My spam folders are currently getting hammered by spam emails with subject lines claiming that I have unread messages. The bodies of the emails consist of a single clickable word or phrase such as “Surprise” or “Click here”.
Spammers often use such simple tactics to get people to click their links. And, given the amount of spam that hits inboxes all around the world, these tactics must pay off for those who distribute it.
Clicking the link in the emails opens a decidedly dodgy website that peddles dubious health-related products.
The spammers rely on the fact that at least a few recipients will click on the link out of curiosity or concern. And, apparently, some of those who do click go ahead and risk their financial security by purchasing products on the spam website with their credit cards.
If one of these spam messages hits your inbox, don’t help the spammer by clicking. Instead, hit your delete key.
Note that online criminals also use fake “Unread message” emails to trick people into visiting phishing websites or downloading malware.
A screenshot of one of the spam emails:
