A simple malware attack could expose all the data stored in a web browser, including browsing habits, online purchases and bank information, according to a new threat report released on Monday.
The major internet companies and service providers already collect encyclopedias of user data, but there's also a wealth of information stored locally in a user's web browser. That data can include a variety of personal information that is valuable to criminals, and it's there for the taking, according to a report released by Exabeam, a security intelligence company.
"All of a sudden I know where you go, at what time, what you're buying," said Barry Shteiman, director of research at Exabeam. "I know a lot of things that I, the attacker, should not know about you. It’s credit card-level information."
The report sheds light on how enterprising cybercriminals can target information people might not know exists in their browsers. The researchers looked at the popular Firefox and Chrome browsers.
After maliciously gaining access to a person's browser with software that can easily be purchased on the internet, thieves can dig into the treasure trove of information left in the browser to gain a better understanding of how users spend their time online and offline.
Source : nbcnews
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