Hackers Are Targeting The New Harry Potter Release

It has been identified that cybercriminals are continuing to target global events, major news stories and even movie releases such JK Rowling's, "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince". Fans are advised to wait until its release in cinemas in mid July (global) or at least download and purchase movies from trusted, legitimate sources.

Cybercriminals are pushing "blackhat" search engine optimisation tactics to target the most popular file sharing and P2P networks, including digg.com, blogspot.com and others, pursuing those interested in upcoming movie releases and in particular taking advantage of the sizeable Harry Potter fan base wanting to download the movie in advance of its screening.

First, a user will most likely come across optimised, illegitimate links within the blogosphere. Fans are baited with the text like 'Watch "Harry Potter and the Half-Blood Prince" online free'. Concurrently, comment posts are filled with related keywords to attract more search engines.

This link redirects to a blogspot post that contains more images from the movie itself, convincing the fan that the movie is only one click away. Yet clicking on any one of these links on the blog post redirects fans to the illegitimate video offer.

It is here that fans are prompted to download and install the additional "streamviewer" to view a sneak peek of the film. The streamviewer then proceeds to install malware onto the users' computer.

Be aware that this "streamviewer" tactic is predicted to be used over P2P networks and other file sharing networks as a way of capitalising on major events, news stories or movie releases.

Disclaimer: This Threat Update has been prepared solely for informational purposes. To the extent permitted by law, PC Tools has no liability or responsibility to you whatsoever for any damage or loss caused to you or your computer system as a result of relying on this update

"Harry Potter" and "Harry Potter and the Half Blood Prince" are registered trade marks of Warner Bros. Entertainment Inc. in Australia and/or other countries.