Crypto-mining tools hidden in the files has grown increasingly popular in recent years, because they offer easy access to cash. ReasonLabs noted they frequently see miners deploying in the disguise of common programs and files.

The malware baked into the Spiderman: No Way Home torrent is not listed by VirusTotal at this time, but ReasonLabs believes it has been around for quite some time, affecting numerous users. ReasonLabs believes it has also been circulating as apps like Discord or Windows Updater. This specific cryptocurrency mining malware may have been around in a number of different disguises before donning the Spiderman outfit. While most people are aware of the threats associated with unknown files, criminals are excellent at making their downloads look legitimate. This might be why so many people chose to download the 'leaked' file, identified as: spiderman_net_, when it first emerged.Īccording to ReasonLabs, however, this is far from the first-time criminals have tried to trick users by convincing them they're downloading something they want. With many viewers still unable to attend physical cinemas due to lockdown restrictions, fans of the Spiderman franchise have been keen to get their hands on the movie elsewhere. One of the easiest ways for criminals to find their victims – is with the right lure. As people spend more of their time online, both for work and entertainment, criminals are discovering new opportunities to pinpoint easy targets. There were around 714 million attempted ransomware attacks reported for 2021 – a 134% rise from 2020. Using a Mask: Tricking Users into Downloading MalwareĬybersecurity issues are on the rise in today's digital world.

The cryptocurrency mining malware discovered by ReasonLabs disguises itself as a torrent for the Spiderman: No Way Home movie, encouraging viewers around the world to download the file, and open the computer to criminals. All today's malicious actors need to do is promise their victims access to the latest movie, and they get an all-access pass to their PC. It's a chance to connect with millions of potential targets, and hack into computers all around the globe.

ReasonLabs, a leading provider of cybersecurity prevention and detection software, recently discovered a new form of malware hacking into customer computers in the guise of the latest Spiderman movie.Īs perhaps the most talked-about movie for some time, Spiderman: No Way Home represents an excellent opportunity for hackers. Peter Parker might not be a mastermind cryptocurrency criminal, but the name Spiderman is quickly becoming more associated with the mining landscape.

Free download Spider-Man: No Way Home