Online criminals target social networking sites | NEWS.com.au

Online criminals target social networking sites | NEWS.com.au SOCIAL networking websites are fast becoming a key target for online fraud, according to a new report. The latest Symantec Internet Security Threat Report for the second half of 2007 reveals there were 87,963 "phishing hosts" for that period, an increase of 167 per cent from the first half of 2007. Phishing hosts act as fake websites, collecting information including login and password details from unsuspecting users. Symantec Australia managing director Craig Scroggie said social networking websites were a treasure trove of personal data, listing information such as birthdate, location and employment history. "(Users of these) websites are putting up a large amount of confidential information that is being used for fraudulent activity and financial gain," Mr Scroggie said. Personal information was collected and sold on the internet black market, for as little as $US1 ($1.08). "We're starting to see the area mature significantly," Mr Scroggie said. He added that some people used the proceeds of these sales to fund further attacks. Links Symantec Internet Security Report - http://www.symantec.com/business/theme...