Infosecurity

Michael Jackson's death triggers spam attacks

By Robin Hicks | 2 July 2009

The death of pop legend Michael Jackson has triggered a swathe of attacks by internet fraudsters attempting to capture computer users’ email addresses to use for future spam campaigns.

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Spammers launched a wave of emails in the hours after ‘the King of Pop’ died, claiming to have information on the details of his death, according to IT security firm Sophos.

Messages were contained in the subject line and body of the email. The emails did not claim any call-to-action links, such as a phone number or URL, but the spammer would be able to harvest recipients email addresses via a free live email address if a user was to reply.

“This type of news story is the perfect vehicle for spammers to snare vulnerable computer users. These spammers are relying on curious users to reply to their bogus claims,” said Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant at Sophos.

“We’ve also discovered cybercriminals taking advantage of the death of 70s TV icon Farrah Fawcett to spread fake anti-virus software, so users should remain vigilant.”

Meanwhile, Sophos is warning computer users to beware a mass-email worm attack with the subject line ‘Remembering Michael Jackson’. The attack began today (Thursday 2 July).

The email claims to contain special edition Michael Jackson songs and pictures with an attachment. But if opened, the user’s computer will be infected and spread the worm on to other computers.