Security news
Security news19 December 2006
Windows Vista used as bait in aggressive image spam campaign
Experts at SophosLabs™, Sophos's global network of virus, spyware and spam analysis centers, have reminded computer users of the threat posed by image spam following a new campaign which purports to offer a cut-price edition of Microsoft Windows Vista.
Image spam, which uses a graphic embedded in an email rather than regular text, has grown in popularity amongst spammers attempting to communicate their marketing messages to internet users. Often image spam is used for promoting stock pump-and-dump scams or drugs to help with weight loss and sexual performance. In the latest widespread campaign seen by Sophos experts, image spammers are offering a bargain edition of Microsoft's new operating system, Windows Vista.
The spam email claims that the recipient can save $319.05 by downloading Windows Vista today.
The image spam offers a cut-price copy of Microsoft Windows Vista.
It is unclear whether acting upon the spam would furnish the computer user with a pirated edition of Windows Vista or simply steal their credit card details. Whatever the ruse, Sophos experts recommend that users do not fall into the spammer's trap.
"This widespread spam campaign carries all the hallmarks of a typical image spam. The spammer has added random noise in the form of speckled pixels to make the graphic slightly different on each sending, and users are told to type in the name of the website rather than clicking on a link," said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos. "Approximately 30% of all spam is now using images to try and sneak past anti-spam filters. Computer users need to ensure that they have strong defenses in place or they will continue to be bombarded by nuisances like this."
"The growth of image spam is one of the security stories of the year. Internet users should make it their New Year's resolution to make 2007 the time they got wise to internet threats," continued Cluley. "It's worrying just how poorly educated people are about web and email threats. System administrators and security geeks know about informative websites like GetSafeOnline but the average man in the street hasn't got a clue."
Sophos recommends companies protect themselves with a consolidated solution which can defend against the threats of spam, spyware and viruses.
When considering your anti-malware security vendor, what is more important to you?
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
