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Beware: new malware scam impersonates Cloudflare

In the ever-evolving landscape of cybersecurity threats, a new and particularly devious scam has come to light.

Cybercriminals are now impersonating Cloudflare, one of the most trusted names in internet security, to trick users into compromising their own devices. Here’s what you need to know about this threat.


What’s happening?

Scammers are creating fake Cloudflare-branded landing pages that appear legitimate at first glance. These pages claim to assist users in resolving security issues on their websites. However, instead of offering genuine support, the scammers instruct victims to copy and paste code into their devices—a classic social engineering tactic.

By following these steps, unsuspecting users execute malicious scripts on their computers, effectively handing over control to the attackers. This type of scam not only endangers personal devices but can also compromise sensitive information, business operations, and financial security.


Why this scam works

The success of this malware scheme hinges on the widespread trust that users have in Cloudflare. As a leading provider of security and privacy solutions for websites, Cloudflare’s branding is a clever cover for attackers. The fraudulent landing pages often mimic legitimate Cloudflare designs, making it difficult for even tech-savvy individuals to spot the ruse.


How to stay protected

Verify the source: Always double-check the URL of any landing page claiming to be from Cloudflare. Look for slight misspellings or unusual domain extensions.

Don’t copy unverified code: Never copy and paste code from untrusted or unexpected sources, especially if the request comes from a website you didn’t actively seek out.

Use up-to-date security tools: Ensure your antivirus software and malware protection tools are current and capable of detecting the latest threats.

Educate yourself and your team: Awareness is the best defence. Share information about this scam with your colleagues and employees to prevent accidental infections.


Further information

For a more detailed breakdown of this scam, including screenshots of the fake landing pages and expert analysis, we recommend reading this excellent article from Malwarebytes. It provides in-depth insights into how the scheme operates and what steps you can take to avoid falling victim.


Need help?

If you’re concerned about the security of your business or personal devices, our team is here to help. Contact us today for a comprehensive cybersecurity assessment and personalised advice on staying safe in an increasingly complex digital world.

Cyber threats are always evolving, but staying informed is the first step to staying safe. Don’t let scammers catch you off guard. Stay vigilant, and remember—if something feels off, it probably is.