Phishers Target Automotive Sales Businesses

A top internet security firm, Symantec, has warned against a new wave of phishing e-mails. According to the warning, phishers have been targeting both the UK and US based automotive sales businesses.

The company's security experts have noted that the attackers have tried to access personal details by claiming to be from authentic sales brands. Such legal websites facilitate people to sell and purchase vehicles along with the option to advertise motorbikes and cars.

According to the security firm, there were numerous phishing websites created to gain access to users' private and confidential information. These phishing websites were harbored on free Web hosting domains. In one of such phishing websites, the page displayed that the brand was providing patrons with the opportunity of free advertising.

Another phishing website stated that information was required to make a payment for buying the vehicle chosen by the customer. To access the advantages, the customer was required to complete an ID verification process (fake) to enjoy the free offer.

Data targeted in these phishing attacks incorporates - card expiration dates, card's security code and credit card numbers as well as other details such as phone number, e-mail address and address of the customer and a security question along with its answer.

The security experts said that once users had furnished their personal details like passwords or e-mail address, they put themselves into the danger of fraud. Commenting on the issue, Symantec noted that the main objective behind these phishing attacks was monetary gain.

Meanwhile, this is not the first case when users have been attacked by means of fake websites. In the past, many security firms have also cautioned users about various phishing scams.

Hence, the security firm has recommended users not to follow malpractices to evade phishing attacks. Users should first verify website's URL, type the domain name of the brand's website directly into the address bar of browser instead of just following any link blindly and also ensure that they belongs to some brand. Users are also advised to regularly update their security software like firewalls and anti-virus software.

Related article: Phishers Expand Their Sphere of Attacks

» SPAMfighter News - 8/31/2010