Those tempted to access fake websites run risk of phishing scams and having computer infected with malware<\/p>\n
The Odyssey is the hottest release this summer and you have been looking forward to seeing the much-acclaimed adaptation of Homer\u2019s epic ancient Greek poem. But you have been unable to go to the cinema, so when you spot an ad to watch online, you jump at the chance.<\/p>\n
There are positive reviews posted on the site so you decide to sign up. Although it asks for your bank details \u2013 which is unusual for a \u201cfree\u201d trial \u2013 you are so eager to watch the blockbuster you input your details.<\/p>\n
The site is a fraud, however, and there is no version of the film to watch. Reviews are fake and your bank details are in the hands of criminals.<\/p>\n
You have fallen for a common type of scam that piggybacks on the release of a popular new film, TV show, or even a video game. By offering early, or easy access, fraudsters hope that victims will input their financial details.<\/p>\n
However, anyone who is tempted has been warned they run the risk of having their computer infected with malware and becoming the target of future phishing scams.<\/p>\n
BeStreamWise, a UK campaign body set up to alert the public to the dangers of illegal streaming, says people who submit their personal details are at risk of being targeted by fraudsters again, as well as having money taken from their accounts.<\/p>\n
\u201cCriminals are quick to exploit excitement around major releases, such as The Odyssey, using fake streaming links and websites to trick people into handing over personal information and exposing themselves to fraud,\u201d it says.<\/p>\n
A number of websites have been set up in different languages in an attempt to make the scam appear more convincing.<\/p>\n
In some cases consumers are targeted via pop-up adverts; in others, the sites appear in search results, or are accessed via other websites. Reviews and ratings \u2013 all fake \u2013 are left by \u201cusers\u201d who have supposedly watched the film on the site.<\/p>\n
The cybersecurity company Kaspersky says some of the fake sites claim to offer dubbed versions of the film in the victim\u2019s native language. The language is selected depending on the geolocation of the victim.<\/p>\n
Typically, when the victim tries to play the film, they are asked to register to unlock the content, which they are told is free.<\/p>\n
They are asked to submit their email address and full name. Later, they are asked to input their bank details, which the site claims are needed in order to activate the trial. The sites typically claim that those who sign up will be offered unlimited access to content over multiple devices.<\/p>\n
Olga Altukhova, an analyst at Kaspersky, says consumers should be particularly wary if a film that has only just been released, and is still showing in cinemas, pops up on an unfamiliar platform.<\/p>\n
\u201cWe strongly encourage people to access content only through official services to protect their personal data and avoid potential financial losses,\u201d she says.<\/p>\n