Facebook has expanded its use of MarkMonitor’s AntiFraud Solutions to cover malware attacks, after it was revealed on Wednesday that users of the social networking site were the victims of another phishing scam.
Facebook’s users were sent an email claiming to be from the site, but redirected users to FBaction.net where they were asked to enter their username and password. Their details were then stolen by the fake website.
Facebook was already using MarkMonitor’s technology to protect users from potential phishing attacks but has now extended that to cover malware as well.
Facebook has often found itself the target of malware attacks due to its strong brand name and number of users. The impact of malware on a user’s PC can range from deleting important files to capturing personal information such as usernames, passwords and other login information that can be used for identity theft.
Ryan McGeehan, threat analyst at Facebook, said: “Our deep commitment to the safety of our users requires a strong proactive security strategy, best-of-breed technology and active engagement with industry leaders. MarkMonitor demonstrated that it understood the complexity of the phishing issue we were facing so it was a natural next step for us to bolster our own security systems with their antimalware solution.”
“The meteoric success of Facebook makes it a natural target for malware attacks that seek to capitalise on their trusted and recognisable brand,” said Frederick Felman, chief marketing officer of MarkMonitor. “Our experience protecting Fortune 500 companies, as well as our close day-to-day interaction with Facebook’s own dedicated security team, allows us to expertly address Facebook’s concerns about malware and phishing, and to help protect their platform and their users from ongoing attacks.”
