A Web browser add-on aimed targeted at Pinterest users may have a malicious true motive.
The application Pinterest Zoom claims that it is a magnifying glass feature that allows users to zoom on in images without having to click into a pin. But in reality, according to online threat watchdog GFI Labs, the application injects ads into user’s websites and YouTube videos.
The Daily Dot reached out to Pinterest Zoom via the email address listed on its site but it appears to have been suspended.The email bounced back with the following message:
“Diagnostic information for administrators:
Generating server: widdit.com”
Widdit is a toolbar add-on identified as malicious content by the Norton Antivirus community.
In the last two years, Pinterest has emerged as one of the fastest growing social networks. As a result, it has been the target of increasing spam attacks.
In April, the boards for “Easter” and “Easter meal” were spammed with images redirecting users to advertising sites. Scams like this have rallied the Pinterest community together to fight phishing and resulted on Pinterest beefing up its security.
Screengrab via Pinterest Zoom