According to a report by “Heise”, cybercriminals are now using the opportunity to register Internet sites under the top-level domain (TLD).zip. Using .zip domains as a cybercrime tool is a particularly sophisticated tactic. It is not a coincidence as .zip is also known as a common file extension. This allows scammers to create fake-looking links that appear to lead to popular programs or important downloads. But in reality, these sites are nothing more than phishing attacks or the distribution of malicious software.

Sneaky downloads: How .zip domains become a data trap

An alarming approach by cybercriminals is to create domains with names like “microsoft-office.zip”. To unwary users, this may seem like a legitimate download link. But behind these supposed downloads there is a dangerous tactic: victims' personal data is actually being accessed and misused.

Given this threat, Internet users should exercise extreme caution when encountering a website with the .zip TLD. Although such .zip pages are still relatively rare, IT administrators should seriously consider temporarily completely blocking access to .zip domains. This step can help curb the threat of fraudulent activities and ensure user safety.

Conclusion

The use of .zip domains as a cybercrime tool poses a serious threat to Internet users. Deception through alleged download links to popular programs can lead to data loss, identity theft and other serious consequences. It is of utmost importance that users be vigilant, avoid suspicious .zip domains and rely on reliable sources. By blocking access to .zip domains, IT administrators can make an important contribution to the security of their users.

Source:

chip

You might also be interested in:
Google and prebunking: Fight fake news before it is spread
Protect yourself from the “Microsoft” scam: A current case!
Facebook chain letter: GDPR, data protection, algorithms and the truth behind the misinformation


If you enjoyed this post and value the importance of well-founded information, become part of the exclusive Mimikama Club! Support our work and help us promote awareness and combat misinformation. As a club member you receive:

📬 Special Weekly Newsletter: Get exclusive content straight to your inbox.
🎥 Exclusive video* “Fact Checker Basic Course”: Learn from Andre Wolf how to recognize and combat misinformation.
📅 Early access to in-depth articles and fact checks: always be one step ahead.
📄 Bonus articles, just for you: Discover content you won't find anywhere else.
📝 Participation in webinars and workshops : Join us live or watch the recordings.
✔️ Quality exchange: Discuss safely in our comment function without trolls and bots.

Join us and become part of a community that stands for truth and clarity. Together we can make the world a little better!

* In this special course, Andre Wolf will teach you how to recognize and effectively combat misinformation. After completing the video, you have the opportunity to join our research team and actively participate in the education - an opportunity that is exclusively reserved for our club members!


Notes:
1) This content reflects the current state of affairs at the time of publication. The reproduction of individual images, screenshots, embeds or video sequences serves to discuss the topic. 2) Individual contributions were created through the use of machine assistance and were carefully checked by the Mimikama editorial team before publication. ( Reason )