It seems in 2005 we have some new trends that we can expect to see, one is AdWare Videos. Recently found over at PCWorld.com; at least a dozen or so Windows Media files (.wma) contain scripts and applications allowing massive pop-ups, ads and adware. Kill the OverPeer!
Ads and adware have a new way to get on your computer--through files that appear to be music and video.
Andrew Brandt and Eric Dahl, PCWorld.com
Wednesday, December 29, 2004Think you're downloading a new song or video? Watch out--that file may be stuffed with pop-ups and adware.
PC World has learned that some Windows Media files on peer-to-peer networks such as Kazaa contain code that can spawn a string of pop-up ads and install adware. They look just like regular songs or short videos in Windows Media format, but launch ads instead of media clips.
When we ran the files, we noted over half a dozen pop-ups, some attempts to download adware onto our test PC, and an attempt to hijack our browser's home page. However, you can take steps to guard your PC against this ad invasion.
Source URL: http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,119016,00.asp
Not all files on peer-to-peer networks are genuine. Here are tips to help you dodge the fakes.
Andrew Brandt and Eric Dahl, PCWorld.com
Wednesday, December 29, 2004Worried about downloading the wrong file and messing up your PC?
For the moment, you don't have to fret much. Even though PC World found files that purported to be music but, when opened, spawned a flock of pop-up ads, audio and video adware isn't widespread. And malicious hackers haven't yet figured out how to craft files that do the same thing. But to be on the safe side, you should think a little more carefully about the files you download from peer-to-peer networks.
The easiest solution is to simply stop downloading WMA files from P-to-P services. But with legitimate, music-industry-sanctioned P-to-P services preparing to launch early next year, that may not be an option for everyone.
Source URL: http://www.pcworld.com/news/article/0,aid,119063,00.asp
