By Dan Ilett, 21 March 2006 09:20
NEWS
Microsoft is filing lawsuits against more than 50 Europeans as part of a crackdown on phishing scammers.
The software company said it had managed to get ISPs which host phishing websites to hand over information so it can identify the people behind them.
Four UK nationals are to face legal action, which could include "formal complaints, action in court and settlements against serious criminals", the company said.
Neil Holloway, Microsoft's European president, said: "If we live in a world where the internet is not safe to the user, they are less likely to use the technology."
He denied that the lawsuits are part of a publicity move to boost the company's image. "I don't think it's a about branding but about making sure our customers have a secure experience," he said.
Law firm Olswang is acting for Microsoft in the four UK lawsuits but has not named the individuals or the ISP involved.
Microsoft is taking action against 20 people in Turkey, 10 in France, seven in Spain, four in Morocco, four in the UK, four in Germany and one each in Austria, Egypt and Sweden.
The company said it will launch another 50 lawsuits by the end of June.
Microsoft said the move is part of its Global Phishing Enforcement Initiative, which it launched in Brussels on Monday.
Comments
There are 6 comments. Join the discussion
1. Andrew Waller
Isn't this the sort of thing governments are supposed to do?
I'm not fanatical Microsoft supporter but it seems to me a bit strange that governments go after Microsoft for anti-competitive practices and it's left to Microsoft to go after criminals.
2. Phil Schroeter
Interesting that it's Microsoft doing this - where is the UK government when it comes to protecting the public?
3. anonymous
Nice to see Microsoft doing something responsible instead of prematurily releasing software with major security flaws! I personally believe that any ISP or company supporting phishers or spammers should be both legally prosecuted and blocked for web access permanently. Governments are entirely to blame for lack of legislation.
4. Andrew Beaumont
This is more an issue of juristiction.
In all likelihood these were phishing offences carried out in the U.S. which Microsoft is pursuing.
In these situations (unless a significant number of offences or high value fraud has been carried out), it is unlikely that this will be pursued as the administrative costs of taking criminal action will be significant and the likelihood of conviction quite low.
Since Microsoft is a global corporation it has the ability to bridge gaps using civil procedures that are difficult for the FBI, etc.
There is also a lower burden of proof for civil action.
However, in all likelihood this is being done symbolically for PR purposes rather than anything else.
5. John Thompson
Long overdue and it could be argued that its something for governments to address - but well done Microsoft in 'just doing it' lets hope justice is swift, effective and a deterrant to others.
6. anonymous
I don't care if its done symbolically or for PR reasons - they are doing it. Is the govt not bothering to prosecute criminals for PR reasons? It is their responsibility, and they are doing nothing.
Congrats to Microsoft!