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SciTech

Don't fall for Facebook 'pink pic' virus hoax


Users of social networking site Facebook were cautioned against falling for a hoax claiming a virus is behind a pink tinge on the profile pics of some Facebook friends. Sophos said the hoax claims a Facebook app that turns a profile picture pink carries "keylogger malware" that can spy on keypresses and steal passwords. "The warning is balderdash ... The app is not malicious and we have seen no evidence that it contains a keylogger. The truth is that your Facebook friends are doing something positive - helping raise money and awareness for the fight against breast cancer," it said in a blog post. It said the hoax claims a news outfit had just reported a Facebook app that adds a pink tinge to a profile picture to raise money for cancer is a virus. Sophos said Australian bank CUA raises funds every October for Breast Cancer Awareness Month. For this year, it decided to share an app that would change users' profile pictures pink to show that they were supporting the campaign. "Remember to always get your computer security advice from a computer security company. Friends may be well-intentioned in passing on warnings, but it's always good to check your facts before forwarding them any further," Sophos said. — TJD, GMA News

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