It looks like someone is using the MSN brand to pull off an e mail scam. One of our customers forwarded us this e mail. Our security and legal guys are on it. While I am pretty sure most developers wouldn’t fall for this scam, I am sure you know some people who may. Educate those around you not to fall for scams like this one. Moreover, you can learn more about how to verify a message is from Microsoft at http://www.microsoft.com/security/incident/authenticate_mail.mspx.
Dear Customer,
Due to malfunction of our database server some of the vital data related to your account has been lost.
Please, update your account information on our web site in 3 days or your account will be deleted.
James Dawson,
MSN Support Service
There is a pretty good section on MSN on Online Safety and Security (http://safety.msn.com/phishing/) with even some cool videos on ‘phishing’. It’s a good place to send all those who want to learn how to protect themselves against threats like this one.