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Be wary of fake eBay tool bar, consumers warned

Security researchers have issued a warning urging internet users to be wary of a fake eBay toolbar, it has been revealed.

If installed, the fake bar could leave consumers' computers compromised and exposed to online threats by granting access to hackers, reports Web User.

Di Tian of McAfee said: "Upon execution, it displays the eBay toolbar EULA (end-user license agreement) and the installation interface. And this program does indeed install the eBay toolbar."

However, after installation, the toolbar automatically accesses the eBay site and creates a new account without the computer owner's knowledge.

Cyber crooks can then use the secret account name and password to remotely access compromised computers, the researchers said.

Internet users are now being urged to only download toolbars from trusted sources and ensure they have up-to-date anti virus programs, which can help identify the online threat.

According to the Center for Democracy and Technology and the Center for American Progress, spam, scams and other internet consumer abuses are on the rise and are now a major concern.

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