Downloading Pirated Software Is Not Only Illegal but Also Dangerous

Where do you go when you want to install a new program or a new game? Hopefully, you are relying on legitimate download websites and you are doing your research before committing to anything. Note that if you end up trusting unreliable sources, you could download freeware that conceals malware or PUPs. When it comes to freeware, there really is no reason not to use authentic and official downloaders. But what about programs and games that come with a price tag? If you do not have the money to cover the costs, you might choose to look into cheaper/free alternatives, or you might choose to take the illegal route. The web is full of software key generators for programs that are licensed, as well as free installers of pirated software. Unfortunately, millions of users across the globe choose to install games and software illegally, and that not only makes them break the law but also put their virtual security on the line.

Adware bundles are much more dangerous than before

In the past, adware bundles were known as misleading downloaders/installers that used attractive programs and deals as bait to introduce gullible and careless users to adware, a.k.a, advertising-supported software. Once installed, adware would flood the screens of these users with various ads that could promote scams and also, in some cases, malware installers. Needless to say, letting adware into a system is an awful thing, but as it turns out, things can always get worse. According to malware researchers, adware bundles have now switched to exposing careless users to the worst kind of malware. We are talking about trojans and ransomware. Another malware researcher on Twitter has revealed that password-stealing trojans are being spread using offers for software cracks and key generators.

Unfortunately, it has become much more lucrative to spread malware rather than adware, which is why we are seeing trojans and other kinds of critically dangerous threats jumping at us from all corners. Whether you are after free versions of copyrighted software, game cheats, license key generators, and other kinds of pirated pieces, know that you are at risk of facing Dreambot, Glupteba, Racoon Stealer, ShadowTechRAT, file-encryptors from the STOP Ransomware family, and other kinds of threats. Needless to say, you want to avoid them all.

Be careful with YouTube videos

As it turns out, YouTube is playing an important role in this game. According to malware researchers, trojans, ransomware, password-stealers, keyloggers, and other kinds of dangerous threats could be distributed with the help of clever YouTube scams. For example, an unreliable software distributor or malware creator can upload a video with a link in the description, and this link, allegedly, can offer a game cheat, a license number, or an installer of a file that should help you obtain pirated software for free. Well, if this link is clicked, the victim might end up executing malware without even realizing it. Of course, youtube.com is not the feeding ground for malware distribution. While attackers can exploit all social networking platforms to expose people to malware, they are most likely to stick to torrent websites and unreliable file-sharing websites. In general, if you are interested in acquiring pirated software, we suggest that you change your plans.

Pirated software can lead to irreversible security issues

It does not matter if you really really really want that new game that hasn’t come out yet or if you really really really want to save money on downloading a key generator for pirated software. What matters is that you do everything in your power to protect yourself. If you think that bad things would never happen to you, you need to think again. Even if security software is installed on your operating system, it could fail to recognize new threats, and that could lead to the successful execution of incredibly dangerous malware.

If you end up facing ransomware, all of your personal files can be corrupted, and the attackers behind the threat could push you into paying thousands of dollars in return for a decryptor that you are unlikely to get anyway. On top of that, we are now seeing ransomware that, besides encrypting files, can steal data, steal passwords, and also terrorize victims in other ways. For example, at least one infection is known to demand nude photos from victims. The only good thing about ransomware is that you know if it exists.

If you choose to download pirated software from unreliable websites, you might end up letting in silent, clandestine infections too. Do you know if a dangerous trojan concealed as software exists on your operating system? You are unlikely to know that unless you implement a legitimate malware scanner to examine your operating systems. Trojans can steal passwords by recording keystrokes and grabbing screenshots. They also can employ your microphone and the connected webcam to spy on you and, potentially, terrorize you in the future. In some cases, you might discover a strange, unfamiliar program/file that the trojan uses to conceal itself. In most cases, however, a trojan concealed as software can stay completely hidden in a random folder deep within your system, somewhere where you would not even think to check.

Malware was detected. What now?

If you have downloaded pirated software, key generators, cracks, game cheats, etc., you need to inspect your operating system using trustworthy security software. If ransomware, keyloggers, remote access tools, password-stealers, trojans concealed as software, adware, or other kinds of threats exist, you will learn about it immediately. What’s next? The first thing you need to do in any case is perform complete and full removal. Afterward, you need to move to damage control.

If your files were corrupted, you might need to use your backups to replace them. If your online banking account was hijacked, you might have to contact your bank to figure out how to protect yourself. If your social networking accounts were hijacked, you need to get them back, strengthen their protection by adding two-factor/multi-factor authentication, and also warn anyone who might be associated with your account (e.g., friends on Facebook or followers on Twitter). It might be most important of all to change passwords because malware could have stolen them. Do not bother replacing every single password you own with a good enough combination manually. Instead, install the Cyclonis Password Manager, a tool that will take care of this for you.