Scareware being spread though Skype
By Joe Elvin
20/05/2011
Cyber-criminals are attempting to spread malware via automated Skype calls.
Those receiving automated warnings about their anti-virus being out of date are likely being targeted by a scareware scam aimed at conning users out of their money.
According to tgdaily.com, the warning advises users to click a link in order to have their computer properly scanned, but these fake 'scans' always tell users that they are under threat and should purchase the company's anti-virus software immediately.
Those who aren't clued up about scareware scams may well be convinced enough to hand over the $19.95 asking price, even though there is likely nothing wrong with their computer. Such scams highlight the importance of protecting computer networks with quality IT management systems.
Discussing the scare tactics in an article for sophos.com, IT security expert Graham Cluely warned against taking any calls-to-action delivered by unsolicited Skype calls.
He said: "I'm not sure I would want to trust any product which uses Skype spam techniques to advertise itself, and presented itself in such an underhand manner.
"They seem to be keen for you to hand over your contact details (including your email address). For test purposes, I entered an email address but haven't received a communication yet. One thing is for sure, I am not going to trust whatever they say in that email."
