"Computer intruders are a dangerous breed of criminal deviants, but we will remain vigilant in our efforts to protect our state's computer infrastructure from those who would unlawfully misuse technology," James said.
The e-mails carry the subject line "Internet Explorer 7 Downloads" and appear to come from admin@microsoft.com. They include a blue, Microsoft-style graphic offering a download of IE 7 beta 2. Clicking the graphic will download an executable file called IE 7.exe. James urges Missourians not to open the attachment. The state has received 80 messages from this user and are currently monitoring the activity.
DHS tips to protect against computer hackers:
- Train and make yourself and other network users aware of attack techniques and safe web browsing practices.
- Perform a thorough review of operational needs to determine the types of required attachments. Implement a default deny rule, allowing only those attachment types with a verifiable business need and associated approved software. Block all other attachments.
- Block e-mail that does not originate from an internal e-mail server and claims to be from the "same domain" (same .gov, .com, .mil, .org, etc) e-mail address.
