{"id":35628,"date":"2014-05-23T08:49:52","date_gmt":"2014-05-23T15:49:52","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/blogs.mcafee.com\/?p=35628"},"modified":"2025-08-18T00:38:54","modified_gmt":"2025-08-18T07:38:54","slug":"blackshades-malware","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.mcafee.com\/blogs\/internet-security\/blackshades-malware\/","title":{"rendered":"Strike a Pose: Blackshades Malware Spies Through Your Webcam"},"content":{"rendered":"

In the old days, one simply had to draw their blinds to avoid peeping toms from spying on their private business. Now, it seems that even with the shades drawn, one must also shutter their webcam. Earlier this week, the FBI initiated a crackdown leading to the arrest of nearly 100 users of a program called Blackshades malware<\/a>. This program allows hackers to remotely access the computers of their victims, enabling them to steal files, log passwords, and even turn on microphones and webcams unnoticed. What\u2019s more? This spying software could be purchased online for as little as $40 U.S.D.<\/p>\n

Blackshades malware<\/a> is referred to as a remote access tool (RAT), meaning it allows the hacker to gain full access to your machine as if he were sitting right in front of it. The technology behind this threat is similar to that used by the IT department at your office. When Joe IT Guy needs to access your work computer to install updates, fix an issue with your settings, or remotely control your machine for a variety of other reasons, he can\u2014with advanced warning and mutual understanding that he has the right to do so. Perpetrators of Blackshades malware aren\u2019t quite as courteous.<\/p>\n

Prior to the FBI crackdown this week, anyone with an Internet connection could purchase the Blackshades software, and they didn\u2019t need to be a skilled hacker to use it, either. As security blogger Brian Krebs put it, \u201cBlackshades was a tool created and marketed principally for buyers who wouldn\u2019t know how to hack their way out of a paper bag.\u201d The ease of use (and ease of purchase) associated with Blackshades malware illustrates the \u201chacking as a service\u201d phenomenon, where anyone with the financial means necessary can become a cybercriminal. The software even came with tools known as \u201cspreaders\u201d which helped these novice cybercriminals distribute malicious links via social media, in an effort to infect more computers. As with most other malware attacks, Blackshades relies on you visiting an infected website or downloading an infected file in order to install a hacker\u2019s malicious software on your computer.<\/p>\n

The prepackaged malware also came with tools to help cybercriminals extract money from their victims, otherwise known as ransomware<\/a>. Ransomware works by allowing the hacker to lock or encrypt files (sometimes even locking you out of your device completely), and then demand money in exchange for allowing you to regain access.<\/p>\n

Protect Yourself From Peeping Toms<\/h2>\n

Blackshades malware is a multidimensional, robust software program with a relatively puny price tag. And just because the FBI has cracked down on its users, doesn\u2019t mean it\u2019s disappeared from the Web completely. In fact, this strain of malware has been around for years. Here are some steps you can take to protect yourself from virtual peeping toms:<\/p>\n