Look out for this PC malware that tries to steal social media details

Surface Laptop Go Ports
Surface Laptop Go Ports (Image credit: Daniel Rubino / Windows Central)

What you need to know

  • A type of malware was recently discovered that attempts to steal people's personal information by obtaining social media account details.
  • The stealer then logs into a user's social media accounts and shows fake ads to trick people into entering personal information.
  • The malware disguises itself by pretending to be the messaging app Telegram.

FFDroider disguises itself as a fake version of the messaging app Telegram. Once on a victim's PC, the program targets a browser with the intention of stealing cookies and credentials. Google Chrome, Mozilla Firefox, Internet Explorer, and Microsoft Edge can all be targeted by the stealer.

After stealing information, FFDroider gets into the target's social media accounts, such as Facebook. It can then show malicious advertisements that trick people into entering personal information.

In addition to going after details connected to Facebook, Instagram, and Twitter, FFDroider targets Amazon, eBay, and Etsy.

Telegram is one of the best WhatsApp alternatives, and many people have adopted it over the last year or so. Potential victims may be unfamiliar with Telegram and download an imposter version of the app.

Like many pieces of malware, the ultimate goal of FFDroider is to obtain sensitive information that can be used to steal money.

To protect yourself from FFDroider and other attacks, make sure to enable two-factor authentication on social media accounts and to make sure that you download apps from reputable sources. Using some of the best antivirus software can also help keep your PC and information safe.

Sean Endicott
News Writer and apps editor

Sean Endicott is a news writer and apps editor for Windows Central with 11+ years of experience. A Nottingham Trent journalism graduate, Sean has covered the industry’s arc from the Lumia era to the launch of Windows 11 and generative AI. Having started at Thrifter, he uses his expertise in price tracking to help readers find genuine hardware value.

Beyond tech news, Sean is a UK sports media pioneer. In 2017, he became one of the first to stream via smartphone and is an expert in AP Capture systems. A tech-forward coach, he was named 2024 BAFA Youth Coach of the Year. He is focused on using technology—from AI to Clipchamp—to gain a practical edge.