Phishing Attacks in July Hit 12-Month High: RSA

As per the monthly online fraud report from security vendor RSA, there was only 1.5% increase in online phishing attacks in July 2009 in comparison of the previous month (June). However, still the figures were the highest in 12 months.

There was 7% increase in the number of fast-flux attacks during the month, while the number of standard phishing assaults slumped by 5%. It is noted that for the three months in succession (May-July) the fast-flux assaults have been outperforming the number of standard phishing attacks, and the trend was also seen in the statistics of hosting methods.

Although phishing attacks surged slightly in July 2009, the number of brands that were targeted declined by 9%, with 10 new brands phished for the first time. In total, 104 brands suffered fewer than five phishing attacks during the month, equating to a share of 55%, indicating a decline from 63% registered in June, stated the report.

Moreover, among the top ten hosting countries, US-hosted rate of attacks fell as much as 30% to 42% in July. On the contrary, Italy's share surged by 5% and it hosted 26% of top ten's attacks. The UK, with a share of 9%, made it back to the list of hosting countries after remaining absent for two months, and was followed by Germany (8%).

The figures released by RSA indicate that although lesser number of brands was phished in July, many of them endured an increased number of phishing attacks in comparison of June. These attacks can be accredited to Rock Phish Gang that comprised most of the fast-flux assaults. The gang is famous for launching several targeted phishing assaults against a smaller number of brands.

In addition to this, the report also stated that online crime is continuously evolving and no discrimination is being done by cyber criminals towards any organization or individual. Online attacks, comprising pharming, trojans and phishing, represent one of the sophisticated and well-organized technological crimes globally.

Cyber criminals are busy day and night in stealing identities, credit card details, online credentials, and any other detail that they can easily convert into money. They attack organizations in apparently all sectors as well as any person who uses Internet at home or at work.

Related article: Phishing With A Redirector Code

» SPAMfighter News - 9/7/2009