Security news
Security news11 July 2006
Widespread Gmail phishing email lures with $500 cash prize Think you've won $500 from Gmail? Think again.
Experts at SophosLabs™, Sophos's global network of virus, spyware and spam analysis centers, have warned of a widespread phishing email campaign that tries to trick users out of money by pretending to be a random cash prize from Gmail, Google's popular free email service.
The emails claim that the recipient has been randomly selected for a $500 cash prize, and that the money can be automatically paid to them if they click on the embedded web link.
The email claims that the recipient has won $500 from Gmail.
The link users are told to click on pretends to be a legitimate Gmail link, but really points to a bogus Tripod-hosted website. The fake web page says that there has been a problem sending the payment, and asks victims to enter their details and pay a membership fee of $8.60.
The web page pretends to be connected to Google Gmail.
"Of course this email wasn't really sent by the folks at Gmail, and the $500 cash prize doesn't exist. Anyone tempted to try and collect it is in danger of walking straight into a trap set by these fraudsters," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "People need to learn that there is no such thing as a free lunch, and to be much more wary of unsolicited email communications whoever they may appear to come from."
Earlier this year, Sophos revealed in a survey that 58% of people receive a phishing email every day, and the company recommends that computer users protect themselves with a consolidated solution which can defend against the threats of spam, spyware and viruses.
Organizations concerned about being fraudulently represented in phishing campaigns can sign up to the Sophos early warning system, Sophos PhishAlert.
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About Sophos
Sophos enables enterprises all over the world to secure and control their IT infrastructure. Sophos's network access control, endpoint, web and email solutions simplify security to provide integrated defenses against malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, data leakage and compliance drift. With over 20 years of experience, Sophos protects over 100 million users in nearly 150 countries with its reliably engineered security solutions and services. Recognized for its high level of customer satisfaction and powerful yet easy-to-use solutions, Sophos has received many industry awards, as well as positive reviews and certifications.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com
