Cybersecurity firm Bitdefender has issued a warning regarding the emergence of malicious files disguised as the blockbuster film The Odyssey. While the movie has not yet been released on legal streaming platforms and IMAX screenings remain sold out for weeks, hackers are exploiting the gap in availability to target potential viewers.
According to the cybersecurity company, users have been attempting to download files they believe to be the film, only to trigger malicious executables. "Internal Bitdefender insights show that users have already tried to download malicious executables disguised as the movie," the firm stated. Researchers have observed these fake copies distributing a specific type of malware known as "Lumma Stealer," which infects a device the moment it is opened.
This campaign poses a serious threat to personal security. By gaining entry into a computer, attackers can access a wide range of sensitive data and tools, potentially allowing them to compromise a user's financial information and personal relationships. Bitdefender identified several lure file names circulating on the internet, noting that these are Windows executables designed to infect systems rather than play video content. The firm cautioned that this list of file names is not exhaustive and that criminals are likely utilizing numerous other variations.
This tactic is part of a broader trend of cybercrime. In 2025, researchers documented a nearly identical campaign involving the film Mission: Impossible – The Final Reckoning, where attackers used similar methods to distribute Lumma Stealer through torrent websites. Experts note that this risk is exacerbated because individuals seeking illegal content may be less vigilant about verifying file types or names, often expecting unconventional formats on such platforms.
To protect against these threats, Bitdefender strongly advises the public to consume films only through recognized, legitimate streaming services. Additionally, users are encouraged to maintain up-to-date cybersecurity software and operating systems to mitigate the risk of infection.
Hackers typically exploit the window between a film's cinema release and its arrival on legal streaming platforms such as Netflix and Amazon Prime.
