14 DAY TRIAL // Microsoft plans severe restrictions on security updates, that's why they introduced a new authentication system which reduces the ways in which people running pirated copies of the Windows operating system can receive software updates, including security fixes. These users will still be able to obtain fixes, but they will have their options limited.
Scammers are taking advantage of this move Microsoft is making and they sent e-mails bearing the spoofed address of [email protected] and with the heading "Microsoft Windows Update". The recepients of this message are asked to update and validate the Windows serial number and the customer's credit card information on a Web site.
If not willing to comply, "Windows will ask you to reactivate your serial number, and it will become invalid, oo you will lose any information on your computer. If you do not validate your serial number, your copy of Windows will be labeled as piracy".
The message says that the credit card will not be charged, but it is necessary to validate that Windows is legitimate. It's signed "Windows XP Activation Team."
The site linked in the message will try to install spyware on any PC used to access that URL, and this is a tehnique more phishers are embracing, adding spyware to their cheap tricks, installing key loggers and other system monitors on their victim's computers so they can gain access to personal and sensitive information.
It's good to know that Microsoft never sends unsolicited e-mails relating to security, and that there is no such thing as the Windows XP Activation Team.