A report by McAfee security researchers on August 3, 2011 revealed the United States government, multiple foreign governments and other large organizations were targeted by a five-year cyber-spying campaign called Operation Shady Rat.

Specific people within organizations who had the right level of access were sent a phishing email containing a link to malware  which automatically installed itself when the email was opened.

Organizations need to apply security in layers. It is important to protect email systems at the gateway and servers, apply updates in a timely manner, install protection on the workstation, and educate users. The last is often overlooked and can be the most important aspect, as no email security product can ensure 100% protection.

The use of email to attack computers makes it necessary to treat every email with a reasonable amount suspicion. Simply opening an email can cause your system to be accessed by hackers granting them full access to your information. The attacker can access contents of the drive, activate the cameras to spy on user, record key strokes and other items that can send shivers down your spine.

Ngenious can help you protect your systems and assist in training users. We can evaluate current configuration and make suggestions to reduce threats.