Aol mailbox scam

The infamous AOL mailbox scam!

The AOL mailbox scam, also known as the "AOL CD scam" or "AOL CD-ROM scam," was a widespread phishing scam that targeted AOL (America Online) users in the late 1990s and early 2000s. Here's how it worked:

The Scam:

Scammers would send fake AOL CDs to unsuspecting victims, often with misleading or false information about the contents of the CD. The CDs were usually labeled as "AOL Trial" or "AOL Free Trial" and claimed to offer a free trial of AOL's services.

When the victim inserted the CD into their computer, it would install malware, such as viruses, Trojans, or spyware, which would compromise their system and steal sensitive information like login credentials, credit card numbers, and personal data.

The Goal:

The scammers' ultimate goal was to trick victims into signing up for AOL's services, which would result in the scammers earning a commission. They also aimed to steal sensitive information to use for fraudulent purposes.

How to Avoid Falling Victim:

To avoid falling prey to this scam, follow these tips:

  1. Be cautious of unsolicited CDs: Never insert a CD from an unknown source into your computer.
  2. Verify the authenticity: If you receive a CD from AOL, check the packaging for a legitimate AOL logo and contact information.
  3. Don't install software from unknown sources: Only install software from trusted sources, and always read the terms and conditions before installing.
  4. Keep your antivirus software up to date: Regularly update your antivirus software to detect and remove malware.
  5. Monitor your accounts: Regularly check your account statements and credit reports for suspicious activity.

AOL's Response:

AOL took steps to address the issue, including:

  1. Removing the CDs from circulation: AOL stopped producing the CDs and removed them from circulation.
  2. Warning users: AOL issued warnings to its users about the scam and provided guidance on how to avoid falling victim.
  3. Cooperating with law enforcement: AOL worked with law enforcement agencies to identify and prosecute the scammers.

Lessons Learned:

The AOL mailbox scam serves as a reminder to always be cautious when receiving unsolicited items, especially those that claim to offer free trials or services. It's essential to verify the authenticity of any software or services before installing or signing up, and to keep your antivirus software and operating system up to date.