The names of certain famous people not only attract the interest of millions of Internet users, but are also used as "Trojan horses" by malicious elements seeking to distribute malware. What appears to be a juicy piece of gossip can end up infecting a computer or mobile device, and once again, Intel Security (also known as McAfee) has published a list with the most dangerous names. Across the pond, Amy Schumer took the first spot, while in Latin America, the number one is Sofía Vergara.
The phrase "be careful what you wish for" fits the reality of the Web very well. We have the power to find practically anything, but there are interests that seek to exploit the cracks in that power and obtain some kind of benefit, whether economic or otherwise. In other words, security experts recommend thinking twice before every click and every search. It is never a good idea to stray from the official paths, and whoever does so should take the necessary precautions, because they could enter a true minefield. That is a lesson learned the hard way by millions of users focused on getting news about their favorite celebrities… not to mention extra material. Leaks are the order of the day, and it is clear that the celebrities in question are not very bright when it comes to protecting their digital lives. Which are the names preferred by attackers to distribute malware? The people at Intel Security share their list with us.
The Most Dangerous Celebrities in the United States
Their first study focuses on the U.S. market, and the most dangerous celebrity is comedian Amy Schumer. Her multiple works in film, television, and on stage made her a highly sought-after name, and malware developers soon linked their resources to downloads and search results. Intel Security expanded on this by indicating that a combined search of Amy Schumer and BitTorrent has a 33 percent chance of leading to a malicious site. In second place is Justin Bieber, now sought much more for his scandals than for his music, and third place goes to Carson Daly, from the Today show on NBC.
The Most Dangerous Celebrities in Latin America
On the Latin American searches side, the first place goes to Colombian actress Sofía Vergara. The stunning lady from Barranquilla took American television by storm since her arrival to the series Modern Family, and added several projects on the big screen. The second spot on the Latin list also belongs to another Colombian, in this case Shakira. The singer, dancer, and producer is working on what will be her eleventh album, although the media seem still fascinated by her relationship with footballer Gerard Piqué. The podium is closed by Mexican actor, director, and producer Gael García Bernal, whom we find in projects like Salt and Fire and the Amazon Video web series Mozart in the Jungle. If you're going to search for information about them, you know: Be careful.
Intel Security
