Fake Google emails can lead to theft of personal data - SSO-AL2010-009

04 February 2010

Software and platforms affected

The following operating system platforms:

Windows (any version)

What is the problem?

Fake emails posing as job application responses from Google are being widely circulated. These emails have attachments containing malware, programs designed to steal personal, confidential and valuable information from computers (identity theft).

The subject of the email may contain wording the same as, or similar to:

Thank you from Google!

The from line of the email may contain wording the same as, or similar to:

resume-thanks@google.com

The body of the email may contain wording the same as, or similar to:

Thank you from Google!

We just received your resume and would like to thank you for your interest in
working at Google. This email confirms that your application has been submitted
for an open position.

Our staffing team will carefully assess your qualifications for the role(s) you
selected and others that may be a fit. Should there be a suitable match, we
will be sure to get in touch with you.

Click on the attached file to review your submitted application.

Have fun and thanks again for applying to Google!

Google Staffing

The emails contain a zip file attachment with malware which should not be opened.  Some anti-virus software may not yet detect this malware.

What we recommend you do

If you receive an email similar to the above emails, do not open the attachment to the email. Delete the email straight away.

If you have already clicked on the attachment, it is quite possible your computer may now be infected.  It is recommended you seek professional assistance in helping detect and remove the malware.

Make sure you have anti-virus software installed and keep it updated.

Disclaimer

This Alert has been prepared by AusCERT for the Department of Broadband, Communications and the Digital Economy.

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