It has been long known that it is always a bad idea to actually use the “opt out” links in the bottom of SPAM emails. Doing so will result in even more SPAM because they now know that the e-mail address is real and working. But recently a new reason not to use the opt out link has appeared.
TheRegister reports that one site is using a JavaScript bug in Internet Explorer to trigger the download and execution of a Trojan horse worm that totally compromises your Windows PC. They can then use you to send the next batch of SPAM, or steal your bank details, or use you as part of an online attack (Zombie).
This new problem only affects Windows users, Mac and Linux are as usual, not affected. Also not affected are users of Firefox or Opera web browsers.
There are lessons to be learned here.:
1. Don’t use Windows.
2. If you must use Windows, don’t use Internet Explorer.
3. If you must Windows and Internet Explorer, don’t click on opt out links, view web pages, or connect to the Internet.
4. Never click anything that arrives in a SPAM.
Regards
Franki
