Cyber criminals bring' festive' fraud

Dubai, Dec 18 (UNI) Internet users should be wary of online criminals who may use e-cards to steal your personal information, an IT company warned.

Since seasonal e-cards have now become more popular than traditional greeting cards, cyber fraudster may use this to their advantage, Gulf News reported.

The malicious websites often show up on popular search engines by using phrases such as 'Eid Muburak' or 'Christmas gift shopping.' When web users obtain their search results, they can also acquire links to sites hosting various malware designed to steal a user's financial information and identity.

Trend Micro, a leader in network antivirus and content security software and services, has identified a recent twist to the formula, where fake e-cards and e-greetings are designed to look genuine, by using brand names similar to well-known companies.

The e-cards often sign off with an authentication claim, stating that there are no worms or viruses in the body of the email itself.

These messages encourage a false sense of security on the part of their intended targets.

UNI