July 2009
BitDefender Detects New Michael Jackson Malware
Michael Jackson▓s death leads to a new wave of spam attacks
BitDefender╝ researchers have detected a new wave of spam attacks focused around the death of Michael Jackson.
The spam messages use the subject line⌠Who killed Michael Jackson?■ and directs users to an X-Files themed website. The target website directs users to run a file that claims to have secret information on the supposed killer, including photos and other details pertaining to Michael Jackson▓s death. The file is a recycled ZBot that causes infected machines to send hundreds of messages without the users knowledge or consent, while consuming valuable network and computing resources.
Spammers are also using Michael Jackson▓s death to direct users to websites selling sexual enhancement drugs. Both the subject and body of the message say ⌠Michael Jackson dead? NO!!!■ and contains advertisements for sexual enhancement drugs.
⌠Users should be cautious of any email messages offering new revelations regarding Michael Jackson▓s death,■ said Vlad Valceanu, head of BitDefender▓s anti-spam research. ⌠Malware writers are always looking for opportunities to take advantage of users, so it is important for computer users to have a security solution installed on their systems to avoid these types of attacks.■
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