World Cup spam kicks companies where it hurts

Firms' should adopt strict policy to stop networks from being attacked, VAR claims

PC World Business (PCWB) is advising businesses to adopt a policy on email usage to protect their networks from an influx of harmful World Cup spam.

According to a survey by PCWB, one in three office workers in the UK has reported receiving World Cup-related spam – including screensavers, wallpapers, video clips, fixture calendars and fantasy football competitions – which in many cases has contain viruses and spyware.

PCWB said it’s IT help desk has already received numerous calls from business customers trying to rid their networks of problems caused by their staff sending and receiving World Cup-related rogue emails. PCWB predicts that the problem will only increase as the tournament gains momentum in the coming weeks.

Richard Harrison, services director of PCWB, said: “Spammers and hackers are taking advantage of World Cup fever. They know that many football fanatics are dropping their guard this summer and opening suspect emails at work without evaluating the risks. The number of football-related emails will increase considerably over the coming weeks, many of which pose a serious threat to business IT networks."

"Businesses need to ensure that the appropriate security is in place to prevent potentially damaging emails from penetrating their network. Equally important is educating staff about sending and receiving personal emails. We don’t want to dampen the World Cup spirit – but these emails do pose a real threat so precautions need to be taken," he added.