Don't open that attachment!
29th November 2013
In the past 2-3 weeks, we're seeing a huge rise in e-mails that contain attachments which ultimately contain malware - the sort of nasty virus things that compromise your computer and personal details, or destroy your data. One of the most notable items at the moment is the CryptoLocker Malware - we've blogged about this already here and here. However this time we wanted to share some examples of typical e-mails that you might see to help you understand what these types of things look like - helping you to avoid them.
Click any of the images to see a larger size version
(It goes without saying that you should have both Anti-Virus Software on your computers (and yes that includes Macs!) and seriously consider our Cloud Anti-Virus & Anti-Spam Screening Services.)
Example 1 - "Visa - Recent Transactions Report"
This is a relatively common type - the old "we think you have fraud on your account, please open this file and check your transactions" scam. The theory is you'll panic because it sounds like you have a problem, making it more likely you'll open it - but in reality, this, like the others contains malware that infects your computer. The simple fact is, no responsible bank, financial institution or similar will ever send attachments. Period.
Example 2 - "DHL Report" - the Courier Delivery Failures
Quite clever as many people have deliveries now with online shopping being as popular as it is. We see these with all type of couriers, particularly "DHL", "Fedex" and "UPS" being big, international couriers. Again, you won't get this from the real people, they don't send notifications by e-mail with attachments in this way. Just don't open them.
Example 3 - "PayPal"
If you believe these e-mails, your PayPal account has issues a lot. But again, a total scam - there is no issue, and PayPal definitely won't send you links to forms (or even it's own web site), nor will they attach anything, ever.
Example 4 - "Skype VoiceMail"
You've got a new message from Skype. Actually, you haven't. The attachment is another .zip file that has a .wav.exe file in it - or in other words, more viruses and malware. Just don't open it. Skype will let you check voicemail from the app itself.
Example 5 - "Companies House"
This is a good one because it's targeted at UK businesses and people don't tend to deal much with Companies House so can be easily conned. But no, Companies House didn't send this e-mail - they even have guidance on the web site about what they do and don't send - have a look here.
Others we've seen include...
- Your Bill is ready (from various companies)
- You have a new Apple iMessage
- Barclays, HSBC, Natwest and all the other banks - various versions
- You have a new MMS from <network> - like Vodafone, O2 etc
What should you do?
You should:
- Install and use good Anti-Virus Software - Free Versions are rarely as good, as up to date or as capable. Our team can advise your business on a suitable Anti-Virus tool.
- Use our Cloud Anti-Virus & Anti-Spam Screening Services - this gets shot of the vast majority of rubbish and potential viruses in one hit.
- Never. Ever. Ever. Ever. Ever open e-mails with attachments, and certainly NEVER EVER EVER open attachments from e-mails you don't expect to receive, especially if you don't normally get them from that company. Just don't. Ever. Not even once. It only takes once.
- Did we mention never ever open messages with attachments from people you don't deal with and aren't expecting to receive a message from?
Worried about your security and vulnerability to Viruses and Malware?
Why not speak to our team on 01392 950 950, and consider using our Security Services to help better protect your IT. Our specialist, trained engineers are here to help your business.
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