Malware warning for some FileZilla version 3.5.3 and 3.7.3 installers

Avast! is warning users of a ‘malformed’ FileZilla FTP client that includes malware. FileZilla is a popular freeware FTP (File Tranfer Protocol) app, used for easily moving files from one host to another over the internet.

The malicious Filezilla installlers come from unofficial, third party sources, which appear to be legitimate, but actually packaged malware with the original FileZilla installer. The malware version of FileZilla looks and works exactly like the real thing, except it is able to steal and send your account and login details to attackers, which obviously undermines your security.

The affected installers are FileZilla version 3.5.3 and 3.7.3, but if you downloaded the app from a reputable source, you have nothing to worry about.

FileZilla have responded to the Avast! warning, pointing out that this is not a new threat. The developers also say that while they do all they can to stop malicious distribution of FileZilla, the best way to avoid threats is to only download the app from reputable sites.

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[Sources: Avast! Blog, FileZilla]