Latest "Dirty Dozen" Spam relaying countries

Sophos has published its latest report on the top twelve spam relaying countries over the last six months.

"The United States remains the worst offender, but is relaying substantially less of the world`s spam than it did a year ago. Sophos also found that over 60% of spam is now being generated from zombie computers - hijacked PCs infected by malware. This technique means that the culprits do not have to be in the same country as the innocent computers they are using to send their spam," says Brett Myroff, CEO of local Sophos distributor, NetXactics.

The top twelve spam relaying countries are as follows, with the figures in brackets denoting spam relayed by each country in the same period in 2004:

April - September, 2005

1. United States 26.35% (41.50%)
2. S Korea 19.73% (11.63%)
3. China (inc Hong Kong) 15.70% (8.90%)
4. France 3.46% (1.27%)
5. Brazil 2.67% (3.91%)
6. Canada 2.53% (7.06%)
7. Taiwan 2.22% (0.86%)
8. Spain 2.21% (1.04%)
9. Japan 2.02% (2.66%)
10. United Kingdom 1.55% (1.07%)
11. Pakistan 1.42% (New Entry)
12. Germany 1.26% (1.02%)
Others 18.88% (18.10%)

While the US, South Korea and China still account for over 50% of all spam, the US and Canada have done well to reduce their contribution to the problem. A sharp drop in spam sent from North American computers is the result of jail sentences for spammers, tighter legislation and better system security, says Sophos.

ISPs sharing knowledge on how to crack down on spammers, and authorities enforcing the CAN-SPAM legislation, have helped North America tackle spammers on their doorsteps. Some of the most prolific spammers have been forced to either quit the business or relocate overseas.

"Improved security in Windows XP SP2 is also helping home users to better define themselves agains computer hijacking. The concern now, however, is that spammers will turn to other Internet-based money-making schemes, such as spyware and identity theft malware," says Myroff.

Spammers are also turning to illegitimate providers to fuel their success, with their key associations being with virus writers and hackers. "They are simply feeling the impact of international awareness and country-specific legislation.

"As they are finding it harder to sell their goods via bulk mails, they are likely to turn to other criminal activities. The chart reveals that spammers and virus writers can exploit unprotected computers anywhere in the world. And, everyone has a part to play in the fight against spam," he adds.

Sophos recommends that computer users ensure they keep their anti-virus software up-to date, as well as using a properly configured firewall and installing the latest operating system security patches, to reduce the risk of their PCs becoming part of a zombie network. Businesses must also look to implement a best practice policy regarding email account usage.