A vicious virus has returned to prominence on Facebook that could drain a user's bank account if the user clicks one wrong link, Mashable reported.
The virus was first discovered in 2007 and has affected millions of people since. Virus protection companies have not been able to combat it either, as it has seemingly become stronger than when it first struck.
The virus activates after a user clicks a link attached to the virus. Bogus Facebook pages, like the "Bring the N.F.L to Los Angeles" that was fished out, often entice users to click on links that will activate the virus. Then it lays undetected on your computer and, when you log into a bank website, it steals your money.
Sometimes the virus will even create a false interface meant to look like your bank's website and will ask for personal info like social security numbers and anything else with black market value.
Here are three simple methods to avoid receiving the Zeus Trojan virus.
1. If possible, avoid Windows. According to Business Insider's Kevin Smith, the virus does not work on Mac OS X or on Linux. If you have access to a Mac, use it, if not, be extra cautious about the links you click.
2. Do not click suspicious links. This goes for Mac and Windows users because this how many viruses are spread. The Zeus virus is also an email phishing virus, so if any email (usually it will say it is from someone in your contact list, when really it is not) contains a link to something strange, like "ancient stress relief techniques" and no message from the sender, it is probably a virus. Bottom line: do not open emails or click links that give you a moment's hesitation.
3. Talk to your bank about security. If you interact with your bank in person or on the phone, the virus will not be able to act even if it is in your system. Another thing you can do is ask your bank if its website has a two-step security feature. This is the best way to stop Internet intruders from accessing your funds. Lastly, ALWAYS log out of the bank's website when leaving the page and NEVER ask your computer to save the password for a quicker login.
Facebook has made its security features more and more sophisticated as it gets older and has even partnered with companies like McAfee and Symantec to help stop viruses.
Here a few easy tips to make your account safer:
* Again, do not click on suspicious links. If you receive a link from a friend (this goes for e-mail too) tell them, because their account may have been hacked.
* Enable login notifications. This will tell you when your account has been logged into, so if you know you are not logged in and you receive a notification, you can take action.
* Do not accept friend requests from people you do not know, even if you have multiple mutual friends and even if they send you a personal message.
* Report any scam you come across. Do not be afraid to click the "mark as spam" button.
* Do not download or grant permission suspicious apps.
* You may receive a one-time password by texting "otp" to 32665. This is perfect for using your account in public places.
* Visit https://Facebook.com/security and read its "Take Action" and "Threats" sections.