Security news
Security news28 July 2004
MyDoom proves no doom in Australia, says Sophos
Sophos, a world leader in protecting businesses against spam and viruses, is delighted to report that the MyDoom-O computer worm - apparently causing significant problems elsewhere in the world - does not seem to have troubled Australian businesses.
"Although virulent, this worm is easy to detect and prevent for businesses with sensible email policies," said Paul Ducklin, Sophos's Head of Technology, Asia Pacific. "Australian users have shown themselves willing to take on the virus problem not just with technology but with a good dose of common sense."
As a confidence trick, MyDoom-O produces emails which warn you to open an attached file for security reasons, allegedly because "your e-mail account has been used to send a large amount of unsolicited e-mail messages during this recent week".
Since many users in Australia are understandably afraid of being billed by their ISPs for emails sent by someone else, this tactic might seem a likely way for the latest MyDoom variant to worm its way around this country. But Ducklin suggests that users are building a healthy cynicism for claims made in email.
"Few people really believe emails which promise to extend various parts of their body," remarked Ducklin. "Likewise, they are learning to disbelieve emails which claim to be a magic bullet for their supposed security problems."
- Information about MyDoom-O
- Free detection and disinfection of MyDoom-O
- Simple steps to defend against viruses
About Sophos
Sophos enables enterprises all over the world to secure and control their IT infrastructure. Sophos's network access control, endpoint, web and email solutions simplify security to provide integrated defenses against malware, spyware, intrusions, unwanted applications, spam, policy abuse, data leakage and compliance drift. With over 20 years of experience, Sophos protects over 100 million users in nearly 150 countries with its reliably engineered security solutions and services. Recognized for its high level of customer satisfaction and powerful yet easy-to-use solutions, Sophos has received many industry awards, as well as positive reviews and certifications.
Sophos is headquartered in Boston, US and Oxford, UK. More information is available at www.sophos.com
