T 5.80 Hoaxes

A hoax is a message which contains a warning of new spectacular computer viruses or other IT problems, resulting in widespread panic, but which has no factual basis. Usually such messages are sent by e-mail. For example, it may warn of a computer virus which damages hardware or causes infection or damage simply through opening of an e-mail (not even an attachment) and is not detected by any anti-virus software. Alongside this warning the recipient is requested to pass on the message to friends and acquaintances. Such a hoax is even more effective if a false address, such as that of a well-known manufacturer, is given for the sender.

Such hoaxes should not be confused with computer viruses, which really can tamper with IT systems. It is simply a misleading message that can be deleted without causing any damage, which is what you should do. The only damage caused by a hoax is the recipient's uncertainty and irritation, and possibly the time and money spent on forwarding the hoax.

A whole range of such hoax messages have afflicted mobile phone users, whereby users have been warned that inputting certain key combinations or dialling certain call numbers on mobile phones could result in conversations being tapped or calls being charged to other persons. Because such messages contain references to particular mobile phone brands and a few technical terms, they give the impression of being serious messages. Such rumours have a way of persisting users find them disconcerting.

Example:

In the spring of 2000 the following false alarms were going the rounds by e-mail (and in some cases even by letter):

"If you receive a message on your mobile phone telling you to call back number 0141-455xxx, under no circumstances should you do so. Otherwise your phone charges will shoot up enormously."

This information was published by the "Central Office for the Suppression of Fraudulent Practices" (Office Central de Repression du Banditisme). ..."