Not having a compatible PC has led some people to look for unofficial copies of the OS. Bad idea. Keep reading to find out how one fraudulent installer puts your credentials and finances at risk.
Here’s the backstory
If your system is too old to run Windows 11, it’s best to get a new PC. Trying to circumvent the installation process and looking for unofficial installers could lead you to spoofed websites.
And that’s exactly what happened when HP’s Threat Research team found a domain that, at first glance, seems to be a legitimate Microsoft website. But the windows-upgraded.com domain hides a dangerous secret.
This spoofed site is complete with Microsoft branding, images and a similar design to an official Microsoft site. Unsuspecting visitors would see a Download Now button on the landing page, offering a free copy of Windows 11.
A Zip file is downloaded to your machine if you hit the button. The problem is the download isn’t Windows 11 at all. Instead, it’s a dangerous malware called RedLine used by cybercriminals to steal credentials, browser cookies, banking information and cryptocurrency wallet data.
Here’s a screenshot from HP Threat Research of what the site looks like:
Credit: HP Threat Research
“It collects various information about the current environment, such as the username, computer name, installed software and hardware information. The malware also steals stored passwords from web browsers, auto-complete data such as credit card information, and cryptocurrency files and wallets,” HP’s Threat Research explained in a blog post.
Thankfully the spoofed site has been taken down. But there will be others, so you need to know how to stay protected.
So long, farewell: Anyone who upgraded to Windows 11 on an old PC that technically doesn’t meet the latest operating system requirements is out of luck. Folks are reporting their tech dinos are stuck in a reboot loop. If you’re in the market, our IT genius, John, recommends this solid PC for under $650 that’ll last for years. If you edit video or need more power, here’s his pick for well under $1,000.
We may receive a commission when you buy through our links, but our reporting and recommendations are always independent and objective.
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