Scam and virus alert!26 January 2005
There's nothing like being able to use the Internet freely with total peace of mind. However, security is always an issue and the best way we can protect ourselves from malicious intent and cyber criminals is to keep ourselves informed, be wary and most of all protect our PCs with the right anti-virus and anti-spyware software.
This week we highlight three scams that have recently been in the news.
Email spoofs
The latest alert on email spoofing comes from the Times who recently published an article on scammers who were spoofing emails from banks and popular sites like eBay. Victims are receiving emails that look like they are from these authentic sources and then tricked in to revealing their online login details.
When opened these emails infect the computer with key logging software which records the keys a user uses and sends the details back to the criminals thus allowing them to use other peoples' accounts and view all online transactions. The best precaution you can take is not to open any emails that look like they are from your bank or a site you visit regularly. Usually, trusted sources such as your bank or popular retailing sites will never ask for your details in an email.
You can also install anti-spyware software from Microsoft or Adware.
Tsunami appeal worm
If you see an email saying "Tsunami Donation! Please help!" - delete it immediately. According to Computer Weekly, the W32/VBSun-A worm spreads via email, tempting innocent users into clicking its malicious attachment by pretending to be an appeal for the tsunami relief effort. Opening the attachment will also forward the virus to other people in your address book. If you do want to donate to the tsunami relief visit the DEC web site.
There's also an alert of a 'Skulls virus' targeting smartphone users - anyone infected runs the risk of losing all their mobile data.
Wireless net 'Evil Twin' alert
The BBC also recently reported on an alert on fake 'hot spots' or access points to people using wireless high speed net, know as 'Evil Twin'. Once logged onto an Evil Twin, sensitive data can be intercepted. The advice against this threat is to be wary of using wi-fi enabled PCs for carrying out financial transactions and other such sensitive data transfers. Users should also make sure their wi-fi device has its security measures activated.
