RSSMicrosoft Files Suit Against 129 Phishers
By Ed Oswald | Published November 22, 2006, 1:00 PM
Microsoft said it is working with law enforcement to crack down on phishing, filing 129 suits across Europe and the Middle East. Already, at least five have settled, including four cases against teens that were settled out of court, and a two and a half year prison term for a Turkish man.
These phishing suits target those who attempt to trick Web users into disclosing personal banking information. The number of attacks involving bank information have doubled during the first half of this year, says security firm Symantec.
In 97 of the suits, Microsoft or its co-plaintiffs have provided information against the defendant. While many are criminal proceedings, some are civil lawsuits involving young people, who may not necessarily have criminal intent. In many cases, a 1,000-2,000 euro settlement is reached.
Of these cases, most of the criminal suits were filed in Turkey, followed by Germany and France. The majority of civil suits were filed in Britain, the company says.
While Microsoft is not the target of these attacks, it can claim damage to its image under the laws of some countries. Phishing is indeed affecting everyone - Gartner estimates that in just this year alone damages will be around $2.8 billion.
Shouldn't they be called phishermen?
Score: 0
Very smart of M$ to go after the phishers, it makes it seem like they actually care about people.
Score: 0
it's cheaper on Microsoft as well, in terms of advertisement
Score: 0
I love it.
Score: 0
While phishing may be a problem having MS sue people when it isn't MS thats being phished is scary. Not to single out MS as I have seen similar practices from other companies and don't agree with it one bit.
In the reverse, it's a bit like someone suing Honda because someone recklessly driving a Honda Civic crashed into them.
Score: 0
That comparison doesnt work at all. Because the phishers = the driver not honda.
Score: 0
you missed this part... "In the reverse,"
Score: 0
I don't think Microsoft should profit from it since the real victims aren't getting anything from it. What they should be doing is covering the cost of the legal action, then with the remainer + plus maybe a little token extra, support programmes to further stamp out phishing.
Its only a very small cost to them, and they gain as they will have a better public image.
Score: 0