66,726 News Articles

Hackers release fake Microsoft patch update

Users urged to install Trojan masquerading as update

Hackers are using Microsoft's upcoming monthly patch release as a way of spreading malware across cyberspace.

A number of web users have received an email, which claims to be from Microsoft security assurance director Steve Lipner.

The spam includes a .exe attachment, which the email claims is "an experimental private version of an update for all Microsoft Windows OS users".

Recipients are urged to install the update "in order to help protect your computer against security threats and performance problems", even though Microsoft never sends out security updates as email attachments. If users do open the attachment, a Trojan virus will infect their PC with malware.

See also: Neosploit hacker kit is back on the web

Visit Security Advisor for the latest internet threat news, FREE net threat email newsletters, and internet security product reviews

Send to a friend

Email this article to a friend or colleague:


PLEASE NOTE: Your name is used only to let the recipient know who sent the story. Both your name and the recipient's name and address will not be used for any other purpose.


IDG UK Sites

Tesco to launch Hudl tablet next week with budget price

IDG UK Sites

iOS 7: 22 of the best, most amazing, features coming to Apple's iPhone

IDG UK Sites

How additional e-ink displays might help win the smartphone and laptop battery battle

IDG UK Sites

Hands on: Adobe's Mighty and Napoleon drawing hardware for iPad, coming 2014

* *