McDonald's Survey Phishing Scam Steals Personal Info

An online survey claimed to be sent by McDonald's Survey Department promising cash on completion is fake and a phishing attempt that takes your personal information, including credit card details, said Sophos.

Sophos has claimed to uncover a widespread spam and phishing campaign targeting McDonald's customers. Users are asked to tread cautiously with an email with the subject line 'McDonald's Customer Survey'. The contents of the email is a survey on McDonald's food. The alleged McDonald's customer satisfaction survey campaign promises cash -- $90 -- upon successful completion of the McDonald's survey. This McDonald's survey is a phishing attack, part of a recent spam email campaign, claims Sophos.

Once the McDonald's survey has been completed, computer users are asked to provide their personal information, including their credit card number and security code, so that they can receive a $90 payment for taking the time to answer the questions.

"Exploiting online surveys is a popular way for scammers to make money as legitimate customer satisfaction surveys are increasingly common," said Graham Cluley, Senior Technology Consultant at Sophos.  "Although it's not unusual to be offered a reward or the chance of a prize for completing an online survey, a legitimate questionnaire will never ask you to part with your card details.  I'm afraid anyone hoping to receive the cash from this survey is more likely to have their account emptied by the spammers."

Sophos believes that some users may be more likely to hand over their information to the scammers behind the McDonald's phishing attack. It also recommends that companies protect themselves with a consolidated security solution which can defend against the threats of spam, hackers, spyware and viruses.

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