface thrives in social networks because users think they can trust their friends. The victim believes a trusted friend has left on her “Wall” a link to a video. His/Her guard is down, user clicks the link and then follows Koobface’s diabolical instructions to download a software update. The worm infects the victim’s computer with Mal-ware that seeks to control the computer and steal personal information such as Email account passwords, internet banking passwords, credit card information etc...

In addition to Facebook and Myspace, Koobface is reported to have infected other social networks, such as Bebo, Friendster, MyYearbook, Classmates.com and Blackplanet. Experts predict more virus attacks through social web sites.

Although Koobface is not the first virus to spread through Facebook, it is the one that is reputed to have inflicted the most harm.

One strategy for employers is selective blocking, where only certain suspect sites are blocked, with a screen that reminds employees they are responsible for getting their work done.

Best examples for infection from my 6 day experience with Facebook. I started using Facebook just 6 days before. :)

1. Today I tried a game YoVille in Facebook and I got the message "Adobe flash player 9.0 not installed in the computer" even though I am running with Flash 10.0 the latest. I got a link to download the same. Since I know about the security threats I ignored the message and run a deep scan of computer.

2. Another example for Spy-ware in the Facebook site is 'Change your images to cartoons' or 'Cartoon yourself' link. You may click on the link and you may get a software and which needs to install the tool bar in your browser to continue the process. You may try those if you are very confident in detecting and removing the infections.

Click here to see the Sample Pop up image

So please don't trust the links and friend requests in the Facebook or other Social Networking websites blindly even though it's a well known Social Networking website.