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OFT: Majority of malware is sent via e-mail

February 3rd 11:04 Cost Management 

Small businesses and individuals could be among those to take note of new statistics published by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT).

The regulator has warned that malware, such as online phishing scams, is becoming more "sophisticated".

Figures from a recently released OFT report have revealed that 73 per cent of all scams are now sent by e-mail.

The report also revealed that nine per cent of adults have been targeted by criminals on social networking websites.

Consumer minister Kevin Brennan said: "It is really important that people are on their guard and know that help is available as scams can bring real upset and misery to their victims."

John Fingleton, chief executive of the OFT, added: "Scammers are using ever more sophisticated and cunning tactics to dupe people out of their cash."

According to the report, some scams result in losses of more than £5,000 while more than half of those targeted have more than £50 stolen from their accounts
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