Scammers fake launch of iPhone 5 to spread malware
By Joe Elvin
07/06/2011
Internet scammers have faked the launch of the iPhone 5G S, in an attempt to spread malware onto computer networks.
As such, email users have warned to delete any mails which claim to be from Apple marketing this non-existent product.
It appears the scammers are hoping to capitalise on the hype surrounding the launch of Apple's Worldwide Developer Conference (WWDC) today. PC World did report on rumours that Apple would use the WWDC to launch the iPhone 5 although experts have stated that this is extremely unlikely.
The scammers' malicious email advertises a phoney sequel to the iPhone 4, with an in-built keyboard and a slimmer design.
Clicking on any links within the email releases a Trojan which affects the Windows operating system. Ironically it doesn't affect iPhone or Apple Mac users.
Those who want to protect their networks against such threats should consider it essential to invest in automated IT management software to achieve piece of mind, and also take the advice of Graham Cluely.
Writing for Sophos.com, the internet security expert warned PC users of the dangers of clicking links in the email.
He said: "Take care not to click on links contained inside the email, as they're directing to a malicious executable file called iphone5.gif.exe. Of course, the images of the iPhone 5 with a built-in hardware keyboard are just some fanboy's dream."
