25 July 2009
With the popularity of social networking platforms such as Twitter on the rise, cyber criminals have found an easy target among unsuspecting users. BitDefender, the leading provider of innovative anti-malware solutions, offers tips on how Twitter users can avoid falling prey to some of the most common tricks regularly employed by hackers.
One of the biggest security problems facing Twitter as it relates to the spread of spam and malware are the many link-shortening services utilized for hyperlink posting. Users are limited to 140 characters per tweet; these URL-shortening services allow tweeters to post a longer link under such tight character limitations. Hackers use these link-shortening services to disguise malicious links. Some infections could be easily prevented by allowing users to see the real URL before clicking on it.
"Another big problem is the fact that search engines - especially Google - index Twitter profiles. This allows malicious pages that are built and marketed with good social engineering tactics to end up high in the rankings," said Catalin Cosoi, BitDefender senior antispam researcher. "Additionally, because Twitter messages are so short lived, users could unknowingly send spam messages without having the opportunity to notice that someone else is using their account."
Some of the common types of Twitter spam include:
Fortunately, Twitter users can protect themselves from falling into spam traps by following five tips:
"By following these simple tips, users of social networking sites like Twitter can protect themselves from spammers and other cyber criminals," added Cosoi.
For more information on how to protect yourself from Twitter and other social networking sites, please download our "BitDefender Offers Twitter Spam Protection Tips" podcast or visit the BitDefender website at www.bitdefender.com.
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