Virus threat to online banking operations in United Arab Emirates

Dubai: A new computer virus stealing banking information is posing a major threat in the UAE, the Symantec has warned. Dyre targets Windows computers by taking over Google Chrome, Firefox and Internet Explorer.

Dyre has struck at more than 1,000 banks and companies around the globe. Twelve UAE banks have so far been targeted, hitting 400 customers.

“Its main purpose is to steal banking credentials, such as details used to log into your bank account — user name, password, pin number. The basic things a bank uses to verify your identity,” explained Dick O’Brien, senior information develope, Symantec, according to Khaleej Times.

The virus is mainly spread through spam e-mails, often disguised as business-related attachments. Once the attachments are opened, a downloading tool is surreptitiously installed, which then collects intelligence on a victim and attempts to disable security software, before installing Dyre itself.

“There are a number of steps you can protect yourself. One of the main ones is to use good security software and keep it up to date, because that will detect Dyre or other similar threats,” O’Brien said.

“But also exercise caution when you receive e-mails. Be careful about opening them and also be careful about opening attachments. If something doesn’t look legitimate or doesn’t look right, you’re better off leaving it.”

O’Brien also noted that the group behind Dyre is likely to be full-time, professional cyber criminals.

June 30, 2015