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Malware 'based on natural disasters'

Malicious software producers are increasingly using natural disasters to help distribute malware, it has been claimed.

In its latest security update, DailyBits notes the prevalence of an email claiming to carry an update on the earthquake in China.

The email recommends opening an attachment - which is actually malware - in order to receive the latest information on the disaster.

DailyBits advises: "Malware authors waste no time in crafting mails that seem to provide useful information relating to tragedies or natural disasters.

"The pattern has become noticeable in recent times and will be growing in future."

According to the resource, such emails, while malicious, can also help to let the recipient know what is occurring elsewhere in the world.

IT news site The Register adds that this is not the first time a major event has been used when distributing malware.

The site suggests that similar attacks followed the 2004 Asian tsunami, Hurricane Katrina in the US and the London bombings of 2005.

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