Phishing with Google

IT security vendor Sophos has warned of a widespread phishing email campaign that tries to trick users out of money by pretending to be a cash prize from Gmail- Google's popular free email service.

The emails claim that the recipient has been randomly selected for the 500 US dollar cash prize and that the money can be automatically paid to them if they click on the embedded web link.

Part of the email reads: "You won $500! Gmail congratulates you! CONGRATULATIONS! YOU WON $500!"

It goes on to say, “Gmail gives members random cash prizes. Today, your account is randomly selected as the one of 12 top winners accounts who will get cash prizes from us. Please click the link below and follow instructions on our web site. Your money will be paid directly to your e-gold, PayPal, StormPay or MoneyBookers account.”

Users are then directed to click on a Gmail link, which takes them to a web page stating that there has been a problem in sending the payment. They are then asked to enter their details and pay a membership fee of US$8.60.

Graham Cluley, senior technology consultant for Sophos said the email was a fraud.

“Anyone tempted to try and collect it is in danger of walking straight into a trap set by these fraudsters," he said.

"People need to learn that there is no such thing as a free lunch and be much more wary of unsolicited email communications, whoever they may appear to come from."