Experts at SophosLabs™, Sophos's global
network of virus, spyware and spam analysis centers, have welcomed
news that The Australian Communications Authority (ACMA) has
launched an investigation into the activities of a man suspected of
sending more than 2 billion 'Viagra spam' messages by email.
The investigation commenced after the ACMA received information
from OPTA, the Dutch Independent Regulator of Post and
Telecommunications.
The ACMA has seized a computer and related items from the
Australian resident, whose identity and whereabouts have not been
released, and is currently analysing this evidence.
The Australian Spam Act was introduced in 2003 to outlaw the
sending of spam in the country or to other regions. The act of
sending bulk unsolicited email is classified as a civil offence
under the act with repeat offenders risking being fined up to AU
$1.1 million (US $828,000) a day.
"It looks like a spammer from down-under has become so excited
with his or her own viagra spam, that they have forgotten about the
severe financial penalties that could be imposed by the
authorities, if they're caught out," said Graham Cluley, senior
technology consultant at Sophos. "Spam is a global problem. A junk
email message selling drugs can be received by internet users
around the world. It is good to see the high level of cooperation
between international authorities and we can only hope that a clear
message is sent to to spammers that their activities will not be
tolerated."
Sophos warns that computer users should be particularly wary of
purchasing medications touted by spammers online.
"If you think you need Viagra seek out a legitimate doctor, not
a quack on the internet. Buying medicine online from a website
advertised by spam email could put your health in mortal danger,"
continued Cluley.
Sophos recommends that companies protect their email gateways
with a consolidated solution to defend
against viruses, spyware and spam, as well as secure their desktop
and servers with automatically updated protection.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com.