Beware; dangerous new malware 'Joao' hits gamers worldwide

Gambling is an addiction but for cyber criminals, information technology is a lucrative business.

IT security researchers at ESET have discovered a new malware targeting gamers around the world. Dubbed "Joao" by researchers; the malware exists in one-third party websites offering catty setups for Aeria games.

The malware works in such a way that one time executed it force out install former venomous codes along a targeted device. Furthermore, Joao takes reward of "Massively multiplayer online use-playacting games (MMORPGs)," a platform for use-playing video games and massively multiplayer online games where a heroic number of gamers get together to interact.

Beware; dangerous new malware hits gamers worldwide — Screenshot of one of the third company sites hosting malicious game files for Aeria games (Paradigm: ESET)

The attackers behind Joao have developed the malware in such a way that when a victim executes the game launcher, it silently launches itself in the background and sends gimmick information to the attackers including its OS, name and what privileges a user has on that twist. At the same time, the game runs for the user without whatsoever to-do or gestural of despiteful activity.

Founded on the twist's depth psychology Joao decides which component should be installed on the system. According to ESET researchers, they found components with the ability to conduct distributed abnegation-of-table service (DDoS) attacks, backdoor, and spying on a targeted user.

Currently, Joao is targeting users in Argentina, Brazil, United Mexican States, Peru, Indonesia, Thailand, and the Philippines. However, It is a matter of time before information technology starts spreading to other countries since Aeria games are promulgated in North America and Europe as well.

To check if your computer is pestiferous with Joao malware, ESET researchers have suggested searching for "mskdbe.dll" file. Just in case the research result shows a file with this name information technology means you are a victim. Withal, attackers can also rename the file to something else. Therefore, make a point not to download unnecessary apps or games connected your computers.

Also, make in for to keep your operating system and opposed-virus software updated. As for the targeted users, do non download Aeria games from third-political party websites. Aeria has a multiethnic media presence connected Twitter and Facebook; information technology is highly wise to report the malicious gritty files to the developers.

At the meter of publishing this clause, third-party sites were still combat-ready yet ESET has familiar the developers about the issue, and it is expected that the company bequeath take off some actions shortly.

I am a UK-based cybersecurity journalist with a passion for covering the latest happenings in cyber security and tech world. I am also into gaming, reading and fact-finding fourth estate