{"id":895,"date":"2020-12-15T20:32:24","date_gmt":"2020-12-16T01:32:24","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/groupesl.wpengine.com\/fake-microsoft-teams-update-virus\/"},"modified":"2025-07-08T14:21:27","modified_gmt":"2025-07-08T18:21:27","slug":"fake-microsoft-teams-update-virus","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/www.groupesl.com\/en\/news\/fake-microsoft-teams-update-virus\/","title":{"rendered":"Watch out for viruses hiding in fake Microsoft Teams updates"},"content":{"rendered":"

As more and more remote employees use Microsoft Teams to collaborate on different business projects during the COVID-19 pandemic, hackers are trying to take advantage of this situation. Microsoft recently warned its users about a virus that is hidden in fake Microsoft Teams updates.<\/p>\n

In this article, our cyber security specialists explain the strategy of hackers involved in this scheme and how to protect yourself from it.<\/p>\n

A fake MS Teams update with hidden ransomware<\/h2>\n

In recent years, hackers have developed new tactics to take companies and institutions hostage.<\/p>\n

Ransomware, or CryptoLockers, are Trojan horse type computer viruses that lock data stored in an IT infrastructure using a technique called asymmetric encryption. The owners of affected systems have no choice but to pay a ransom to the hackers if they want to recover their data. This is the kind of virus that hides in a fake software update. So use Microsoft Teams<\/a> with care.<\/p>\n

A misleading advertisement that seems to be legitimate<\/h3>\n

To spread their ransomware<\/a>, hackers simply bought advertising space online. Both on websites and in search results, internet users may come across a legitimate, professional looking advertisement informing them that a Teams update is available.<\/p>\n

Thinking they are doing the right thing, many people click on the ad and unknowingly install a malicious file that contains a backdoor for hackers to access their computer.<\/p>\n

How to protect yourself from these kinds of threats<\/h2>\n

The best way to protect yourself against this computer virus is to be vigilant about Microsoft Teams advertisements that you may see online, especially if they lead to a supposed update. We recommend always updating your MS Teams and other Microsoft 365<\/a> suite tools within the software itself.<\/p>\n

Installing an antivirus and firewall specifically designed for a professional working environment is another good way to counter the plans of hackers trying to take advantage of the remote work environment.<\/p>\n

To avoid having to pay a ransom to regain access to your data, you should also keep backups of all your data on a variety of platforms.<\/p>\n

Finally, Microsoft itself has recommended:<\/p>\n