BitDefender Uncovers Fraudulent Scheme Targeting JPMorgan Chase Customers

PRESS RELEASE

BUCHAREST, Romania - November 24, 2008 - BitDefender researchers detected a new significant wave of e-mail spam purporting to verify and reinforce the "new security measures" from Chase(tm) Online Banking Team.

The online form, which claims to be the financial institution's portal, spoofs several visual identification elements, such as the logo and general layout, but its domain appears to be registered in Turkey (.tk).

When users confirm via a PHP script, phishers are able to steal the data. The retrieved information could be employed to empty bank accounts, but also for subsequent spamming, phishing or vishing purposes.

"In terms of security, the repercussions of the critical economic context and unprecedented changes into the financial realm translated into highly increased spamming and phishing activities," said Vlad Vlceanu, Head of BitDefender Antispam Research. "For e-criminals, the general concern and panic are an ideal opportunity to gain access to sensitive information. Now more than ever, users should be extremely cautious when handling their financial and personal data throughout the Internet."

About BitDefender'
BitDefender is the creator of one of the industry's fastest and most effective lines of internationally certified security software. Since our inception in 2001, BitDefender has continued to raise the bar and set new standards in proactive threat prevention. Every day, BitDefender protects tens of millions of home and corporate users across the globe-giving them the peace of mind of knowing that their digital experiences will be secure. BitDefender solutions are distributed by a global network of value-added distribution and reseller partners in more than 100 countries worldwide. More information is available on our security solutions' site.

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North America Media Contact: Paul Hughes, Topaz Partners Phone: +1 781-404-2416 Email: [email protected]