An internet security company says cyber criminals are changing their tactics, using major global news stories to try to entrap consumers.
Symantec says events such as the FIFA World Cup are being used to encourage consumers to click on malicious links in junk emails, instead of the traditional lure of sex.
Business director Steve Martin says there was a 10-fold increase in the level of spam taking advantage of the World Cup compared with the last event in 2006.
Mr Martin says consumers should not open emails with scandalous or juicy headlines, as they are likely to come from cyber criminals.
He says the Commonwealth Games in India inOctober and the Rugby World Cup next year are both likely to be future targets.
