Fake Microsoft Update Email

Danger, Will Robinson! Be aware of a fake email that's going around, claiming to be from Microsoft Update.

I know all of you have been following my advice and patching your Windows computers every month like clockwork, and you may be tempted to get a leg up on the next round of patches due out on Oct. 14, but don't fall for this email.

There's a suspicious attachment to the email that contains a malicious executable (.exe) file. While most mail servers are set to block executables at the SMTP gateway, if yours doesn't, you could be at risk, especially if you're a fan of using the preview pane feature.

Sample header:

Subject: Security Update for OS Microsoft Windows
From: "Microsoft Official Update Center" <securityassurance@microsoft.com>

Delete and make sure your antivirus software is up to date. You've been warned.