by DB Kooper

Created on: December 11, 2008   Last Updated: December 18, 2008

Users of Facebook need to be aware of a virus called Koobface. Users are sent messages such as "You look awsome in this new movie", or a similar phrase and a link to a video site. When the victim clicks on the video an error message appears stating the latest version of Flash Player is needed and a link to download it. When it is clicked instead of Flash Player they get Koobface Virus.

The downloaded file,"tinyproxy.exe", waits for the next reboot of the computer and loads a program called Security Accounts Manager. Koobface then hijacks searches done on MSN, Google, etc. to other obscure search sites. The virus can also sit in the background and install other malware at a later time. What is particularly sinister about Koobface is that it can gather credit card info through keystrokes or "cookies" stored in your browser.

Computer security experts recommend never opening unexpected attachments in emails even from those you know as viruses like Koobface have been spread this way in the past. Social networking websites are just the latest vehicle for these potentially dangerous programs. If you do a search on Google,MSN,or Yahoo and end up at some search site you have never heard of then your machine probably has been infected.

This malicious code made the rounds at Myspace.com during the late summer but was eventually thwarted by updated security measures at that site. Facebook has posted instructions on their site at http://www.facebook.com/security to remove the virus.

Parents should educate their children that use social networking sites like Facebook and MySpace to be aware of potential threats in seemingly innocent messages sent from other users. Many of these "other" users they do not know anyway and simply click Yes for friend invites. Never open attachments without a virus scan of the file whether it be a picture, music, or a video file. Always have a good anti-virus program running while online.

With over 120 million users Facebook takes these virus threats very seriously and recommends users to reset their passwords and visit one of the online virus scanning sites listed on Facebook's security page.

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