A report on Tuesday revealed that those who searched for links of 'Delhi Crime' and 'Mardani 2' to watch them for free online were at the highest risk of being hacked.
Even though digital streaming apps and websites have seen significant growth in India in terms of their user base, there are still many who wish to watch subscription-based content for free online. Their search often, however, leads them to potential security attacks.
Cybersecurity firm McAfee's revealed the results of its new research on "top 10 web risk list" which include both TV series and movies. 'Delhi Crime' and 'Mardaani 2' were at the top spot in their respective categories for the hackers misusing the title to lure users.
In the top 10 movies in the risk list were Mardaani 2, Zootopia, Jawaani Jaaneman, Chapaak, Love Aaj Kal, Inception, Bahubali, Rajnigandha, Gully Boy and Bala.
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In TV series, these shows when searched for free links online posed the highest risk: Brooklyn Nine-Nine, Panchayat, Akoori, Fauda, Ghoul, Mindhunter, Narcos, Devlok, and Lost made the list (highest threat to the lowest).
Users when visiting websites for watching films and TV shows for free are exposed to malicious pages and links that install trojans and other viruses/malware that can steal their data and sensitive information like passwords.
"The lockdown induced surge in online entertainment traffic has brewed the perfect storm for cybercriminals. They are following and targeting consumers' obsession with accessing content - particularly for free," said Venkat Krishnapur, vice-president of engineering and managing director, McAfee India.
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This research also informed that the regional language content is witnessing a rise in online viewership, which again puts users at risk if they search for free web streaming.
"Refrain from using illegal streaming sites. Many illegal streaming sites are riddled with malware disguised as pirated video files. Do your device a favor and stream the show from a reputable source. In these uncertain times, it is crucial that consumers stay vigilant, invest in responsible online behaviour and recognize that if something is too good to be true, it probably isn't true," - advised the researchers.
So netizens are adviced to exercise due precautions and not click on suspicious pages/links to protect their digital data.
(With Agency Inputs)
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