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The modified version of Zeus controls infected computers from a central server, forcing them to post likes for specific users. The modified Zeus virus is the first piece of malicious software uncovered to date that has been used to post false 'likes' on a social network, according to experts who track cyber crime.įraudsters most commonly manipulate 'likes' using automated software programs. 'We work hard to limit spam on our service and prohibit the creation of accounts through unauthorized or automated means,' Kirkland said. He encouraged users to report suspicious activity through links on Facebook sites and apps. Instagram, which has about 130 million active users, will have the same security measures that Facebook uses, said spokesman Michael Kirkland. 'It is the bandwagon effect.'įacebook, which has nearly 1.2 billion users, said it is in the process of beefing up security on Instagram, which it bought last year for $1 billion. 'People perceive importance on what is trending,' said Victor Pan, a senior data analyst with WordStream, which advises companies on online marketing. It may seem odd that fake social media accounts would be worth more than real credit card numbers, but online marketing experts say some people are willing to spend heavily to make a splash on the Internet, seeking buzz for its own sake or for a business purpose, such as making a new product seem popular.

According to RSA, 1,000 Instagram 'followers' can be bought for $15 and 1,000 Instagram 'likes' go for $30, whereas 1,000 credit card numbers cost as little as $6. These fake 'likes' are sold in batches of 1,000 on Internet hacker forums, where cyber criminals also flog credit card numbers and other information stolen from PCs.

Thepiratebay is forcing flash player virus