Network Box warns of Valentine’s Day security threats

Businesses should prepare for an increase in the number of spam and cyber-attacks as Valentine’s Day approaches, according to managed security firm, Network Box.

Valentine’s Day, which falls on a Sunday this year, is increasingly being exploited by cyber-criminals to steal data and infect computers and networks.

Businesses need to be aware that there will be a spike in phishing attacks, malware and spam on and around Valentine’s Day.

Christmas 2009 saw a dramatic rise in the level of phishing attacks, which accounted for 57 per cent of all malware, and a similar peak is expected to be reached over the Valentine’s Day period, as cyber-criminals attempt to lure internet users with temptations such as e-cards from mystery admirers.

As Simon Heron, Internet Security Analyst, Network Box says: “Phishers are always looking for ways to catch people off guard and Valentine’s Day presents the perfect opportunity.

“Valentine’s Day is all about accepting messages from unknown admirers, which is extremely dangerous in security terms. We advise businesses to ensure that their systems are fully updated and patched, and that employees are made aware of the increased risk.

“Many people will think they can spot a fraudulent Valentine’s Day spam email, but will they be as aware of the risk when communicating over social networks and adding Valentine’s Day apps to their profiles?”