Malwarebytes released new research revealing the alarming prevalence and financial impact of romance scams, also known as confidence fraud, dating or pig butchering scams. According to the survey, more than 66% of respondents have been targeted by romance scams with 10% of victims losing more than $10,000 and a shocking 3% parting with $100,000 or more. With 94% of those that lost money unable to recover it, the results highlight the urgent need for increased awareness and protective measures.

“Romance and dating scams are run by sophisticated cybercriminals who know what they’re doing. They conduct research, follow a playbook, and last year alone, these scams raked in over $650 million,” said David Ruiz, Senior Privacy Advocate, Malwarebytes. “Consumers need to be vigilant—stop and think before sending money, buying gift cards, or investing in cryptocurrency schemes from people they meet online. The more we can remove the stigma surrounding victims and provide education and resources, the faster we can minimize the devastating effects of these scams.”

Key Findings

Romance scams commonly target individuals on social media and online dating platforms to build trust over weeks and months. Individuals believe they are in a relationship and are tricked into sending money, personal and financial information, or items of value to the perpetrator or to launder money or items to assist the perpetrator. These types of scams have risen in prevalence over the past few years, driven by the loneliness epidemic and proliferation of digital platforms.

• Shifting targets: The demographics of romance scams remain largely the same, with the majority of targets over the age of 55 (74%) and male (56%). But younger demographics shouldn’t be overlooked—11% of victims were between the ages of 18 and 44, and 40% of targets were female.
• The long game: 26% of victims were engaged with the scammer for an extended period, with 12% communicating for several months and 5% entering relationships lasting a year or longer. These findings underscore the ongoing need for user education and heightened awareness.
• Stigma and shame: The survey revealed 40% of respondents never told anyone about their experience and only 11% took the step of reporting the scam to law enforcement or nonprofit organizations. Only 4% of victims sought help from a therapist or support group after their ordeal.
• Social media entry: 38% of scammers reached their victims via social media, followed by 31% via online dating profiles, 16% via email, and 11% via text. The rise of these entry points reflects how romance scammers are exploiting our increasingly digital lives.

How to Avoid Falling Prey to Romance Scams

• Keep personal information private: Limit the personal and financial information you share online, especially with new or unverified contacts. Use tools such as the Malwarebytes Personal Data Remover to minimize the amount of data accessible through search engine results, spam lists, and people search sites. This online personal data scanner will allow you to find out what sites are selling your information and get options on removing your details.
• Verify identities and sources: Exercise caution with unsolicited contacts, especially via social media, email or text message. Scammers often contact people “out of the blue.”
• Consult with a third party: If an investment opportunity seems promising, consult with a financial advisor or investment professional who can provide an objective opinion. Run any big financial requests from an online acquaintance by a trusted friend or family member for a gut check.
• Report suspicious activities: If you encounter something suspicious, report it to the appropriate authorities—local law enforcement or the FBI via its Internet Crime Complaint Center. Your action could prevent others from falling victim.

To read the blog, “Romance scams costlier than ever: 10 percent of victims lose $10,000 or more” and full survey results, visit the website here.

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Malwarebytes Unveils Personal Data Remover to Enhance User Privacy

Malwarebytes Adds Support for ARM-Based Chips

Research Methodology:

Malwarebytes conducted a pulse survey of its newsletter readers between August 5 and 15, 2024, via the Alchemer Survey platform. In total, 850 people across the globe responded.

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In today’s digital world, data brokers have nearly 1,500 data points for every consumer, ranging from addresses and phone numbers to birthdays, social media profiles, and voter registration. The process of identifying and opting out of these data sellers can be time-consuming and complex, often taking hundreds of hours. With 79% of people expressing deep concern about online privacy and security risks, the launch of Malwarebytes Personal Data Remover addresses a critical need for enhanced privacy protection.

“Online privacy is a fundamental human right,” said Marcin Kleczynski, Founder and CEO, Malwarebytes. “At Malwarebytes, we believe that what you do online is your business, and you should have control over your personal data. Our new Personal Data Remover empowers users to take back their privacy by making it easier than ever to remove their information from data brokers and stay protected.”

Key Features of Personal Data Remover

Malwarebytes Personal Data Remover scans a network of data broker databases and people search sites, assisting users in removing their personal details, and offering ongoing monitoring to maintain their online privacy, automating up to 318 hours(¹⁾ of work a consumer would have to undertake themselves.

Key features include:

• Instant personalized reporting: Personal Data Remover quickly reveals hidden threats specific to each user, such as personal information that could lead to stalking, unwanted spam, or identity theft.
• Actionable Guidance: Whether users opt for the free or paid version, they can take immediate action to remove their personal information from public view, reducing their exposure to risk. For subscribers, Malwarebytes will help remove all identified data on their behalf. Free users receive an exposure report and self-serve instructions on how to opt out of each of the data brokers and data sellers themselves.
• Automatic Removal: Data Brokers are relentless, with the average number of users appearing 2-3 times per year on the same sites.(²⁾ With a subscription, Personal Data Remover provides automatic removals of personal data from broker databases.
• Integrated Protection: This new product offers a holistic approach to security and privacy through the Malwarebytes full suite of consumer solutions to prevent and respond to online threats and dangers.

The consumer product is available in the U.S. as both a free scan and paid standalone service, underscoring Malwarebytes’ vision of reimaging security to protect devices and identity, no matter where users are, how they work and play, or the size of their wallet. A Personal Data Remover subscription is included along with device security, VPN, and identity theft protection for all existing and new Ultimate customers at no additional cost.

For additional details about the Malwarebytes Personal Data Remover solution, visit the website here.

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Malwarebytes Adds Support for ARM-Based Chips

Liquid Web Partners with Malwarebytes to Enhance Hosting Security

1. Hours are estimated based on internal historical data on the average time it takes to search, remove, and monitor re-exposure.
2. Average based on internal data of the average number of times the same profile data reappears on the same data brokers scanned.

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ARM-based PC shipments are forecasted to have 25% market share by 2027, yet not all software supports these cutting-edge devices. ThreatDown solutions will help organizations stay ahead of the threat landscape and offer protection for all ARM-powered devices.

“As ARM architecture continues to gain traction across a broad range of devices—from personal computers to cloud servers—ensuring robust security measures for these systems is crucial,” said Bob Shaker, VP Cybersecurity Product and Services, Malwarebytes. “While there may be no known exploits or zero-days against ARM architecture today, we’re ready for the threats that will come tomorrow. Our customers will have the peace of mind to secure their next generation of hardware from the ever-evolving threat landscape.”

“Artificial intelligence is the future, and that AI future will soon run not only in the cloud but also on endpoint devices,” said Frank Dickson, Group Vice President, Security & Trust, IDC. “AI processors will leverage both ARM and x86 instruction sets, and the resulting AI devices will require sophisticated protection regardless of the architecture.”

Growth Opportunity for the Channel

This support allows ThreatDown solution customers and partners to fully leverage the improved power and battery life of Windows ARM devices while maintaining robust cybersecurity defenses.

“As ARM-powered devices gain in popularity, the channel will be able to grow the account size of each of their customers to protect more devices with endpoint security meaning more revenue, more profits, and more options for security support,” said Brian Thomas, SVP of Global Channels, Malwarebytes. “Support for ARM devices is a win for partners and a win for their customers.”

For additional information about ARM-based support, visit the website here.

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Liquid Web Partners with Malwarebytes to Enhance Hosting Security

Malwarebytes Enhances MSPs’ Endpoint Security with ConnectWise Integration

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This collaboration strengthens Liquid Web’s commitment to providing its customers with the most comprehensive and advanced security solutions available as a part of their industry-leading hosting plans.

Through this partnership, Liquid Web will leverage the ThreatDown multi-tenant console to integrate Endpoint Detection and Response into its packages, ensuring customers benefit from additional security measures as part of a larger initiative to enhance all existing security packages.

“The ThreatDown multi-tenant console provides us with a single-pane-of-glass to manage and enhance our customers’ security,” says Stephanie Kristek, Liquid Web Product Manager. “It’s another example of how Liquid Web continues to provide innovative solutions for customers that ensure they remain secure, compliant, and highly performant.”

Specifically designed to meet the cybersecurity needs of small to midsize organizations, ThreatDown EDR provides powerful threat detection and remediation services with 24/7/365  monitoring, investigations, and response. ThreatDown EDR finds and stops known and unknown malware, including ransomware, completely removing all of the associated artifacts, changes, and other remnants (that other solutions miss) to prevent reinfection.

This advanced offering delivers a proactive defense against emerging threats, including fileless and zero-day attacks, to reduce potential data breaches, improve website performance, and support compliance with industry standards.

“Our partnership with Liquid Web underscores our commitment to take down complexity in cybersecurity,” says Brian Thomas, SVP of Global Channels, Malwarebytes. “The ThreatDown multi-tenant console provides a unified interface for a holistic view of customer endpoint security. Layered on top is our Security Advisor dashboard, which offers one-click insights into overall security posture and provides actionable recommendations for quick improvements. This powerful combination enables Liquid Web to ensure their customers’ websites and applications are protected from even the most sophisticated attacks, with measurable before-and-after security score improvements.”

Key benefits of the Liquid Web and Malwarebytes partnership include:

• Proactive Threat Detection: ThreatDown solutions continuously monitor for suspicious activity, identifying threats before they can cause damage.
• Automated Response: ThreatDown EDR can automatically take action to contain threats, such as isolating infected systems or blocking malicious traffic.
• Enhanced Compliance: The ThreatDown console capabilities and reporting can help Liquid Web customers meet strict industry compliance standards.

Learn more about LiquidWeb and Web hosting with ThreatDown for every need, here.

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Malwarebytes Enhances MSPs’ Endpoint Security with ConnectWise Integration

Application Block Included in Malwarebytes ThreatDown Bundle

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The ConnectWise integration, certified through the ConnectWise Invent program, will help Malwarebytes reach more partners and help them simplify security for resource constrained IT teams. According to IDC, 40% of small and mid-size businesses do not have a full-time IT employee in-house. Of those that do have in-house IT, 63% have only two to four staffers. This makes many SMBs leery of complex integrations and dependent on the channel for their cybersecurity needs.

“MSPs on the front lines of cybersecurity everyday need streamlined, efficient solutions to help them stay ahead of today’s sophisticated threats,” said Brian Thomas, SVP of Global Channels, Malwarebytes. “We’ve purpose built ThreatDown solutions for MSPs to take down threats, including the latest ransomware, Remote Access Trojans, malware droppers, spyware and more, while also taking down complexity and costs. This new integration with ConnectWise underscores our commitment to the channel and provides partners with simple, effective cybersecurity solutions.”

“We are thrilled to see Malwarebytes’ continued support of the IT Nation Community through numerous, easy-to-use integrations,” said Chris Timms, EVP & GM, Ecosystems for ConnectWise. “Our primary objective is to consistently equip our partners with the necessary tools to achieve success and expand their customer base. The integration of ThreatDown products and services within the ConnectWise Asio platform will provide more automation, protection, detection, and options for guided remediation and response, ensuring our users have access to top-notch security measures within a centralized platform.”

For more information on the Malwarebytes ConnectWise integration visit the website here.

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Application Block Included in Malwarebytes ThreatDown Bundle

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“Today’s sophisticated cyber criminals are looking at legitimate applications as vehicles for malware,” said Marcin Kleczynski, Founder and CEO, Malwarebytes. “By offering Application Block for free, we’re giving customers another crucial preventative layer to fortify their cybersecurity defenses and reduce avenues for threats.”

Cybercriminals are increasingly hiding malware behind legitimate applications in order to trick users into installing malicious files. Malicious software takes many forms, and when launched, can wreak havoc on an organization. But it can be difficult for employees to know what applications are safe. The ability for IT to quickly and easily block unwanted or malicious applications becomes a key component for a strong cybersecurity posture.

How ThreatDown Application Block Works

ThreatDown Application Block protects endpoints from attackers looking to exploit vulnerable software by blocking unauthorized, unwanted or malicious applications from launching. IT teams can deny specific applications, including productivity-killing apps that are out of the scope of business, and align application usage with the organization’s acceptable use policies. Product highlights and benefits include:

• Improved Application Security: Reduce threats posed by malware hidden in third-party applications.
• Improve Employee Productivity: Prevent employees from accessing time wasting apps that have no business purpose.
• Satisfy Compliance Requirements: Reduce the risk of fines imposed for failing to meet data protection regulations.
• Streamline Reporting: Simplify notifications and reporting within an integrated console dashboard.

Learn more about application block and stopping unwanted applications from launching on your endpoints.

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ThreatDown by Malwarebytes Enhances Value for Sherweb MSPs

Identity Theft Protection Announced by Malwarebytes To Prevent Online Fraud

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Sherweb has enhanced its collaboration with the global cybersecurity provider Malwarebytes. To better serve Managed Service Providers (MSPs), ThreatDown powered by Malwarebytes (formerly Malwarebytes for Business) is now accessible in the Sherweb marketplace.

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The report demonstrates that as technology has advanced, so have people’s fear and anxiety about what risks they may experience as a result of their digital footprint. With new apps and technologies always emerging, individuals of all ages are unclear about how to stay safe online—or if doing so is even possible.

“Privacy and security are inextricably linked yet the general public has resigned itself to risk because of the overwhelming nature of threats,” said Marcin Kleczynski, Co-founder and CEO, Malwarebytes. “Education is the foundation. In cybersecurity, we have a special opportunity to break down the intricacies of cybersecurity and make protection approachable and accessible, thereby empowering individuals to take ownership and control of their online identities. Our mission at Malwarebytes is to provide trusted protection in an online world where nothing is for certain.”

“Just because the internet cannot be trusted doesn’t mean that we should give up. And yet, that’s exactly where we find ourselves today, with only 35% of people using antivirus tools, 24% using multi-factor authentication and 15% using a password manager,” said Oren Arar, VP of Consumer Privacy, Malwarebytes. “With meaningful education, we hope to change the public’s relationship with the internet, away from anxiety and together towards security.”

Key Findings:

• Risky Behaviors: People readily give up a host of private info online by engaging in activities such as sharing their birthdate on social media (59%), interacting with strangers (54%) and taking quizzes that reveal personal info (45%).
• Online Fear is High: Everyone worries about online security threats, and nearly 80% say they are “very” concerned about the risks of being online. Only half feel confident in their ability to keep themselves safe. Financial and data breaches are people’s top concerns.
• Cognitive Dissonance: Despite high anxiety and the fact that 70% have experienced cybersecurity threats before, only a handful use cybersecurity tools, with the most dominant being antivirus at only 35%. In general, there’s a serious disconnect between people’s fears, their online behaviors and their general lack of cybersecurity protection.
• New Tech, New Fear: Generative AI and TikTok users aren’t sure they can trust these relatively new players just yet, especially given TikTok’s ownership. 69% of generative AI users and 63% of TikTok users are concerned their data might be misused or stolen.
• Identity Theft Anxiety: Identity theft ranks as people’s third biggest concern when it comes to online security, just behind fear of financial accounts and personal data being breached (both of which play into identity theft as well). 64% agree identity theft protection is one of the most important cybersecurity tools, but only 13% have it.
• Feeling Resigned: One in four respondents feel there’s no point in using cybersecurity tools given the vast number of threats, and 41% are unsure how cybersecurity tools can help protect them. Three in four parents feel they need better tools and education to keep kids safe online.

To learn more about Malwarebytes click HERE and to dig into the full findings of the report “Everyone’s Afraid of the Internet (and No One’s Sure What to Do About it)” click HERE.

Survey Methodology
To better understand people’s attitudes and behaviors toward online safety and security, Malwarebytes commissioned an independent research study among 1,000 internet users ages 13-77 in North America. The survey asked users to dig deep into what they worry about when it comes to online security, what activities they typically engage in and what measures they take to stay safe online.

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Ransomware Attacks Aimed at Education Organizations Increased

OneView MSP Platform Launched by Malwarebytes for Mobile Devices

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The startling escalation of ransomware attacks paired with the struggle of schools to budget for and find cybersecurity talent tells a dire tale. Data from the 2022 CoSN Ed Tech Leadership Survey¹ demonstrates that the availability of specialist cybersecurity positions continues to be low, only “a fifth (21%) of districts have a full-time equivalent employee dedicated to network security, the same percentage as the prior year.” An additional 33% of districts include cybersecurity responsibilities as part of another position in lieu of a full-time assigned staff member.

“Our schools and educational institutions are under attack from cybercriminals looking to take advantage of dispersed endpoints and often limited IT staff and cybersecurity budgets,” said Robert Elworthy, Senior Solutions Engineer for Education, Malwarebytes. “The cybersecurity industry must step up to help schools and students by providing effective, easy-to-use solutions that can secure devices and data from today’s sophisticated and targeted threats.”

Education: A Vice Society Target
The Vice Society ransomware gang is known to focus on education organizations, targeting almost half of its activity (43%) against the sector.

“Like all ‘big game’ ransomware attacks, a Vice Society attack is not directed at an individual computer but instead uses encryption and data theft to compromise an entire organization,” said Mark Stockley, Cybersecurity Evangelist, Malwarebytes. “Attackers may work for several days, or even weeks, inside a victims’ network before running their ransomware. Because Vice Society may be active on a network for days before running a ransomware locker, it is not enough to simply stop the locker. By the time it’s run, its operators will already have stolen data, taken steps to cover their tracks and will likely have sufficient access to a network to retry their attack.”

Organizations need to ensure that a security analyst is able to review the path of the attack, close the open access point or vulnerability and eject their tools, account access and backdoors. Malwarebytes offers a managed 24/7/365 service, Malwarebytes MDR, to assist organizations that lack the resources for a fully staffed Security Operations Center (SOC).

Malwarebytes Partners with SETDA and CoSN
Malwarebytes is also partnering with the State Educational Technology Directors Association (SETDA) and the Consortium for School Networks (CoSN) to bring its award-winning endpoint solutions to educational institutions nationwide. With a commitment to both designing and pricing its solutions for K-12 education organizations, Malwarebytes will provide special offers and additional support options to the members of these marquee associations.

To learn more about Malwarebytes for Business offerings for the education sector, including mobile security for Chromebooks and ChromeOS protection, visit the website HERE, or to view the 2023 State of Ransomware in Education report, click HERE.

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¹ CoSN Cybersecurity Staffing Resource for K-12, October 5, 2022. https://oercommons.org/courses/cybersecurity-staffing-resource-for-k-12?__hub_id=87

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