A Growing Threat to Online Safety
A recently released report from Kaspersky Digital Footprint Intelligence has shed light on the alarming prevalence of infostealer malware. The data reveals that nearly 26 million devices fell victim to this type of malware across 2023 and 2024, with more than 2 million unique bank card details being leaked.
The statistics are disturbing, with one in every 14 infections resulting in stolen bank card data. But it doesn't stop there - passwords, second-factor authentication cookies, and other sensitive credentials were also compromised. The Kaspersky analysts pointed out that 2024 saw a sharp rise in infections driven by certain malware strains.
Emerging Threats and the Rise of Redline
RisePro, which made up only 1.4% of infections in 2023, surged to 22.45% in 2024. Stealc, a newer threat first detected in 2023, also gained traction, increasing its share from 2.65% to 13.33%. Despite these emerging threats, Redline remained the most widespread infostealer, responsible for 34.36% of all infections.
By August 2024, researchers estimated that 15.9 million devices had been hit by infostealer malware in 2023. But by March 2025, that number had climbed to 16.49 million, surpassing earlier predictions by 3.69%. New log files from 2023 are still popping up on dark web platforms, suggesting the actual number of infections was even higher than expected.
Safeguarding Your Sensitive Information
With the alarming rise in infostealer malware infections and the increasing sophistication of cybercriminals, it's crucial to take proactive measures to protect your sensitive information. Here are six effective ways to safeguard your bank cards and passwords:
- 1. Have strong antivirus software: Install and regularly update strong antivirus software on all your devices. Antivirus software can help detect and prevent infostealer malware infections.
- 2. Use virtual cards for online payments: Use virtual cards for online transactions to minimize the risk of your actual bank card details being compromised.
- 3. Be smart about passwords: Use strong passwords and change them frequently. Consider using a password manager to generate and store strong passwords.
- 4. Invest in personal data removal services: While no service promises to remove all your data from the internet, having a removal service can be beneficial if you want to constantly monitor and automate the process of removing your information from hundreds of sites continuously over a longer period of time.
- 5. Use two-factor authentication: Consider using additional digital security measures such as two-factor authentication to grant access to sensitive financial information.
- 6. Exercise caution when browsing online: Be cautious when browsing online, downloading apps, or making online transactions, and use tools like a password manager and antivirus software to enhance your security and make your life easier.
Avoiding the Trap of Infostealers
Infostealers are a major threat to everyone online, and they can be quite common. Since this malware often disguises itself as legitimate apps or uses social engineering tricks, it's easy to get fooled. Even the most cautious individuals can fall victim to a well-executed campaign.
The best way to stay safe is to exercise caution when browsing online, downloading apps, or making online transactions. Using tools like a password manager and antivirus software can also help enhance your security and make your life easier.