Microsoft has sued 117 phishers, it was announced yesterday. The
lawsuits, which will enable the software giant to identify the
fraudsters behind phishing schemes, are part of the company's
commitment to tackling cyber-crime.
A typical phishing attack occurs when a fraudster sends an
e-mail that contains a link to a fraudulent web site where users
are asked to provide personal account information. The e-mail and
web site are usually disguised to appear to recipients as though
they are from a bank or other trusted service provider.
The number of such phishing attacks has increased phenomenally
in the last year. In January alone, according to the Anti-Phishing
Working Group, the number of phishing attacks jumped 42% from those
reported in December, while the US Federal Trade Commission reports
that identity theft was the top US consumer complaint in
2004.
"The internet has revolutionised the way we communicate,
transact business and educate ourselves," said Aaron Kornblum,
Internet Safety Enforcement attorney at Microsoft. "Microsoft
provides consumers with the information and technology that will
help protect all of us from this pervasive and destructive threat,
and has filed legal action today against some of these
individuals."
According to CNET News.com, the suits relate to the
fraudsters' use of Microsoft trade marks in their fake e-mails and
web sites.
The announcement of the filings came as part of a press
conference highlighting the dangers of phishing schemes, organised
with the FTC and National Consumers League.
The officials urged internet users to follow three simple
rules:
- Be suspicious if someone contacts you unexpectedly and asks for
your personal information.
- Don't click on a link in an e-mail message that asks for your
personal information.
- If someone contacts you and says you've been a victim of fraud,
verify the person's identity before you provide any personal
information.
