A new Intelligence report from MessageLabs has warned that the intensity of seasonal spamming and malware is on the increase. Internet users should expect a whole host of malicious emails themed around Christmas, Halloween and other popular events. In addition, the report contains troubling evidence suggesting that spammers are running pre-emptive campaigns for events in 2010, including Valentine’s Day and the South African World Cup.

Phishing sites have also seen a shift in focus. UK customers have been targeted by fake sites claiming to offer tax rebates from HM Revenue and Customs. Tax-based phishing was up by 70% in October according to the report and on October 13th, HMRC phishing emails accounted for 81% of all UK spam. Other phishing efforts were largely centred around pharmaceutical-based products and software. Continue reading →