Take this advice - don't be fooled into opening emails that claim to have all the answers to the approaching end of financial year, as it might just be the next malevolent virus dressed up in a desirable disguise, one industry expert has warned.
-I wouldn't be surprised if a virus writer came up with something financially related as it nears the end of the financial year," a spokesperson for Trend Micro Australia told ZDNet.
A common tool used to create malicious worms, is the use of "social engineering" to appeal to the victim's vulnerable side, such as the words -Need help with your tax?" -- and hook, line and sinker, you've been snared.
The infamous Love Bug used such tactics to trick end-users in to executing the virus, proof that the mere words -I love you" ensure we think with our hearts not our heads.
Other viruses have used similar tactics, such as the Anna Kornikova virus and the recent J.Lo worm which enticed users to run the attachment with saucy images, "Check it out--Jennifer Lopez NAKED!!!".
Trend Micro is warning that virus writers may seek to temp end-users with financial tips for the end of this financial year. But be forewarned, even the best technology will not guard against foolish or absentminded behaviour.
The only way to protect yourself is to keep your wits about you and DON'T OPEN THAT ATTACHMENT, without checking its authenticity first.
