YouTube Eradicates 3,000 Malicious Videos Spreading Malware

YouTube has taken decisive action against a network of 3,000 malicious videos that were disguised as legitimate software offerings. These videos were primarily labeled as “Game Hack/Cheat” and “Software Cracks/Piracy,” attracting users with the promise of downloadable content while secretly distributing malware and infostealers such as Lumma.

According to a report by Check Point Research, this operation, dubbed the “YouTube Ghost Network,” used sophisticated tactics to mislead viewers. By leveraging YouTube’s engagement features, the network created a façade of credibility, as users were lulled into believing the content was safe due to its high view counts and positive comments.

Malware Distribution Tactics Exposed

The videos in this network were not merely spam but appeared legitimate to many viewers. For instance, a video targeting Adobe Photoshop garnered approximately 293,000 views, while another focused on FL Studio attracted around 147,000 views. Such metrics could easily mislead users into downloading the associated software, which often contained harmful malware.

The Ghost Network effectively spread various types of malware including Rhadamanthys, Lumma infostealer, and RedLine malware. This method of deception is not new; similar campaigns have previously been identified on platforms like Reddit and WeTransfer, which also facilitated the distribution of Lumma malware.

Research indicates that this network has been operational since 2021, maintaining a consistent output of harmful content each year. Notably, the creation of such malicious videos has tripled in 2025, underscoring the growing prevalence and effectiveness of these malware distribution strategies.

Building Trust Through Deceptive Engagement

One of the critical factors contributing to the success of the Ghost Network was its ability to cultivate a network of positive interactions. Different sets of accounts were observed: some uploaded videos, while others liked, commented, and subscribed to these accounts, creating an illusion of legitimacy. This deceptive practice has made it more challenging for users to discern the safety of online content.

In today’s digital landscape, where reports indicate that up to 50% of all internet traffic may originate from bots, consumers must exercise increased caution. The tactics employed by this network illustrate the lengths to which cybercriminals will go to exploit unsuspecting users.

As Google continues to combat these threats, users are advised to remain vigilant when engaging with online content. Awareness of the potential dangers associated with downloading software from seemingly credible sources is essential in mitigating the risks associated with malware exposure.