Trend Micro Warns Against Cybercriminals Capitalizing on Windows 8's Popularity

Trend Micro has detected some sites which are offering their own dubious version of free 'Windows 8 Activator' upgrade. With the adoption rate of Windows 8 increasing by more than 30% in January 2013, cybercriminals are hoping to ride on Windows 8's popularity.

This time the offer is “Windows 8 Activators”, which comes amidst the news of Microsoft’s limited offer of a discounted Windows 8 upgrade. Like other significant news these links often lead to specially crafted malicious sites that take advantage of the media hype. The links embedded in these lead to tailor-made sites that host malware or redirect and hijack your accounts and personal information, or spread through account infections.

Screenshot of site offering fake Windows 8 activator (Image source: Trend Micro)

Trend Micro recommends some safety tips for users:-

Never click on suspicious links
Bookmark reliable sites to avoid falling for cybercriminals’ traps
Spread the word – Tell others what you know so that your friends and family do not fall for cybercriminal traps
Prevention is always better than cure –Invest in an effective security solution that protects your system and data from all kinds of threats.

Source: Trend Micro Blog