Cyber criminals are exploiting Internet users’ worry about the Influenza A (H1N1) outbreak, previously known as Swine Flu, seizing the change to infect computers as well as peddle dodgy pills and medication. Malware writers are joining spammers in leveraging the swine flu to reach unsuspecting computer users.
According to a report from The Sun, computer hackers are sending out spam emails with the subject, "Madonna caught swine flu!" so you'll click and infect your computer with a virus. Other fake emails say it's Salma Hayek who is infected, or that an epidemic has hit Hollywood.
This appears to be yet another attempt by hackers to exploit current events as lures to distribute their malware.
Articles masked as outbreak updates or helpful personal hygiene tips are spread through spam mails, hoping some will open and forward to their friends. Embedded within these files are computer viruses that infect a user’s computer custom made to take over the computer or stealing user’s information. Many spam messages also urge users to protect themselves to buy flu medication from their online pharmacies. Those who fall for spam online drug advertisements risk having their credit card information stolen or pay for fake pills, or not having any delivered after payment.
Some of the most common subject lines that consumers should be aware of include:
- Mexico on edge as reports of swine flu cases climb
- UK monitoring swine flu outbreak
- UK probes "17 swine flu reports"
- Global panic as swine flu spreads to Europe
- US declares emergency as Mexico flu death toll rises
- Probable Mexico swine flu death toll--103: Minister
- Swine flu case confirmed in Spain
- Are you worried about flu outbreak?
Related Articles:
- Swine Flu Outbreak Hits The Web Through Spam
- 32 Vaccines against Influenza A (H1N1) Swine Flu – Or is it?
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